Galumpki'S(Ukrainian Stuffed Cabbage)

Prep: 30 min Cook: 180 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: Ukrainian

Ukrainian stuffed cabbage rolls feature tender cabbage leaves filled with seasoned meat and rice, simmered in tomato sauce for a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners.

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Ingredients

  • 2 large heads green cabbage
  • 2 large onions
  • 1 cup salt pork, cubed
  • 1 cup salt pork, cut in 1/2 inch chunks
  • 3 pounds ground beef
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 2 medium cloves garlic
  • 1 large can stewed tomatoes

Instructions

  1. Core the cabbage, parboil, and peel whole leaves off.
  2. In a large skillet, sauté small cubed salt pork and one large diced onion until salt pork is golden brown and onion is translucent.
  3. In a bowl, combine hamburger and cooked rice; add salt pork and onion mixture, then season with salt and pepper. Mix well.
  4. Place a portion of the meat mixture onto each cabbage leaf and roll up to form stuffed cabbage rolls.
  5. In a large pot, add garlic, chopped onion, salt pork chunks, and canned stewed tomatoes; then stack cabbage rolls tightly in the pot.
  6. Pour stewed tomatoes between layers and on top of the cabbage rolls.
  7. Cover the pot and cook over low heat for 3 to 4 hours, or until done.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like dill or thyme to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rice can be used. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use quinoa and additional vegetables instead of meat. Be sure to season the filling generously for the best taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve galumpkis with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor. They pair beautifully with Parmesan Browned Potatoes for a comforting meal. A side of crusty bread or a light salad can help balance the richness of the dish. For a complete experience, consider serving with a glass of red wine.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover galumpkis can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of tomato sauce if needed.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Galumpki'S(Ukrainian Stuffed Cabbage) contains roughly 394 calories, with 12g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1093mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).

394 kcal 20% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11.6g 23% DV
Total Fat 7.3g 9% DV
Carbs 73.3g 27% DV
Fiber 4.8g 17% DV
Sugar 10.5g 21% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1093.2mg 48% DV
Potassium 916.8mg 20% DV
Cholesterol 1.9mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 68.8mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 25mg 28% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 51.8mg 4% DV
Iron 5.6mg 31% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of meat for the filling?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for a different flavor profile. Mixing different meats can also add depth to the filling. Just ensure that the meat is cooked thoroughly before serving.

How do I know when the galumpkis are done cooking?

Galumpkis are done when they are tender and the meat filling reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The cabbage leaves should be soft and easily pierced with a fork. Cooking times may vary, so check after 3 hours.

Can I make galumpkis ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare galumpkis a day in advance! Assemble them and store in the refrigerator before cooking. Alternatively, you can fully cook them and reheat when ready to serve. This makes them a great option for meal prep or entertaining.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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