Introduction:
Savor the comforting flavors of traditional German home cooking with this German Cabbage and Dumplings recipe. Tender, braised cabbage infused with a tangy vinegar-sugar balance and aromatic caraway seeds meets soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up every bit of savory goodness. Perfect for chilly evenings or a family meal that warms the soul!
⏱ Prep Time: 20 minutes
🍳 Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
⏲ Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
🍽 Servings: 6
🔥 Calories per Serving: ~450 kcal (approx.)
🥬 Ingredients
For the Braised Cabbage:
- 1 medium head green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced (about 6–8 cups)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (or oil)
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dumplings:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking powder (for extra fluff)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (optional)
📝 Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage:
- In a large, heavy pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded cabbage and cook for another 5 minutes until it begins to wilt.
- Pour in the broth, apple cider vinegar, and add the brown sugar, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir well, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cover the pot and let the cabbage braise on low heat for about 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and flavorful.
- Make the Dumpling Dough:
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, eggs, milk, salt, baking powder, and melted butter until a smooth dough forms.
- Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
- Cook the Dumplings:
- Once the cabbage is nearly done, drop spoonfuls (about 1–2 tablespoons each) of the dumpling dough onto the simmering cabbage. Be careful not to disturb the surface.
- Cover the pot tightly and let the dumplings steam for 15–20 minutes until they are puffed up and cooked through. (Do not lift the lid during this time.)
- Finish & Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the hearty cabbage and dumplings warm—enjoy every comforting bite!
🤩 Why You’ll Love This German Cabbage and Dumplings:
- Hearty Comfort: Tender braised cabbage paired with fluffy dumplings makes for a soul-warming meal.
- Traditional Flavors: The tang of vinegar and sweetness of brown sugar, accented with caraway seeds, evoke classic German cuisine.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor in every bite.
- Versatile: Enjoy as a main dish or as a robust side alongside your favorite meat.
💡 Tips:
- Even Dumplings: Stir the dumpling dough gently to keep them light and airy.
- Slow Braise: Let the cabbage cook low and slow for the best flavor and tender texture.
- Make Ahead: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra kick, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash more vinegar if you like a tangier taste.
Enjoy your German Cabbage and Dumplings—a traditional, hearty dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious!