Golumpki Soup Recipe
If you love the cozy, nostalgic flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls but want the comfort of a big, hearty soup, Golumpki Soup is about to become your new favorite. Imagine all the savory, tomato-kissed notes of traditional Polish golumpki, just in a form that you can ladle into a bowl and enjoy with a slice of crusty bread. It’s a deeply satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly nights, family gatherings, or anytime you crave something deliciously homemade with very little fuss. This recipe for Golumpki Soup brings together tender cabbage, juicy beef, aromatic herbs, and perfectly cooked rice in a tomato-rich broth—pure comfort, made simple.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Golumpki Soup lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient adds something special, from richness to color to a touch of homey nostalgia. Here’s what you’ll need—and exactly why you need it.
- Ground Beef: The hearty base of the soup, providing meaty depth and classic flavor.
- Ground Pork (optional): For extra juiciness and a subtle sweetness; feel free to substitute with more beef or omit entirely.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics for maximum flavor.
- Onion: Essential for savoriness and a touch of natural sweetness as it caramelizes.
- Garlic: Gives the soup a fragrant, warming kick that makes every spoonful irresistible.
- Green Cabbage: The heart of the dish, offering satisfying texture and that signature stuffed cabbage taste.
- White Rice: Absorbs the broth, thickens the soup, and gives each bite a comforting toothsome feel.
- Tomato Sauce: Delivers richness, color, and a beautiful tangy punch.
- Diced Tomatoes: Brings texture and pops of bright tomato flavor, which marry perfectly with the beef.
- Beef Broth: The flavor backbone, enhancing the savory notes and making the soup extra cozy.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds complexity and a subtle hint of umami you can’t quite put your finger on.
- Dried Thyme: Offers earthy, herbal notes that round out the soup’s flavor profile.
- Paprika: Brings mild warmth and a lovely, appetizing color.
- Dried Oregano: Lends a Mediterranean flair, tying together the bright and savory ingredients.
- Salt and Pepper: Crucial for bringing all the flavors into balance—season to taste!
- Chopped Fresh Parsley: A burst of freshness and vibrant color for the finishing touch.
How to Make Golumpki Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, and let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes until it’s soft and slightly translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute—this step unlocks the flavors that will infuse every spoonful of your Golumpki Soup.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add your ground beef and, if you like, ground pork straight into the pot. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook, stirring occasionally, until nicely browned. Take a moment to drain off any excess fat—this keeps the soup rich but not greasy.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage
Stir in the chopped green cabbage and cook for 5 minutes. As the cabbage softens, it starts to soak up all those beefy juices and aromatic goodness. Your kitchen will already start smelling amazing!
Step 4: Build the Soup Base
Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (including all their juices!), and beef broth. Add the uncooked rice, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, paprika, oregano, plus a good pinch of salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir so it’s evenly combined—this is where Golumpki Soup really comes together.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally so the rice doesn’t stick. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is tender and the cabbage melts delicately into the broth. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot and ladle up the comfort!
How to Serve Golumpki Soup
Garnishes
Right before you serve, sprinkle a generous handful of chopped fresh parsley on top. It adds beautiful color and a burst of freshness that cuts through the hearty flavors of Golumpki Soup. For a little zing, you could also try a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of mild shredded cheese.
Side Dishes
This soup is satisfying all by itself, but pairing it with a slice of buttered rye bread or a warm, crusty baguette makes the meal even more memorable. If you want a true Polish experience, serve Golumpki Soup alongside pickled vegetables or a crisp cucumber salad for a bright, crunchy contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful by serving Golumpki Soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a stunning table presentation, or portion it into mini soup crocks for cozy individual servings at casual get-togethers. For a lighter vibe, try ladling it over lightly steamed cauliflower rice—this twist keeps it lower in carbs but still totally soul-warming.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Golumpki Soup is one of those magical dishes that taste even better the next day. Allow leftovers to cool, then transfer them to airtight containers. Store in the fridge, where the soup will keep beautifully for up to four days. The flavors meld and intensify overnight, making for a super easy reheat-and-eat lunch or dinner.
Freezing
Planning ahead? Golumpki Soup freezes wonderfully. Let it cool completely first, then ladle into freezer-safe containers, leaving an inch of headspace to allow for expansion. Label and freeze for up to three months. When you’re in the mood for a quick, hearty meal, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.
Reheating
To reheat, transfer the desired amount of soup to a saucepan and warm gently over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened considerably in the fridge or freezer, just add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. Microwaving also works in a pinch—just use a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely to avoid splatters.
FAQs
Can I make Golumpki Soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just swap the ground meat for plant-based crumbles or simply increase the cabbage and vegetables. Use vegetable broth in place of beef broth, and you’ll still enjoy all the traditional flavors you love.
What can I use instead of white rice?
If you prefer something different or want a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice is a fantastic substitute. Brown rice, barley, or even small pasta shapes work well, though you may need to adjust the simmering time for proper tenderness.
How spicy is Golumpki Soup?
This recipe is rich and aromatic but not spicy. If you enjoy a little heat, try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the onion and garlic, or serve with a side of hot sauce.
Can I cook Golumpki Soup in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Brown the meat first, then add all the ingredients (except parsley) to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Stir in fresh parsley just before serving for that extra pop.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes! The classic recipe for Golumpki Soup is naturally gluten-free. Always double-check your broth and Worcestershire sauce labels to ensure they’re safe if you or your guests are sensitive.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about a big pot of Golumpki Soup simmering on the stove—it’s homey, hearty, and sure to make everyone feel welcome at your table. If you’ve never tried this Polish-inspired comfort food classic, now’s the perfect time. Give it a go, and enjoy the soothing, savory flavors in every bowl!
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Golumpki Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Golumpki Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls in a delicious soup form. This Polish-inspired soup is packed with ground beef, cabbage, rice, and savory seasonings, making it a satisfying meal for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork (optional, or use all beef)
Soup Base:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups green cabbage (chopped)
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large soup pot. Sauté onion until softened, then add garlic and cook briefly.
- Cook Meat: Add ground beef and pork, if using. Brown the meat, breaking it apart.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in cabbage, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, rice, broth, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Combine well.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 25–30 minutes until rice is tender.
- Adjust and Garnish: Season to taste. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Notes
- For a lower-carb version, omit the rice or substitute with cauliflower rice.
- This soup freezes well—let it cool completely before storing in airtight containers.
- Serve with crusty bread for a hearty meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Polish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
