Golumpki Soup

A warm bowl of Golumpki Soup fills the kitchen with a nostalgic aroma that invites everyone to the table. This hearty soup combines tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, and the comforting flavors of a classic stuffed cabbage roll, all in just under an hour. It’s an easy way to enjoy a family favorite without the fuss of rolling individual cabbage leaves.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a cozy meal. It’s simple enough for novice cooks, yet delicious enough to impress guests. Plus, leftover soup stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It captures the essence of traditional golumpki in a simple soup form.
• Each spoonful combines tender cabbage with juicy beef and rice for a satisfying texture.
• A quick 30-minute simmer makes it suitable for a weeknight dinner.
• It’s a one-pot meal, simplifying cleanup without sacrificing flavor.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious soup.

For the Soup

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 cups chopped green cabbage
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Use low-sodium broth for a healthier option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ground turkey can replace ground beef.
• Brown rice works instead of white rice.
• Fresh parsley can be swapped for dried.
• Use fire-roasted tomatoes for added flavor.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create your Golumpki Soup.

1. Brown the beef

Brown the ground beef in a large soup pot over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.

2. Sauté vegetables

Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot; sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in tomatoes

Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and sugar; simmer for 3–4 minutes.

4. Add broth and bay leaf

Pour in the beef broth and add the bay leaf; bring to a gentle boil.

5. Incorporate cabbage

Incorporate the chopped cabbage; cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes until tender.

6. Finish with rice

Add cooked rice; simmer uncovered for another 5–10 minutes to thicken slightly. Adjust seasonings as necessary; remove the bay leaf before serving hot with fresh parsley on top.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave for 2-3 minutes or heat on the stove.

Tips for Best Results

• Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent sticking.
• Adjust cabbage amount based on personal preference for texture.
• Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving to deepen flavors.
• Top with additional parsley for a fresh finish.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread for a cozy meal.
• Pair with a crisp salad for a complete dinner.
• Perfect for family gatherings or chilly evenings.