GOLOMBKI

Golombki, also known as Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, is a traditional Polish dish that is both hearty and comforting. This beloved recipe involves tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices, all slowly baked in a tangy tomato sauce. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s rich in taste and texture. Golombki is often served at family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions, making it a dish steeped in tradition and love. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the comforting flavors of cabbage, meat, and tomato in a warm, satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• For the Cabbage Rolls:
  • 1 large head of cabbage
  • 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1/2 cup uncooked rice
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• For the Tomato Sauce:
  • 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or marjoram (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the baking dish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the cabbage leaves: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and gently place the head into the boiling water. After about 2-3 minutes, the outer leaves will start to loosen. Use tongs to carefully remove the softened leaves and set them aside on a plate. Continue this process until you have about 12-15 leaves. Let them cool slightly.
2. Cook the rice: Cook the rice according to package instructions until it’s just tender. Set aside to cool.
3. Make the filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
4. Assemble the cabbage rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the meat mixture at the center of the leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly, starting from the stem end. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
5. Prepare the tomato sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme or marjoram (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
6. Bake the Golombki: Grease a large baking dish with butter. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish, snugly fitting them in a single layer. Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the rolls, covering them completely. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together. Remove the foil during the last 20 minutes of baking to allow the top to slightly brown.
8. Serve: Serve the Golombki hot, spooning some of the tomato sauce over the top of each roll. They are traditionally served with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Golombki is a dish rich in tradition and flavor, offering a taste of Polish heritage in every bite. The tender cabbage leaves, savory meat filling, and flavorful tomato sauce come together to create a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying, perfect for sharing with loved ones.