German-Style Cabbage and Beans is a hearty, simple dish that brings together tender cabbage and creamy beans with just the right touch of seasoning. It’s the kind of meal that feels cozy and filling, perfect for a chilly day or when you want something wholesome without too much fuss. The cabbage softens nicely while the beans add a gentle texture, making every bite satisfying.
I love making this dish because it’s a great way to enjoy vegetables in a way that feels really comforting. The combination of cabbage and beans reminds me of traditional home cooking, where flavors are straightforward but full of warmth. I usually add a bit of smoky sausage or bacon for extra flavor, but it’s just as good keeping it simple and letting the vegetables shine.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this is alongside some crusty bread or with a dollop of mustard on the side. It’s a great meal that comes together quickly and sticks with you, perfect for lunchtime or a casual dinner with friends and family. You don’t need many ingredients, and it’s wonderful when you want something that feels like a hug on a plate.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green and Red Cabbage: Both give flavor and color. Green cabbage is mild, and red adds sweetness and vibrancy. If you can’t find red cabbage, all green works fine.
Green Beans: Fresh is best for crunch. Frozen can be used but cook briefly to avoid sogginess.
White Beans: Cannellini or navy beans are creamy and mild. Canned works well—just rinse to reduce sodium. For a different texture, try chickpeas.
Bacon or Vegan Bacon Bits: Bacon adds smoky richness, but vegan bacon bits or smoked paprika can give a similar flavor for a vegetarian option.
Caraway Seeds: These add a classic tangy taste. If you don’t have any, a pinch of fennel or cumin seeds gives a warm hint of spice.
How Do I Cook the Cabbage and Beans So They Stay Tender but Not Mushy?
Maintaining cabbage and beans tender but not mushy is key. Here’s how to get it right:
- Cook the cabbage slowly over medium heat until it softens but still has some bite (about 8-10 minutes).
- Simmer it covered with broth to gently steam and flavor the cabbage without overcooking.
- Blanch green beans separately in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to keep their crunch, then add them at the end.
- Add cooked beans and bacon bits toward the end just to warm through—too long and beans can fall apart.
- Use gentle heat during the final steps to let flavors blend without turning ingredients mushy.
Taking your time with each step makes a big difference—slow and steady avoids overcooked veggies and helps keep those textures perfect.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large sauté pan or skillet – great for cooking cabbage evenly and giving you enough space to mix in all ingredients.
- Medium pot – perfect for blanching green beans quickly without overcooking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – lets you stir gently without damaging the pan or cabbage.
- Colander – useful for draining beans and green beans after rinsing or blanching.
- Knife and cutting board – to chop cabbage, onion, and garlic easily and safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add smoked sausage instead of bacon for a meatier German-style flavor that pairs well with the cabbage.
- Stir in a handful of dill or caraway seeds for more herbal depth and a traditional touch.
- Use white kale or savoy cabbage instead of green cabbage for a slightly different texture and taste.
- Mix in some diced potatoes in step 3 for a heartier dish that’s almost like a stew.
How to Make German-Style Cabbage and Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups green cabbage, chopped
- 2 cups red cabbage, chopped
- 1 ½ cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-2 inch pieces
- 1 cup cooked white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans)
- 4 oz bacon, diced (or vegan bacon bits if preferred)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or bacon fat
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- ½ cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Time Needed
This dish takes about 30 minutes total—10 minutes to prep your veggies and bacon, then 20 minutes to cook everything together and blend the flavors beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon
Heat the oil or bacon fat in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced bacon and cook until crisp. Remove the bacon bits and set aside, but keep the flavorful fat in the pan for the next steps.
2. Sauté Onion, Garlic, and Spices
In the same pan, add the chopped onion and sauté it until translucent, about 4 minutes. Then stir in minced garlic and caraway seeds (if using). Cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Cabbage
Add the green and red cabbage to the pan. Stir so they mix well with the onion and fats. Let the cabbage cook, stirring here and there, until it starts to soften—about 8 to 10 minutes.
4. Simmer with Broth
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, cover the pan, and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes until the cabbage is tender and nice and flavorful.
5. Prepare Green Beans
While the cabbage simmers, blanch the green beans in boiling salted water for 2-3 minutes so they stay crisp and bright. Drain and add them to the cabbage mixture.
6. Combine Beans and Bacon
Stir in the cooked white beans and reserved bacon bits back into the pan. Mix gently to combine.
7. Finish and Season
Drizzle apple cider vinegar over the mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let all the flavors blend beautifully.
8. Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat and sprinkle fresh parsley on top if you like. Serve warm as a hearty side dish or a light main meal.
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen green beans work fine! Just thaw and drain them well before adding to avoid extra moisture. Add them toward the end and cook briefly to keep their texture.
Is There a Vegetarian Version of This Dish?
Absolutely! Skip the bacon and use vegan bacon bits or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. Use vegetable broth to keep it fully vegetarian or vegan.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, it tastes great reheated! Make it a day ahead, then reheat slowly on the stove. The flavors often deepen after resting overnight.