Name: Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup: 6 Hearty Reasons to Love It
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)

Jump to Recipe

Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup is a delightful and hearty dish inspired by traditional Polish cabbage rolls. This comforting soup is filled with ground beef, fresh cabbage, and rice, all simmered in a rich tomato base. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a cold day, perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Let’s dive into this comforting bowl of goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup

This traditional Polish stuffed cabbage soup is not only delicious but also packed with benefits. Here are a few reasons to love it:

It’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze.
Rich in flavors with a perfect balance of savory and sweet.
Hearty and filling, it satisfies even the biggest appetites.
Great for meal prep; leftovers taste even better the next day.
Can easily be customized with various meats or vegetables.
Offers nutritional benefits, including protein and fiber.

This soup is a true comfort food cabbage roll soup that brings family together and warms your heart.

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.

Pro Tips for the Best Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh cabbage for the best texture and flavor.
For a gluten-free option, ensure your broth is gluten-free.
Simmer longer for a deeper flavor profile.

Best Ways to Serve Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup

This soup is delightful on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions:

Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
Top with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.

How to Store and Reheat Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup

To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw if frozen and heat on the stovetop until warmed through. This makes it an ideal easy stuffed cabbage soup recipe for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup

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

The secret lies in using quality ingredients and allowing the flavors to meld together during the simmering process, resulting in a rich and satisfying golabki soup. Learn more about the importance of quality ingredients.

Can I make Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead enhances the flavor. Just store it properly, and it will taste even better the next day.

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

Common mistakes include undercooking the rice and not seasoning enough. Ensure the rice is fully cooked and adjust seasoning to taste for the best results.

Variations of Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Add beans for extra protein and texture.
Incorporate different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

With its hearty ingredients and rich flavor, Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this comforting meal today!