- Brown the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef (and pork, if using) over medium heat until browned and no longer pink. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks.
- Add the Onions and Garlic: Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
- Add the Cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage, allowing it to cook down slightly for about 5 minutes.
- Incorporate the Tomato Components: Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in the Broth: Add the beef broth, ensuring all the ingredients are submerged. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, dill (if using), smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 3: Cook the Soup
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should be tender, and the flavors should be well combined.
- Add the Rice: If using uncooked rice, stir it into the soup about 20 minutes before the end of the cooking time. If using cooked rice, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking just to heat through.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce as needed.
- Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and, if desired, top with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added flavor and creaminess.
Tips for the Best Golumpki Soup
- Meat Options: You can use a mix of ground beef and pork for a richer flavor, or stick to just beef if you prefer.
- Rice: If you’re short on time, use leftover or pre-cooked rice. Brown rice can also be used for a whole-grain option, but it will take longer to cook.
- Vegetable Variations: Add carrots, bell peppers, or celery for extra texture and flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Golumpki Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a bit of heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with a mix of mushrooms and lentils for a hearty, meatless option. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Creamy Golumpki Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a creamy version of this soup.
Storing and Reheating
- Store: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
- Reheat: Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if the soup has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer.
Conclusion
Golumpki Soup is a wonderful way to enjoy all the flavors of traditional Polish stuffed cabbage rolls without the fuss. This hearty and comforting soup is perfect for chilly days and makes for an easy, satisfying meal that the whole family will love. With its rich tomato broth, tender cabbage, and savory meat, every spoonful is a taste of home-cooked goodness.