Traditional Russian Golubtsy (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls)

Tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory meat and rice mixture, slowly simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Golubtsy is a beloved dish in Russian and Eastern European cuisine, offering a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for family gatherings and cold-weather days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Russian Flavor – A traditional dish passed down through generations.
• Hearty and Satisfying – A perfect balance of tender cabbage, seasoned meat, and rich tomato sauce.
• Great for Meal Prep – Can be made ahead of time and reheated for later meals.
• One-Pot Cooking – Everything is cooked together for an easy, flavorful dish.
• Customizable Filling – Adaptable to different meats, grains, and seasonings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• Large head of cabbage
• Ground beef or pork (or a mix)
• Cooked rice
• Small onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika
• Egg (optional, for binding)

For the Tomato Sauce:

• Tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• Beef or vegetable broth
• Tomato paste
• Sugar (optional)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Bay leaf
• Butter or oil

Directions

1. Prepare the cabbage leaves – Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Core the cabbage and gently peel off the leaves. Blanch the leaves for 1-2 minutes until soft, then drain.
2. Make the filling – In a bowl, mix ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and egg until well combined.
3. Assemble the cabbage rolls – Place a spoonful of filling onto each cabbage leaf, roll tightly, and tuck in the sides.
4. Prepare the sauce – In a pot, heat butter or oil and sauté tomato paste for a minute. Add tomato sauce, broth, sugar, salt, pepper, and bay leaf.
5. Cook the stuffed cabbage – Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the pot. Cover and simmer for 45-60 minutes until tender.
6. Serve and enjoy – Garnish with fresh dill or sour cream and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Variations

• Vegetarian Golubtsy – Replace meat with mushrooms and lentils for a meat-free version.
• Spicier Flavor – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.
• Different Meat Options – Try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative.
• Dairy-Infused – Mix in a little sour cream or heavy cream into the sauce for extra richness.
• Baked Version – Instead of simmering, bake in a covered dish at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked cabbage rolls in sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a covered pot over low heat or microwave until heated through.

FAQs

What is Golubtsy?

Golubtsy are Russian-style stuffed cabbage rolls filled with a meat and rice mixture and cooked in tomato sauce.

Can I use savoy cabbage instead of regular cabbage?

Yes, savoy cabbage has softer leaves that are easier to roll.

Do I have to cook the rice before adding it to the filling?

Yes, using cooked rice helps the filling stay tender and evenly cooked.

What can I serve with Golubtsy?

Serve with sour cream, rye bread, mashed potatoes, or a side salad.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, layer the rolls in a slow cooker, add the sauce, and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

How do I keep the cabbage leaves from tearing?

Blanching the leaves softens them, making them easier to roll without breaking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, Golubtsy can be assembled a day in advance and cooked when ready to serve.

Is Golubtsy similar to other stuffed cabbage dishes?

Yes, variations exist across Eastern Europe, such as Polish Golabki and Ukrainian Holubtsi.

How do I thicken the tomato sauce?

Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or stir in a little flour or cornstarch.

Can I add cheese to the filling?

While not traditional, grated Parmesan or feta can add an extra layer of flavor.

Conclusion

Traditional Russian Golubtsy is a comforting, hearty dish that brings rich flavors to the table. Whether served for a special occasion or a cozy family meal, these stuffed cabbage rolls are a timeless favorite. Try this authentic recipe today and enjoy a taste of Russian home cooking!