Name: German Cabbage & Dumplings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 medium green cabbage, chopped; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk; 1 large egg; Special Tools:; A large, heavy-bottomed skillet; A mixing bowl for the dumplings; A slotted spoon for handling the dumplings

German Cabbage & Dumplings

There’s something magical about a dish that reminds you of home. For me, German Cabbage and Dumplings is more than just a recipe; it’s a memory of cozy Sunday afternoons, laughter around the dinner table, and the unmistakable aroma of buttery cabbage filling the house. My grandmother, lovingly called “Nana,” taught me this recipe when I was barely tall enough to see over the kitchen counter. She always said this dish was the epitome of simplicity and comfort, and she was right.

Life gets hectic, but when I make this dish, time seems to slow down. It’s hearty, filling, and exactly what I need when my family craves something warm and satisfying. The dumplings are pillowy and tender, perfectly soaking up the rich, buttery cabbage sauce. My kids love it, and even my picky eater always goes for seconds. My husband, who grew up on takeout, now requests this every time the weather turns chilly. It’s a recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl.

What I love most is how versatile this dish is. Whether served as a main course or alongside a hearty protein, it never disappoints. This recipe is simple enough for weeknights but special enough to serve when family visits. Once you try it, I’m confident it will become a regular in your household too.

So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into a recipe that’s sure to warm both your kitchen and your heart.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe:

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! Both the cabbage and dumplings can be made a day in advance. Reheat them gently on the stovetop with a bit of extra butter or broth to keep everything moist and flavorful.

What type of cabbage works best? Green cabbage is the classic choice for this recipe. It’s tender, sweet, and pairs perfectly with the dumplings. However, you can experiment with savoy cabbage for a slightly different texture.

Can I freeze leftovers? While the cabbage freezes well, the dumplings may lose their texture after freezing. If you plan to freeze, make the cabbage in advance and prepare fresh dumplings when reheating.

Are there gluten-free options? Absolutely! Substitute the flour in the dumpling recipe with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. The results are just as delicious.

What You Need to Make German Cabbage and Dumplings:

Ingredients:

1 medium green cabbage, chopped

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup milk

1 large egg

Special Tools:

A large, heavy-bottomed skillet

A mixing bowl for the dumplings

A slotted spoon for handling the dumplings

How to Make German Cabbage and Dumplings:

Prepare the cabbage: Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped cabbage, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until tender and slightly caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.

Make the dumpling batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and milk. Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients to form a thick batter.

Cook the dumplings: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the boiling water. Cook until the dumplings float to the surface and are fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the dumplings to a plate.

Combine and serve: Gently mix the dumplings into the cabbage, ensuring they’re coated in the buttery sauce. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of black pepper.

Tips for Making the Best German Cabbage and Dumplings:

Don’t rush the cabbage: Letting it cook low and slow ensures it’s tender and caramelized, bringing out its natural sweetness.

Avoid overmixing the dumpling batter: Overworking the batter can make the dumplings dense. Mix just until combined.

Add a touch of broth: For a richer flavor, add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth to the cabbage as it sautés.

Experiment with spices: A pinch of nutmeg or caraway seeds can add an extra layer of flavor.

Latest Reviews:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This recipe is incredible! My family devoured it, and I’ll definitely be making it again.” – Sarah B.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for a cozy night in. Next time, I’ll add a touch of nutmeg to the dumplings for extra flavor.” – Megan T.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Easy to make and absolutely delicious. My kids even asked for seconds!” – Laura H.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I loved the cabbage, but the dumplings were a bit dense. I’ll try mixing the batter less next time.” – Kevin R.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This reminded me of my grandmother’s cooking. A true comfort food classic.” – Maria G.

Printable Recipe:

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