This hearty German dish combines the flavors of tender sautéed cabbage with fluffy homemade dumplings, making for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

1. Remove any damaged outer leaves from the cabbage and cut it into quarters. Remove the core and slice the cabbage thinly.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add butter or olive oil.
3. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced cabbage and caraway seeds (if using). Stir well to coat with butter and onions.
5. Pour in the broth, cover the skillet, and let the cabbage steam gently for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The cabbage should be tender but still have a slight bite.

Step 2: Make the Dumpling Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and melted butter.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be sticky but manageable.
4. Let the dough rest for 10 minutes while the cabbage finishes cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Dumplings

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil.
2. Using a spoon or your hands, form the dough into small dumplings (about the size of a golf ball).
3. Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water. Reduce heat to low so that the water simmers gently.
4. Cook the dumplings for 10–12 minutes or until they rise to the surface and are cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Place the sautéed cabbage on a large serving platter.
2. Arrange the fluffy dumplings on top or beside the cabbage.
3. For extra flavor, drizzle a little melted butter over the dumplings.
4. Serve warm as a hearty main course. This dish pairs beautifully with German sausages, roasted pork, or simply on its own for a vegetarian-friendly meal.

Tips for the Perfect German Comfort Meal

• Cabbage Choice: Green cabbage is traditional, but savoy cabbage works beautifully for a slightly sweeter flavor.
• Dumpling Texture: Avoid overmixing the dough; a light hand keeps dumplings fluffy.
• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the cabbage while cooking for a tangy, authentic twist.
• Leftovers: Dumplings are best eaten fresh but can be gently reheated in a steamer or microwave.

This simple yet hearty German dish is all about balance: tender cabbage, rich onion flavors, and soft, cloud-like dumplings that soak up every bit of goodness. It’s perfect for family dinners, chilly evenings, or whenever you crave that cozy, home-cooked comfort.

If you want, I can also create a version with step-by-step images showing how to make the dumplings and sautéed cabbage—it makes the process super easy to follow.

Do you want me to do that?