If you love traditional German comfort food but want to keep things low carb, this Low Carb German Cabbage and Dumplings recipe is exactly what you need. It delivers all the cozy, savory flavors of a classic cabbage and dumplings dish—without the heavy carbs. Using almond flour dumplings instead of traditional bread or potato-based ones, this recipe fits perfectly into a low-carb or keto lifestyle while still feeling hearty and satisfying.
Tender cabbage cooked in butter or bacon fat, warm spices, and soft, pillowy dumplings come together to create a meal that’s both nostalgic and nourishing. It’s perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving something comforting but wholesome.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low carb and keto-friendly
- Rich, savory German-inspired flavors
- Filling without feeling heavy
- Simple ingredients and easy preparation
- Perfect as a main dish or hearty side
Ingredients
For the Cabbage
- 1 small green cabbage, shredded (about 4–5 cups)
- 3 tablespoons butter or bacon fat
- ½ small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, for traditional flavor)
- ½ cup chicken or beef broth
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 4 ounces bacon, chopped (optional but highly recommended)
For the Low-Carb Dumplings
- 1 cup almond flour
- 2 tablespoons psyllium husk powder
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons warm water
Instructions
Cook the Cabbage
Heat the butter or bacon fat in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the shredded cabbage and caraway seeds, stirring well to coat. Pour in the broth and apple cider vinegar, then season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cover the skillet and let the cabbage cook for 11–16 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and flavorful.
If you’re using bacon, cook it separately until crispy, then stir it into the cabbage just before serving.
Prepare the Low-Carb Dumplings
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, psyllium husk powder, baking powder, and salt. Add the melted butter, egg, and warm water, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Let the dough rest for about 6 minutes so it can thicken. Shape the dough into small dumplings, roughly 1 inch in size.
Bring a pot of water to a gentle simmer (not a rolling boil). Carefully add the dumplings and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until they float to the surface and feel firm. Remove them with a slotted spoon and allow them to drain.
Serve
Mix the dumplings directly into the cabbage for a traditional feel, or serve them on the side. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra bacon, or a sprinkle of cheese if desired.
Final Thoughts
This Low Carb German Cabbage and Dumplings recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy or carb-loaded. It’s warm, filling, and packed with flavor—everything you want in a cozy meal, made lighter and healthier. Whether you’re following a keto diet or simply cutting back on carbs, this dish is one you’ll want to make again and again.
Enjoy every bite of this guilt-free German classic! 🇩🇪🥬🍽️