• Freeze the cabbage first: For an easier method, pop the whole head of cabbage in the freezer overnight. Thaw it, and the leaves will peel off effortlessly without any boiling!
• Don’t overstuff: Too much filling can cause the rolls to burst. Aim for a golf-ball-sized portion of filling per roll.
• Leftovers rule: The flavors deepen over time. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for maximum deliciousness.

FAQ

• Can I use jarred sauce? Absolutely. A jar of marinara sauce (about 24 oz) works perfectly if you’re short on time.
• Why is my cabbage tough? The leaves were likely undercooked. Make sure they are pliable before rolling, or use the freezing method mentioned above.
• Can I make these vegetarian? Yes, swap the meat for sautéed mushrooms and lentils and adjust the seasoning aggressively.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic: Serve with creamy, garlicky mashed potatoes and roasted carrots.
• Modern: Pair with a crisp apple-fennel salad for a fresh, contrasting crunch.
• Polish Tradition: A side of chłodnik (cold beet soup) in the summer is a perfect pairing.

Grandma’s Gołąbki – Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Prep Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 2 hours
• Servings: 12 rolls

Ingredients

• 1 large green cabbage (core removed)
• 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20)
• ½ small yellow onion, grated
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Tomato Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ small yellow onion, grated
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes
• ½ cup water
• 1 tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Garnish (optional):

• Fresh dill or parsley
• Sour cream

Instructions

1. Prep Cabbage: Boil cored cabbage for 10-15 minutes. Peel leaves and trim stems.
2. Make Filling: Combine all filling ingredients (ground beef, onion, garlic, lemon zest, egg, rice, salt, and pepper) in a large bowl.
3. Cook Sauce: Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil. Add tomatoes, water, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Assemble Rolls: Place 2-3 tbsp filling on each leaf. Fold sides, roll tightly. Arrange seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Bake: Pour sauce over the rolls. Bake at 350°F for 50-60 minutes. Rest for 10 minutes, then garnish and serve.