This comforting German Cabbage with Dumplings is a timeless family favorite that brings simple ingredients together into a warm, satisfying meal. Tender buttered cabbage, gently cooked with onions, is paired with soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up all the savory goodness. It’s humble, hearty food that feels like home with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is easy to make, budget-friendly, and deeply comforting. It uses everyday pantry staples, yet the result feels special and nostalgic. The contrast between the silky cabbage and fluffy dumplings creates a perfect balance of texture, and the mild, buttery flavor makes it ideal for both kids and adults. It’s naturally vegetarian, filling without being heavy, and perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the cabbage:
1 medium green cabbage (about 2.5 pounds), chopped into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons water
For the dumplings:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1/2 cup whole milk
Optional garnish:
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Directions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent.
Add the chopped cabbage, salt, pepper, and water. Stir well, cover partially, and cook for 18–22 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until the cabbage is tender but not mushy.
While the cabbage cooks, prepare the dumpling batter. In a medium bowl, mix the flour and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together. Gradually stir the wet mixture into the flour until a thick, smooth batter forms.
Bring a separate pot of salted water to a gentle boil.
Using two teaspoons, drop small portions of batter into the boiling water. Cook for 3–5 minutes, or until the dumplings float to the surface and are cooked through.
Remove the dumplings with a slotted spoon and drain well.
Gently fold the cooked dumplings into the cabbage, mixing carefully so they stay intact.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: approximately 40 minutes
Variations
You can add minced garlic to the onions for extra aroma. A pinch of nutmeg or caraway seeds gives a traditional flavor twist. For a slightly sweeter note, mix in a grated apple or a handful of shredded carrots with the cabbage. For a lighter version, reduce the butter to 1 tablespoon and use low-fat milk in the dumplings.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a small splash of water to prevent drying out. Stir carefully when reheating to keep the dumplings intact.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat gently before serving.
What type of cabbage works best?
Green cabbage is ideal because it becomes tender while holding its shape.
Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cabbage alone. Dumplings are best made fresh.
Why are my dumplings too dense?
Dense dumplings usually mean the batter was overmixed or too thick.
Can I use plant-based milk?
Yes, unsweetened plant-based milk works well as a substitute.
How do I know when the dumplings are done?
They will float to the surface and feel firm but tender when cooked through.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, the mild flavor and soft texture make it very kid-friendly.
Can I add herbs?
Fresh parsley or a small amount of dill works beautifully.
What can I serve with this dish?
It works well on its own or alongside simple vegetables or bread.
Can I make smaller dumplings?
Yes, smaller dumplings cook faster and distribute more evenly through the cabbage.
Conclusion
This German Cabbage with Dumplings recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a piece of family tradition passed down through generations. Simple, nourishing, and deeply comforting, it proves that the most memorable dishes often come from the humblest ingredients. Whether you’re recreating a cherished memory or discovering it for the first time, this recipe is one worth keeping at your table for years to come.
This comforting German Cabbage with Dumplings recipe combines tender buttered cabbage and soft, pillowy dumplings for a hearty, nostalgic dish that’s simple to prepare and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients
1 medium green cabbage (about 2.5 pounds), chopped into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons water
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt (for dumplings)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup whole milk
Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent.
Add the chopped cabbage, salt, pepper, and water. Stir well, cover partially, and cook for 18–22 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until the cabbage is tender but not mushy.
While the cabbage cooks, prepare the dumpling batter. In a medium bowl, mix the flour and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together. Gradually stir the wet mixture into the flour until a thick, smooth batter forms.
Bring a separate pot of salted water to a gentle boil.
Using two teaspoons, drop small portions of batter into the boiling water. Cook for 3–5 minutes, or until the dumplings float to the surface and are cooked through.
Remove the dumplings with a slotted spoon and drain well.
Gently fold the cooked dumplings into the cabbage, mixing carefully so they stay intact.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
Add minced garlic or caraway seeds for extra flavor.
A touch of grated apple or carrot adds sweetness.
Use low-fat milk and less butter for a lighter version.
Dumplings are best fresh; avoid freezing them.
Stir gently when reheating to keep dumplings intact.
