Low Carb German Cabbage and Dumplings
If you love hearty comfort food but want to keep things low in carbs, this Low Carb German Cabbage and Dumplings recipe is your new go-to dish. Inspired by the rich, rustic flavors of traditional German cuisine, this meal delivers all the savory satisfaction of old-world comfort without the heavy carbs.
Imagine tender cabbage sautéed with onions and bacon, enveloping soft, pillowy low-carb dumplings that soak up every bit of buttery, garlicky flavor. It’s warm, satisfying, and perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or cozy Sunday dinners.
🥬 Why You’ll Love This Dish
This low carb German-style meal captures the heart of classic European cooking while keeping it **keto-friendly**. Instead of carb-heavy flour dumplings, this recipe uses a low-carb, gluten-free alternative that mimics the traditional texture beautifully. Paired with seasoned cabbage and savory bacon, every bite is a balance of richness, smokiness, and comfort.
It’s one of those dishes that tastes indulgent yet fits seamlessly into a low-carb, keto, or diabetic-friendly diet.
🧂 Ingredients and Their Roles
For the Cabbage:
- 1 medium green cabbage, shredded – The star of the dish, cabbage becomes sweet and tender as it cooks, soaking up all the rich, buttery flavors.
- 4 strips of bacon, chopped – Adds a smoky, salty depth that enhances the cabbage’s natural sweetness.
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced – Brings a mild sweetness and aromatic base to balance the savory bacon.
- 2 tablespoons butter – Helps caramelize the cabbage and onion for a golden, flavorful finish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a warm, savory note without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for balancing all flavors.
- ½ teaspoon caraway seeds (optional) – A traditional German spice that adds earthy authenticity.
For the Low Carb Dumplings:
- 1 cup almond flour – The base for the dumplings, keeping them low-carb while providing structure.
- 2 tablespoons coconut flour – Adds texture and helps the dumplings hold together.
- 2 large eggs – Bind the dough and give it that classic dumpling consistency.
- ¼ cup ricotta or cream cheese – Adds creaminess and moisture.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor of the dumplings.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps them puff up and stay light.
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted – Adds richness and a tender texture.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
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1. Prepare the Cabbage
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped **bacon** over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
Add **butter and sliced onion** to the pan, sautéing until translucent. Then add the **shredded cabbage**, stirring occasionally as it wilts and caramelizes. Sprinkle in **garlic powder, salt, pepper, and caraway seeds** (if using).
Let the cabbage cook for about **15–20 minutes**, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden brown.
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2. Make the Dumpling Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine **almond flour, coconut flour, salt, and baking powder**. In another bowl, whisk together the **eggs, ricotta (or cream cheese), and melted butter** until smooth.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry and mix until a dough forms. The texture should be slightly sticky but moldable. If too wet, add a teaspoon of coconut flour at a time until firm enough to shape.
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3. Shape and Cook the Dumplings
Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a **gentle simmer** (not a rolling boil). Using a spoon, drop small dumplings (about 1-inch) into the water.
Cook for **5–7 minutes**, or until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon and let them drain on a paper towel.
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4. Combine and Serve
Gently fold the **dumplings and bacon** into the sautéed cabbage. Cook together for another **3–5 minutes**, allowing the flavors to meld.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a pat of butter for extra richness.
💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Low Carb Dumplings
- Don’t overmix the dough — this can make the dumplings **dense** instead of tender.
- Simmer gently, not boil — boiling too hard can **break the dumplings** apart.
- Add extra butter or bacon fat to the skillet before mixing in the dumplings for unbeatable flavor.
- If you prefer a touch of tang, add a spoonful of **sour cream** when serving for a creamy finish.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve your Low Carb German Cabbage and Dumplings as a main dish or a hearty side. It pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted **sausages or bratwurst** for a full German-inspired meal.
- Grilled **pork chops or chicken thighs** for a protein-packed dinner.
- A crisp green salad with **mustard vinaigrette** to balance the richness.