What's The Difference Between Polish And Ukrainian Cabbage Rolls?

The humble cabbage roll, a blend of simmered cabbage leaves stuffed with rice, meats, and vegetables, is especially popular in two different countries: Poland and Ukraine.

The differences between the styles are subtle. Numerous varied recipes exist, and even the history and names are intertwined — both mean "little pigeons" in the local language.

Golabki, Polish cabbage rolls, are traditionally stuffed with meat –– usually beef and/or pork — rice, barley or groat, onions, and garlic, covered in tomato sauce.

There are also several versions of golabki recipes in different regions of Poland, and the dish changes with the seasons, so there’s no singular Polish golabki recipe.

When it comes to the comforting Ukrainian holubtsi, the range of recipes is similarly expansive. Oftentimes, holubtsi are vegetarian, but meat-filled holubtsi do exist.

Like with Polish cabbage rolls, rice is a popular filling, and the preparation process is the same. The cabbage is tightly wrapped around the filling and then slowly simmered.