Cabbage and Dumplings Recipe

Introduction

Cabbage and dumplings is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender sautéed cabbage with soft, pillowy dumplings. It’s an easy-to-make meal perfect for cooler days when you crave something warm and satisfying. This recipe balances simple ingredients to create a delicious, homey classic.

Ingredients

• 1 medium green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
• ½ cup vegetable broth or water
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup milk (plus more if needed)
• 1 tablespoon butter (for finishing)
• Optional: chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in the chopped cabbage, salt, pepper, and caraway seeds if using. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage softens. Pour in the vegetable broth or water, cover, and simmer for another 10 minutes.
2. Step 2: While the cabbage cooks, prepare the dumpling dough. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of salt. Add the egg and ½ cup of milk, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a soft but manageable consistency.
3. Step 3: Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough directly into the simmering cabbage mixture. Cover the pot tightly and let the dumplings steam for 10–12 minutes until cooked through and fluffy.
4. Step 4: Remove the lid and gently stir in 1 tablespoon of butter for richness. Serve the cabbage and dumplings hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, sauté the cabbage with a clove of minced garlic or a splash of apple cider vinegar before simmering.
• Swap vegetable broth for chicken broth if you prefer a richer taste.
• Add cooked bacon or smoked sausage for a heartier version.
• Use fresh herbs like dill or thyme instead of parsley for a different aromatic twist.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?

It’s best to drop dumplings into the cabbage mixture fresh so they cook evenly and stay light. The dough can be prepared ahead, covered, and refrigerated for a few hours before cooking.

What if I don’t have caraway seeds?

Caraway seeds add a traditional earthy note but are optional. You can omit them or substitute with celery seeds or fennel seeds if desired.

Cabbage and Dumplings Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 90 reviews

Cabbage and Dumplings is a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender sautéed cabbage simmered in a flavorful broth, topped with soft, fluffy dumplings made from a simple flour, egg, and milk dough. This rustic meal is perfect for cozy dinners and can be garnished with fresh herbs for a burst of color and flavor.

• Author: Cleo
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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For the Cabbage and Broth

• 1 medium green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
• ½ cup vegetable broth or water

For the Dumplings

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup milk (plus more if needed)

For Finishing

• 1 tablespoon butter
• Optional: chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté Cabbage: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the chopped cabbage, salt, black pepper, and optional caraway seeds. Cook the mixture for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Add ½ cup of vegetable broth or water, cover the pan, and let it simmer for another 10 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
2. Make Dumpling Dough: While the cabbage simmers, whisk together 1½ cups of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of salt in a bowl. Add 1 large beaten egg and ½ cup of milk, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too stiff, add more milk a tablespoon at a time until you reach a soft but workable consistency.
3. Cook Dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough directly into the simmering cabbage mixture. Cover the skillet tightly and steam the dumplings over medium heat for 10 to 12 minutes. The dumplings will cook through and become fluffy as they steam in the moisture from the cabbage and broth.
4. Finish & Serve: Gently stir 1 tablespoon of butter into the cabbage and dumplings mixture to add richness and flavor. Serve the dish hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired for a fresh and colorful touch.

Notes

• Caraway seeds are optional but add a traditional flavor that complements cabbage well.
• Use vegetable broth for added flavor, or water if you prefer a lighter dish.
• Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
• Dumpling dough consistency is key: it should be soft enough to drop from a spoon, but not too runny.
• This dish is best served immediately but can be reheated gently on the stovetop.

Keywords: cabbage and dumplings, cabbage recipe, dumplings, vegetarian dinner, comfort food, easy stovetop meal