Polish Cabbage Roll Soup (Zupa Gołąbkowa)

If you’ve ever craved the comforting flavors of traditional Polish gołąbki (stuffed cabbage rolls) but found yourself short on time or energy, then Polish Cabbage Roll Soup, or Zupa Gołąbkowa, is your new best friend. This hearty, soul-warming dish captures all the essence of the classic rolls in a fraction of the time.​The Good Hearted Woman+3Polish Your Kitchen+3CookINPolish – Polish Food Recipes+3

🥣 What Is Zupa Gołąbkowa?

Zupa Gołąbkowa translates to “cabbage roll soup” and is essentially an unstuffed version of the beloved gołąbki. Instead of wrapping a meat and rice mixture in cabbage leaves, everything is chopped and simmered together in a savory tomato-based broth. It’s a practical and equally delicious alternative that has gained popularity for its simplicity and comforting taste.​Polish Foodies+1Polish Your Kitchen+1

🛒 Ingredients

To prepare this delightful soup, you’ll need:

• 1 tablespoon oil or lard
• 400g (15 oz) ground pork
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 5-6 peppercorns and allspice berries
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 parsley root or parsnip, peeled and sliced
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 450ml (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 liters (8 cups) water or stock
• 1/4 cup white rice
• 1/4 head of medium cabbage, chopped (about 5 cups)​The Good Hearted Woman+3Polish Your Kitchen+3Pinch me, I’m eating+3CookINPolish – Polish Food Recipes

Pro Tip: For added depth of flavor, consider using a mix of ground pork and beef, and don’t shy away from adding a touch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky undertone.​

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large stockpot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the ground pork and minced garlic, cooking until the meat is browned. Stir in the bay leaves, peppercorns, allspice berries, salt, and black pepper.​Polish Your Kitchen
2. Add Vegetables and Tomato Base: Incorporate the sliced carrots and parsley root into the pot. Stir in the tomato paste and tomato sauce, mixing well to combine. Pour in the water or stock, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.​Polish Your Kitchen
3. Simmer and Cook Rice: Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes. Add the white rice, continuing to simmer until the rice is fully cooked, following the package instructions for timing.​
4. Add Cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage, cooking for an additional 5 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.​
5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed.​

Pro Tip: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. It’s also freezer-friendly, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.​Serving Dumplings

🍽 Serving Suggestions

Serve your Zupa Gołąbkowa hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley for added freshness. Pair it with a slice of crusty rye bread to soak up the flavorful broth.​Polish Foodies+2CookINPolish – Polish Food Recipes+2Polish Your Kitchen+2

📝 Final Thoughts

Zupa Gołąbkowa is a testament to the adaptability of traditional recipes, offering the beloved flavors of gołąbki in a convenient and equally satisfying form. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal to warm you on a cold day or a taste of Polish comfort food, this cabbage roll soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.​CookINPolish – Polish Food Recipes

Smacznego! (Enjoy your meal!)