German Cabbage Dumpling Supper

A warm kitchen filled with the enticing aroma of sautéed onions and cabbage sets the stage for a delightful comfort meal. This German Cabbage Dumpling Supper is a hearty dish that comes together in about 30 to 45 minutes and works wonderfully because of its balance of tender dumplings and savory cabbage.

This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, or any time you crave something cozy and filling. It’s also an excellent choice for meal prep, as the leftovers reheat beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The dumplings are light and fluffy, soaking up the flavors of the sautéed cabbage.
• It’s a simple one-pot dish, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor.
• Fresh herbs add a vibrant touch that elevates the dish.
• It can be easily customized with different herbs for varied taste profiles.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish:

For the Cabbage

• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• Around ½ tsp fine salt (or to your preference)
• A medium head of green cabbage, coarsely chopped (roughly 6 to 7 cups)
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper
• ½ cup vegetable broth or plain water (as needed for moisture)

For the Dumplings

• 1½ cups plain all-purpose flour
• ½ cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp table salt
• Optional: 1 to 2 tsp freshly minced dill or parsley for added herbaceous flavor

For a lighter version, substitute butter with olive oil.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Olive oil can replace unsalted butter.
• Any green herbs can substitute dill or parsley.
• Whole wheat flour is a healthier dumpling option.
• Vegetable broth can be swapped with chicken broth.

How to Make It

This dish is straightforward to prepare.

Melt the Butter

In a heavy-bottomed pot or deep-sided skillet, melt the butter over a medium flame. Toss in the chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent and tender, which should take about 5 minutes.

Cook the Cabbage

Incorporate the chopped cabbage into the pot. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, stirring thoroughly so the cabbage is evenly coated in the melted butter. Pour in the water or broth to provide moisture. Cover with a lid and cook for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, stirring every few minutes until the cabbage softens.

Prepare the Dumpling Dough

Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl, beat the eggs with the milk and salt until well combined. Slowly fold in the flour, mixing just until a sticky dough forms. Avoid overworking the batter. Stir in herbs if using.

Add the Dumplings

Once the cabbage has reached a tender consistency and most of the liquid has evaporated, drop the dumpling dough by generous spoonfuls over the surface of the cabbage. Cover the pot tightly and allow the dumplings to steam over medium-low heat for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they appear puffed and are fully set in the center.

Serve

Serve the dish immediately while warm. For an extra touch of richness, drizzle with melted butter just before serving. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, the dish freezes well for up to a month.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure to chop the cabbage coarsely to ensure even cooking.
• Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent the cabbage from burning.
• Adjust the seasoning to your liking before serving for a personalized touch.
• Consider adding a splash of vinegar for a tangy twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Serve alongside roasted meats for an impressive dinner spread.
• Enjoy with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavors.