Polish cuisine is a treasure trove of comfort food, and at the heart of this culinary tradition lies the Stuffed Cabbage Roll. Known locally as Gołąbki, which amusingly translates to ‘little pigeons’, these rolls are a testament to the simplicity and richness of Polish cooking. Made with a mix of ground meat, rice, and spices wrapped in cabbage leaves, then simmered in a tomato-based sauce, they offer a symphony of flavors. This dish not only warms the stomach but also the heart, embodying the essence of home cooking. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious foodie, making Gołąbki is a delightful journey into Polish heritage.
Ingredients
- 12 large cabbage leaves
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for added flavor)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes or until soft. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix the ground beef, ground pork, cooked rice, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
How to Prepare
- Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a cutting board. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf. Fold in the sides and roll up the leaf to encase the filling. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the rolls and cook until browned on all sides.
- Pour half of the tomato sauce and all the beef broth into a baking dish. Place the rolls in the dish, then cover with the remaining tomato sauce.
- Cover with foil and bake for about 1 hour, until the meat is cooked through.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Cook time: 1 hour
- Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
FAQs
- Can I use only beef or pork? Yes, you can use either, but the combination enhances the flavor.
- How do I prevent the rolls from falling apart? Ensure the cabbage leaves are blanched until pliable and secure the rolls with toothpicks if necessary.
- Can I make this vegetarian? Absolutely, substitute the meat with a mix of lentils, mushrooms, and rice.
- How long can I store them? Gołąbki can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Can I cook them in a slow cooker? Yes, arrange the rolls in the slow cooker, cover with sauce, and cook on low for 6-8 hours.