Golombki, also known as stuffed cabbage rolls, is a traditional Polish dish that consists of tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and seasonings, then slowly simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Using a slow cooker to prepare Golombki makes the process even easier, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over several hours of gentle cooking. This comforting dish is perfect for a hearty family dinner, and the leftovers taste even better the next day. Serve it with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of green cabbage
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1/2 cup beef broth
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core of the cabbage. Submerge the cabbage head in the boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the outer leaves are softened and pliable. Remove the cabbage from the pot and carefully peel off the leaves. Repeat as necessary until you have about 12-14 large leaves. Set the leaves aside to cool.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Assemble the Rolls: Place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface with the stem end facing you. Place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll the leaf from the stem end to the top, enclosing the filling completely. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, brown sugar, white vinegar, and beef broth.
- Layer in the Slow Cooker: Pour a small amount of the tomato sauce mixture into the bottom of the slow cooker. Place a layer of cabbage rolls seam-side down on top of the sauce. Pour some of the sauce over the rolls, then add another layer of cabbage rolls. Continue layering until all the rolls are in the slow cooker, finishing with a layer of sauce on top.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is fully cooked.
- Serve: Serve the Golombki hot, spooning some of the tomato sauce over the top. Pair with mashed potatoes or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Slow-Cooker Golombki as a delicious nod to traditional Polish cuisine!
