Slow Cooker Golumpki Soup is a delicious, hearty dish inspired by the traditional Polish stuffed cabbage rolls known as Golumpki (or Gołąbki). This soup takes all the comforting flavors of the original—ground meat, cabbage, rice, and a savory tomato broth—and turns it into an easy, one-pot meal that you can prepare in your slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this soup is full of rich flavors and satisfying textures.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Notes
• Variations
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups green cabbage (chopped)
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are softened. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

1. Transfer the cooked beef mixture to your slow cooker.
2. Add the chopped cabbage, uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, salt, black pepper, paprika, dried thyme, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar (if using).
3. Stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

1. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the rice is tender and the cabbage is soft.
2. Stir occasionally if possible, to ensure the rice doesn’t clump together and everything is well combined.

Step 4: Serve

1. Once cooked, remove the bay leaves and discard.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Notes

• Meat: You can use a combination of ground beef and ground pork for a more authentic flavor, or substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Rice: Long-grain white rice works well, but you can also use brown rice—just note that it may require additional cooking time.
• Tomato Base: Adjust the amount of tomato sauce and diced tomatoes to your preference for a thicker or thinner soup. You can also add a splash of vinegar for a slightly tangy flavor.

Variations

Golumpki Soup with Bacon

• Add 1/2 cup of chopped bacon to the skillet when browning the ground beef for a smoky flavor that complements the cabbage and tomato broth.

Spicy Golumpki Soup

• Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the slow cooker for a spicy kick. This adds a nice heat that contrasts with the hearty flavors.

Vegetarian Golumpki Soup

• Replace the ground beef with 2 cups of chopped mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version of this comforting soup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?

Yes! Slow Cooker Golumpki Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop until warmed through.

Can I Use Instant Rice?

If you prefer to use instant rice, add it during the last hour of cooking rather than at the beginning. Instant rice will cook much faster than traditional long-grain rice and will absorb less liquid.

Slow Cooker Golumpki Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that brings the traditional flavors of Polish stuffed cabbage rolls to your table with minimal effort. This easy, one-pot soup is packed with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights, and will warm you up on chilly days. Customize it with different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy the delicious, homestyle comfort of this classic dish.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every spoonful of this hearty Golumpki Soup!