Golumpki soup, often referred to as "stuffed cabbage soup," is a warm and hearty dish that combines the comforting elements of stuffed cabbage rolls in a simple, easy-to-make soup. It’s a perfect meal for chilly evenings, where you want something filling but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The rich flavors of tender cabbage, ground meat, and rice blend harmoniously in a tangy tomato broth, making it a dish that’s loved across generations. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a beginner, this recipe is approachable, full of flavor, and perfect for cozy family dinners.
If you’ve ever had Golumpki (the Polish dish), you’ll know that it typically involves wrapping a flavorful filling of meat, rice, and seasonings in cabbage leaves. This soup takes that classic idea and turns it into a one-pot wonder. So, if you’re craving a taste of Eastern European comfort food, this Golumpki soup recipe will deliver all the satisfying flavors you’re looking for!
Golumpki Soup Easy Recipe
Let’s dive into the full recipe for this scrumptious soup that brings the flavors of stuffed cabbage into a more convenient form. The simplicity of the ingredients and the straightforward cooking process makes it perfect for a weeknight meal, or for batch cooking ahead of time.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you’ll need to make a comforting pot of Golumpki soup:
- Ground Meat (1 lb): Typically, ground beef is used, but you can mix beef and pork, or even use turkey for a lighter version.
- Cabbage (half a medium head, chopped): Fresh cabbage is essential for that distinct flavor and texture.
- Rice (1/2 cup): Use white or brown rice, depending on your preference. Rice will soak up the soup’s flavors and provide heartiness.
- Onion (1 large, chopped): Adds depth and sweetness to the broth.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Garlic adds a fragrant punch to the soup’s base.
- Tomato Sauce (2 cups): Gives the soup that classic tangy base and adds rich color.
- Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): Adds texture and a bit of acidity to balance the richness.
- Beef Broth (4 cups): For the soup base, though chicken broth works too if you prefer a lighter taste.
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Seasonings
- Salt (1 teaspoon)
- Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
- Bay Leaves (2)
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds depth and a slight smoky flavor.
- Thyme (1 teaspoon): A herb that complements the cabbage beautifully.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon, optional): Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Olive Oil (for sautéing)
Cooking Instructions
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Golumpki soup:
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Brown The Ground Meat
- In a large pot, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat (beef, pork, or turkey) and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. This should take around 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- To the pot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onions become soft and translucent. This builds the savory base of your soup.
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Add The Cabbage
- Stir in the chopped cabbage. It may seem like a lot at first, but it will wilt down as it cooks. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the cabbage begins to soften.
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Combine The Broth And Tomatoes
- Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juices), and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine. This is where the soup starts to come together.
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Season The Soup
- Stir in the seasonings: salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and bay leaves. You can also add sugar here to cut the acidity from the tomatoes, if you prefer a sweeter broth.
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Simmer
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
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Cook The Rice
- If you’re using uncooked rice, you can add it directly to the soup during the last 20 minutes of simmering. Alternatively, you can cook the rice separately and add it to the soup once it’s done.
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Final Touches
- Once the soup is fully cooked, taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Remove the bay leaves and serve hot.
Ingredient Insights
- Cabbage: Cabbage is the star of the dish. Not only is it a key ingredient in Golumpki, but it also provides fiber, vitamins, and a satisfying crunch. When cooking, cabbage releases its natural sweetness, which balances well with the tangy tomato broth.
- Ground Meat: While ground beef is traditional, using a mix of pork and beef can add a richer flavor profile. If you’re looking for a healthier version, turkey or chicken can also be substituted without sacrificing flavor.
- Rice: Rice not only adds texture but also helps thicken the soup as it absorbs the flavorful broth. Brown rice can be used for a heartier dish, but keep in mind it will take longer to cook than white rice.
- Tomatoes: The canned diced tomatoes give the soup a slight acidity, while the tomato sauce enriches the broth. Together, they create a savory, tangy base that complements the sweetness of the cabbage.
- Herbs and Spices: The addition of bay leaves, paprika, thyme, and garlic gives this soup its warm and comforting aroma. These spices enhance the flavor without overpowering the natural ingredients.
Expert Tips
- Make it Ahead: Golumpki soup is even better the next day! The flavors continue to meld and deepen overnight, so feel free to make it a day ahead and let it sit in the fridge.
- Don’t Skip the Rice: While you can omit the rice, it’s the secret ingredient that makes this dish hearty. If you’re watching carbs, consider using cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
- Simmer Low and Slow: For the best flavor, allow the soup to simmer on low for an extended period. The longer it simmers, the more the ingredients will break down, and the flavors will intensify.
- Balance the Acidity: If the soup tastes too acidic from the tomatoes, a small pinch of sugar can help balance the flavor.
- Add More Vegetables: For an even heartier soup, feel free to add extra vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
Recipe Variations
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Vegetarian Golumpki Soup
- Replace the ground meat with plant-based crumbles or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and omit the rice if you’re following a low-carb or gluten-free diet.
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Spicy Golumpki Soup
- Add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to give the soup a little heat.
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Smoked Golumpki Soup
- For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika, or add smoked sausage along with the ground meat.
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Low-Carb Golumpki Soup
- Instead of rice, try cauliflower rice or simply skip the rice entirely for a low-carb version of this dish.
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Tomato-Free Golumpki Soup
- If you’re not a fan of tomatoes, you can make the soup with a broth base (chicken or beef), adding a little vinegar for the tangy flavor.
Final Words
Golumpki soup is the epitome of comfort food. It’s a dish that combines rich, hearty flavors with the fresh taste of cabbage, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family, entertaining friends, or looking for a meal to enjoy over several days, this recipe has you covered. The best part? It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with flavors that will keep you coming back for more. So, the next time you’re craving a filling, satisfying meal, give this Golumpki soup a try-you won’t regret it.