Go Back
Golabki Recipe Slow Cooker

Golabki Recipe Slow Cooker - Easy Family Meal

Growing up, my grandmother made the best golabki I’ve ever tasted. Every Sunday, our family would gather at her house and feast on her stuffed cabbage rolls. The aroma filled the air, announcing to everyone that happiness was on the menu. 
As life has it, I’ve taken her recipe and adapted it to my slow cooker. This method is a game changer! With hardly any hands-on time, I can enjoy golabki even on busy weekdays.
In this post, I will guide you through my slow cooker golabki recipe. You’ll find step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and delightful sides. This dish not only warms your belly but also your heart. Trust me, this is comfort food at its best.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 18
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Hungarian, Polish
Calories: 330
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large savoy or green cabbage
For the Meat Filling:
  • 1 lb ground pork sausage
  • 1/2 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, peeled and finely chopped
  • 1 cup cooked white rice
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce for a richer umami flavor
For the Cabbage Roll Sauce:
  • 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes
  • 15 oz can of tomato sauce
  • 3 cloves 3-5 garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce replacing Worcestershire for a deeper flavor
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar as an alternative to red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce optional for spice
  • 2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
  1. Start by removing the core of the cabbage. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the whole cabbage. Blanch it for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the leaves to soften. Carefully remove the cabbage and let it cool. Once cool, peel off the outer leaves.
Step 2: Make the Filling
  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, ground beef, chopped onion, cooked rice, egg, dried Italian herbs, and soy sauce. Mix until well combined. I find using my hands works best, but a spatula will do.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
  1. Lay a cabbage leaf on a flat surface. Place approximately 2-3 tablespoons of the filling at the base of the leaf. Roll it up tightly, folding in the sides as you go. Place the rolled cabbage seam side down in your slow cooker.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
  1. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce, dried Italian herbs, and smoked paprika. Stir until combined. Pour this sauce over the stuffed cabbage rolls in the slow cooker.
Step 5: Cook
  1. Cover your slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let it simmer for 6 to 8 hours or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld. The smell will be incredible!
Step 6: Serve It Up
  1. Once done, scoop the golabki onto plates. Drizzle some sauce over the top and garnish with fresh parsley. You’re ready to enjoy!

Notes

  • Choose a good cabbage: Aim for a large, firm cabbage. Savoy cabbage is softer and easier to work with, but green cabbage is just as good.
  • Don’t rush the cooking: Allowing plenty of time in the slow cooker is crucial. It enhances the flavors and tenderness.
  • Chill leftovers: If making in advance, let the golabki cool down before refrigerating. They keep well!
  • Consider the filling: Feel free to swap meats or add cooked vegetables to the filling for variety. Cooked lentils work great for a vegetarian version.
  • Adjust sauce consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid for the last hour of cooking. This will help it reduce.