Slow Cooker Golumpki Soup

Slow Cooker Golumpki Soup is a hearty and comforting dish inspired by traditional Polish stuffed cabbage rolls (golumpki or gołąbki). This soup takes all the classic flavors of tender cabbage, ground beef, and tangy tomato sauce and transforms them into an easy, warming meal. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy all the comfort without the hassle of rolling cabbage leaves. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete, satisfying dinner.

Table of Contents

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

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 head green cabbage (chopped)
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

1. In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a spoon, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Drain any excess fat and transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped cabbage, uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, salt, black pepper, and bay leaves to the slow cooker.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the cabbage is tender and the rice is cooked through.
2. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Step 4: Serve

• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread or rolls.

Cooking Notes

• Cabbage: You can use either green or savoy cabbage for this recipe. Make sure to chop it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Rice: Uncooked white rice works best, but you can also use brown rice. If using brown rice, extend the cooking time by 1 hour to ensure the rice is tender.
• Broth: Beef broth adds a rich flavor to the soup, but you can substitute it with vegetable broth if desired.

Variations

Vegetarian Golumpki Soup

• Replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat substitute or use lentils for a vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Spicy Golumpki Soup

• Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the soup for a bit of heat.

Golumpki Stew

• For a thicker stew-like consistency, reduce the amount of beef broth to 3 cups. This will result in a heartier dish that’s perfect for cold days.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?

Yes, this soup is perfect for making ahead of time. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I Freeze Golumpki Soup?

Absolutely. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the slow cooker.

Can I Use Pre-Cooked Rice?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked rice, but add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking and becoming mushy.

What Should I Serve With Golumpki Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, rolls, or even a simple side salad. A dollop of sour cream on top also adds a nice tangy flavor.

Slow Cooker Golumpki Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings all the classic flavors of Polish stuffed cabbage rolls into an easy, fuss-free soup. With tender cabbage, hearty beef, and a savory tomato broth, this soup is perfect for a cozy dinner that the whole family will love. Enjoy the simplicity and taste of this traditional favorite, made even easier with the help of your slow cooker.

Feel free to experiment with different variations and enjoy a warm, hearty bowl of comfort any time!