German Cabbage and Dumplings – A Cozy Family Classic
There’s a certain kind of meal that doesn’t just fill you up — it wraps around you like a warm blanket. For me, German Cabbage and Dumplings is exactly that. It’s been in my family for generations, showing up at Sunday dinners, chilly weeknights, and just about any time we needed a little extra comfort.
It’s simple, rustic, and impossibly satisfying: tender cabbage simmered in butter, topped with fluffy dumplings that soak up all that savory flavor. One bite, and I’m instantly transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where the air was thick with the smell of melting butter and steaming cabbage.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients, big flavor – Everything you need is likely in your kitchen already.
- Budget-friendly – Cabbage stretches beautifully, making it perfect for feeding a crowd.
- Versatile – You can keep it classic or dress it up with smoky bacon, apples, or spices.
- Deeply comforting – The combination of buttery cabbage and pillowy dumplings is irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 medium cabbage, cored and finely shredded
- 4 tbsp butter
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
Tools You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottomed pot with lid
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowl and spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the cabbage – Remove the outer leaves, core the cabbage, and slice it into fine shreds.
- Sauté in butter – In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cabbage, season with salt and pepper, and cook until tender, stirring occasionally.
- Make the dumpling batter – In a mixing bowl, combine flour, eggs, and milk. Stir until you have a thick, spoonable batter. Adjust with a little more flour or milk if needed.
- Steam the dumplings – Once the cabbage is tender, drop spoonfuls of the batter directly onto the cabbage. Cover the pot and steam for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Serve & enjoy – Gently remove the dumplings along with the cabbage. Serve hot with extra butter if desired.
Variations to Try
- Bacon & Onion – Fry bacon and onions until crisp, then stir into the cooked cabbage for a smoky twist.
- Caraway Seeds – Add 1 tbsp toasted caraway seeds to the dumpling batter for a traditional German flavor.
- Sweet Touch – Stir thin apple slices into the cabbage for a savory-sweet balance.
Tips for the Best Dumplings
- No peeking! Lifting the lid during cooking lets out steam, making dumplings dense.
- Season well – Cabbage loves salt, so don’t be shy.
- Make ahead – You can prep the cabbage earlier in the day and steam the dumplings just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty enough on its own, but it’s also wonderful with:
- A crisp cucumber salad
- Roasted sausage or pork chops
- Fresh rye bread and butter
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat – Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.
- Freezer – Cabbage freezes well; dumplings are best enjoyed fresh.
Final Thoughts
German Cabbage and Dumplings is the kind of recipe that doesn’t just feed you — it connects you to something bigger. Whether you make it exactly as written or add your own twist, it’s a dish that feels like home.
Enjoy!