Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, finely chopped onion, garlic, egg, and seasonings (salt, pepper, paprika).
2. Mix everything thoroughly by hand or spoon until evenly blended. Don’t overmix — just enough to bind the ingredients.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

1. Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a cutting board.
2. Place 2–3 tablespoons of the meat filling near the base of the leaf.
3. Fold the bottom over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll it up like a burrito. Repeat for all the rolls.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. In a saucepan, heat oil or butter and sauté the onion until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, water or stock, sugar, and bay leaf.
4. Let it simmer gently for 10–15 minutes. Adjust salt, pepper, and acidity (with sugar or vinegar) to your taste.

Step 5: Cook the Rolls

There are two traditional methods: Stovetop or Baked.

Stovetop Method:

1. Line the bottom of a large pot with leftover cabbage leaves to prevent burning.
2. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the pot in layers.
3. Pour the tomato sauce over the rolls.
4. Cover and simmer over low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the rolls are tender and fully cooked.

Oven-Baked Method:

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Place a layer of cabbage rolls in a deep baking dish.
3. Pour the tomato sauce over the rolls.
4. Cover with foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, removing foil during the last 20 minutes for a slightly caramelized top.

Serving Suggestions

Gołąbki are traditionally served hot, often with:

• A dollop of sour cream
• Fresh dill or parsley
• Crusty rye bread or boiled potatoes on the side

Tips and Variations

• Meat Options: Substitute pork with beef, turkey, or a vegetarian option using mushrooms and lentils.
• Rice Alternatives: Use barley or quinoa for a twist.
• Make Ahead: Gołąbki taste even better the next day. Refrigerate or freeze leftovers in airtight containers.
• Spice It Up: Add chili flakes or smoked paprika for a modern touch.

Conclusion

Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are more than just a meal—they’re a link to generations of culinary tradition. Whether served at a holiday table or enjoyed as a cozy weeknight dinner, Gołąbki deliver both nourishment and nostalgia. With patience and a few simple ingredients, you can recreate the soul of Polish home cooking in your own kitchen.

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