Name: Delicious Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Polish
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (or half beef and pork mix); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 6 cups green cabbage (chopped); 1 cup white rice (uncooked); 1 carrot (diced); 28 oz crushed tomatoes; 15 oz tomato sauce; 6 cups beef broth; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional); salt and pepper (to taste)

Introduction

Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup is a delightful twist on the beloved traditional dish, Gołąbki, bringing the comfort of home-cooked meals directly to your table. This hearty, tomato-based soup is inspired by Polish cabbage rolls and features a rich blend of ground beef, cabbage, and rice. With each spoonful, you’ll experience a warmth that soothes the soul, making it perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup

This Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly nutritious and satisfying. Here are a few reasons why it stands out:

It’s a comforting bowl of warmth, perfect for cold weather.
Loaded with protein from the ground beef, making it hearty and filling.
Versatile and adaptable, allowing for easy variations and substitutions.
Offers a unique taste of Polish cuisine stuffed cabbage soup.
This recipe is easy to follow, making it a great choice for beginners.
It’s a family-friendly meal, loved by both kids and adults.

With its comforting nature and rich flavors, it’s easy to see why this is a top choice in any household.

Ingredients for Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup

Gather these items:

1 lb ground beef (or half beef and pork mix)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion (chopped)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
6 cups green cabbage (chopped)
1 cup white rice (uncooked)
1 carrot (diced)
28 oz crushed tomatoes
15 oz tomato sauce
6 cups beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf
1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
salt and pepper (to taste)

How to Make Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté onions until translucent, then add garlic.
Step 2: Add ground beef and cook until browned. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Stir in chopped cabbage, diced carrot, and uncooked rice.
Step 4: Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix in Worcestershire, paprika, thyme, and bay leaf.
Step 5: Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30–40 minutes until rice and cabbage are tender.
Step 6: Adjust seasoning to taste and remove bay leaf before serving.

Delicious Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup Recipe - Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup

Keep these in mind:

Allow the soup to simmer longer for richer flavors.
Use fresh ingredients to enhance the soup’s flavor.
For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms.

Best Ways to Serve Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup

This hearty soup can be enjoyed in several ways:

Serve with a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess.
Pair with crusty bread for dipping.
Enjoy it with a side of traditional Polish rye bread.

How to Store and Reheat Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup

To store leftover soup, let it cool and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it has thickened. This is great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dish whenever you desire.

Frequently Asked Questions About Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup

What’s the secret to perfect Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup?

The secret lies in the quality of your ingredients and letting the soup simmer to develop its flavors. Using fresh cabbage and a good beef broth can enhance the overall taste significantly.

Can I make Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a quick meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup?

Common mistakes include overcooking the vegetables or not seasoning enough. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to ensure a flavorful dish.

Variations of Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with your Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup:

Swap out beef for turkey or a vegetarian option like tofu.
Add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
Spice it up with chili flakes if you prefer a kick.

With these variations, you can enjoy different flavors while staying true to the essence of this traditional Polish dish.

For more delicious recipes, check out Small Batch Apple Pumpkin Muffins and Hungarian Goulash Beef Stew. You might also enjoy Creamy Garlic Crab Stuffed Mushrooms for a delightful appetizer.

For more information on the health benefits of cabbage, visit Healthline.