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When the temperature drops and the nights grow longer, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of German Cabbage and Dumplings to wrap you in warmth and comfort. The moment you step into your kitchen, the comforting aroma of sautéed onions and garlic fills the air, inviting you to turn on the stove. I discovered this heartwarming recipe on a cozy night when I craved something hearty yet simple.

This one-pot dish is all about tender cabbage simmered in a savory broth, brightened with a splash of vinegar and a hint of sweetness from sugar. But the real star? Fluffy, homemade dumplings that soak up every drop of that rich, flavorful broth. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply indulging in some self-care, this recipe delivers satisfaction with every bite. It’s a culinary embrace that’s as delightful to make as it is to share. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delicious comfort food experience that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!

Why choose German Cabbage and Dumplings?

Comfort in Every Bite: This dish is truly a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings.
One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy an easy clean-up, as everything cooks in one pot!
Versatile Ingredients: With simple pantry staples, you can make this dish vegetarian or even vegan.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of tangy vinegar and sweet sugar creates a delightful balance.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, everyone will love this hearty dish!

German Cabbage and Dumplings Ingredients

For the Cabbage Mixture

Cabbage – A large head of green cabbage brings tenderness and flavor to this dish.
Vegetable Oil – Ideal for sautéing; swap it out with olive oil for a distinct taste.
Onion – Finely chopped yellow or white onions add a touch of sweetness and aroma.
Garlic – Fresh garlic significantly enhances the flavor; it’s best to stick with fresh for optimal taste.
Caraway Seeds – Unique and earthy; for a different spin, fennel seeds can be used in its place.
Sugar – Helps balance vinegar’s acidity; consider honey as a sweeter alternative.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds the perfect tang; in a pinch, white vinegar or lemon juice can work well.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate the flavor; adjust to your personal preference.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth – Choose low-sodium versions for a healthier simmering liquid.

For the Dumplings

All-purpose Flour – The base of your dumpling dough; ensure accurate measurement for the best result.
Egg – Acts as a binding agent; for a vegan alternative, a flax egg is a great substitute.
Water – Add gradually for the right dumpling dough consistency; it can make a difference!
Baking Powder – Critical for that fluffy dumpling texture; don’t skip this essential ingredient.

How to Make German Cabbage and Dumplings

Prepare the Cabbage: Start by removing the outer leaves from your cabbage. Cut it in half and slice it into thin strips. Set aside those tender ribbons for later use.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3–4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.
Cook the Cabbage Mixture: Stir in the sliced cabbage, caraway seeds, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Cook this delightful mixture for about 10 minutes until the cabbage wilts and gets tender.
Simmer the Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook on low heat for 20–30 minutes until the cabbage is completely tender and infused with flavor.
Make the Dumpling Dough: While your cabbage simmers, combine the all-purpose flour and baking powder in a bowl. Create a well in the center and add the egg (or flax egg) and water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead it lightly until smooth.
Boil the Dumplings: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Shape the dumpling dough into compressed, golf-ball-sized balls, then gently drop them into the boiling water. Cook for 10–12 minutes or until the dumplings float to the surface, indicating they’re done.
Serve and Enjoy: Use a slotted spoon to remove the dumplings and set them aside. Taste the cabbage mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, spooning the cabbage and broth over the fluffy dumplings.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added brightness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Variations & Substitutions for German Cabbage and Dumplings

Feel free to get creative and make this cozy dish your own!

Vegetarian Upgrade: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a beloved vegetarian option.
Vegan Delight: Replace the egg with a flax egg to make your dumplings fit for a vegan feast.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like chives or thyme to the dumpling mixture for a burst of flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
Cheesy Twist: For extra richness, mix shredded cheese into the dumpling dough; it will create a delightful surprise with each bite.
Flavor Boost: Stir in diced smoked sausage or crispy bacon just before serving for a flavor explosion that brings heartiness to your meal.
Spice it Up: For a bit of heat, include a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cabbage mixture, bringing a pleasant warmth to the dish.
Sweet Alternative: Swap sugar for maple syrup or honey to add a unique sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the tangy vinegar.
Textural Variation: Incorporate finely chopped mushrooms into the cabbage for added texture and an earthy flavor, enhancing the overall comfort experience.

Expert Tips for German Cabbage and Dumplings

Perfect Dumpling Texture: Ensure the dumpling dough isn’t too wet or dry; adjust gradually with flour or water for the ideal consistency.
Richness Boost: For a gourmet touch, incorporate shredded cheese into the dumpling mixture—it elevates the flavors beautifully.
Taste Adjustment: During the final simmer, taste the cabbage and adjust the sweetness or acidity to suit your preference; it’s all about balance in this dish.
Flavorful Additions: Consider stirring in crispy bacon or sausage just before serving for a delightful flavor boost to complement the German Cabbage and Dumplings.
Herb Enhancements: Experiment with fresh herbs like chives or thyme in your dumpling dough for an unexpected flavor twist.

Make Ahead Options

German Cabbage and Dumplings are a wonderful dish to prepare ahead of time, making them perfect for busy weeknights! You can sauté the cabbage mixture and store it in the refrigerator up to 3 days before serving, ensuring to cool it completely before covering. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop. The dumplings can also be made in advance; form them and freeze them for up to 2 months. To finish, boil the frozen dumplings straight from the freezer for about 12-14 minutes before serving with the warmed cabbage. This way, you’ll have a cozy, delicious meal that tastes just as fresh as when you made it!

How to Store and Freeze German Cabbage and Dumplings

Fridge: Store cooked cabbage and dumplings separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their textures and flavors.
Freezer: Freeze cabbage and dumplings in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm cabbage in a pan with a splash of broth on low heat. Reheat dumplings in boiling water for 1–2 minutes or microwave until heated through.
Flavors: Keep in mind that the flavors will meld beautifully over time, making this German Cabbage and Dumplings recipe even more comforting when enjoyed as leftovers!

What to Serve with German Cabbage and Dumplings?

The perfect accompaniment can elevate this cozy comfort meal into a delightful feast that warms the heart.

Crusty Bread: Nothing beats the simplicity of a warm, crusty loaf to soak up the savory broth and balance the dish’s textures.
Sautéed Green Beans: A light sauté of fresh green beans with garlic provides a vibrant contrast, enhancing the meal’s flavor profile.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: They add a luscious texture that pairs beautifully with the heartiness of the cabbage and dumplings, creating a lavish comfort plate.
Apple Sauce: The sweet-tart notes of apple sauce perfectly cut through the richness, bringing a refreshing taste to every bite.
German Lager: Enjoying a crisp German lager adds a refreshing layer to the meal, complementing the flavors while keeping it festive.
Lemon Salad: A fresh garden salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette brightens up the meal, balancing the warm, hearty elements with its zesty finish.
Roasted Beet Salad: The earthy sweetness of roasted beets drizzled with balsamic is a lovely touch to tie in with the dish’s comforting notes.
Chocolate Cake: To end on a sweet note, consider serving a slice of rich chocolate cake, adding indulgence as a perfect finish to this comforting meal.

German Cabbage and Dumplings Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right cabbage for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, select a large head of green cabbage that feels heavy for its size. Look for crisp leaves without any dark spots; those are signs of freshness. If possible, pick organic cabbage to enhance the overall taste of your dish.

How should I store leftover German Cabbage and Dumplings?
Very good question! It’s best to store cooked cabbage and dumplings separately in airtight containers in the fridge. They will keep well for up to 3 days. This helps prevent the dumplings from getting mushy. Reheat gently — I recommend using a non-stick skillet for the cabbage to avoid burning.

Can I freeze German Cabbage and Dumplings?
Absolutely, this dish freezes beautifully! To freeze, let both the cabbage and dumplings cool completely. Then, pack them into freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What should I do if my dumpling dough is too dry or too wet?
No worries at all; this is a common issue! If your dumpling dough is too dry, slowly add water, a tablespoon at a time, until the right consistency is achieved. Conversely, if it’s too wet, incorporate flour gradually, kneading gently until it’s manageable. Aim for a soft, somewhat sticky texture that holds together when formed into balls — this balance is key to achieving fluffy dumplings!

Are there any dietary considerations with German Cabbage and Dumplings?
Great inquiry! This recipe is versatile; for a vegetarian version, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. If you want to keep it vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken). Always double-check for allergies to any specific ingredients like gluten or seeds, especially if serving to guests.

What can I do if the broth tastes too acidic or too sweet?
Excellent question! If your broth is too acidic, you can add a bit more sugar to balance it out, or incorporate just a splash more broth to dilute it. On the flip side, if it’s too sweet, that’s an easy fix; you can add a dash of vinegar to enhance the acidity or a bit more salt and pepper to round out those flavors. Taste as you go to find the perfect harmony!