35+ Delicious Friday Diabetic German Recipes for a Perfect Feast

Eating healthy doesn’t have to be bland or boring—especially when you can explore the delicious world of German cuisine!

If you’re looking to create flavorful, diabetic-friendly meals on Fridays, you’re in the right place.

German dishes are famous for their rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and comforting nature, and with a little modification, you can enjoy all the goodness without worrying about blood sugar spikes.

We’ve rounded up over 35 diabetic-friendly German recipes that are perfect for a Friday night feast.

From tangy sauerkraut and juicy sausages to savory stews and light salads, these recipes allow you to indulge in the best of German cuisine while keeping your health in mind.

Get ready to elevate your Friday dinners with these mouthwatering, diabetes-conscious options that are both delicious and nutritious.

35+ Delicious Friday Diabetic German Recipes for a Perfect Feast

When it comes to managing diabetes, finding recipes that are both flavorful and nutritious can sometimes feel challenging.

But as you can see, German cuisine offers a wide variety of options that are perfect for maintaining a balanced diet.

These 35+ diabetic-friendly German recipes provide a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and nutrients—ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty and healthy Friday meal.

Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, tangy, or even a little sweet, these recipes will keep your taste buds satisfied without compromising your health goals.

Whole-Grain Bavarian Pretzels with Herb Spread

Whole-grain Bavarian pretzels are a healthier twist on the traditional German snack. These soft pretzels are made with whole wheat flour, ensuring a higher fiber content suitable for managing blood sugar levels. Paired with a refreshing herb-based spread made with low-fat yogurt, this dish offers a delightful balance of taste and nutrition. Ideal for a diabetic-friendly Friday treat, this recipe keeps your blood sugar in check without compromising on authentic German flavors.

Ingredients

For the Pretzels:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup warm water
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for yeast activation)
• 1 tablespoon baking soda
• 4 cups water (for boiling)
• Coarse sea salt for sprinkling

For the Herb Spread:

• 1 cup low-fat yogurt
• 2 tablespoons chopped chives
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add honey if desired and let it sit for 5 minutes until bubbly. Combine the yeast mixture with whole wheat flour and salt, kneading into a smooth dough. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour.
2. Shape the Pretzels: Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a rope and shape into a pretzel. Let them rest for 15 minutes.
3. Boil the Pretzels: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil and add baking soda. Gently dip each pretzel into the water for 20-30 seconds, then place on a baking sheet.
4. Bake: Sprinkle coarse sea salt over the pretzels and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
5. Make the Herb Spread: In a bowl, mix yogurt, chives, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready to serve.

This recipe combines the rustic charm of traditional pretzels with a diabetic-friendly twist. Enjoy these wholesome Bavarian pretzels warm, accompanied by the creamy herb spread for a satisfying snack or light meal.

Braised Red Cabbage with Apples and Fennel

Braised red cabbage is a quintessential German side dish often served with hearty meals. This diabetic-friendly version skips the sugar and incorporates the natural sweetness of apples. Fennel adds an aromatic touch, enhancing the dish’s flavor profile. Rich in fiber and low on the glycemic index, this dish makes for a nutritious Friday meal that aligns with diabetic dietary needs.

Ingredients

• 1 medium red cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
• 1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the fennel and sauté until slightly softened.
2. Cook the Cabbage: Add the red cabbage and caraway seeds to the pan, stirring well. Cook for 5 minutes until the cabbage starts to soften.
3. Add Apples and Vinegar: Stir in the apples and apple cider vinegar. Cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and let the mixture simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Season and Serve: Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm as a side dish or light vegetarian option.

This vibrant dish pairs perfectly with proteins or can stand alone as a nutritious, low-calorie meal. The natural sweetness of apples complements the tangy vinegar, creating a balanced flavor profile that keeps blood sugar levels stable.

Low-Carb Zwiebelkuchen (Onion Tart)

Zwiebelkuchen, or German onion tart, is traditionally rich and hearty. This diabetic-friendly adaptation uses a low-carb almond flour crust and a reduced-fat filling to offer the same satisfying flavors while keeping carbohydrate content low. This dish is perfect for a cozy Friday dinner that feels indulgent yet supports your health goals.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups almond flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Filling:

• 3 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup low-fat Greek yogurt
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Make the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix almond flour, salt, egg, and olive oil in a bowl to form a dough. Press the dough into a tart pan and bake for 10 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a pan, sauté onions until golden brown. Let them cool slightly.
3. Combine and Bake: In a bowl, whisk eggs, yogurt, nutmeg, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir in the onions. Pour the mixture over the pre-baked crust. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the filling is set and slightly golden.
4. Cool and Serve: Let the tart cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

This low-carb Zwiebelkuchen offers the comforting flavors of a traditional German onion tart while being mindful of blood sugar levels. The creamy filling and crumbly almond crust make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing with family or friends.

German Cucumber Salad (Gurkensalat)

Gurkensalat is a refreshing German cucumber salad that’s light, tangy, and ideal for a diabetic-friendly meal. Made with fresh cucumbers and a yogurt-based dressing, this salad is low in carbohydrates and high in hydration, making it a great choice for maintaining blood sugar stability. Its simplicity and vibrant flavor make it perfect for a casual Friday lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
• ½ cup low-fat yogurt
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cucumbers: Thinly slice cucumbers using a mandoline or knife. Place them in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for 15 minutes to remove excess water. Pat dry with a towel.
2. Make the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper.
3. Combine and Chill: Add the cucumbers to the dressing, mix well, and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

This cooling salad is perfect on its own or as a side dish. Its crisp texture and tangy flavors make it a standout addition to any diabetic-friendly meal plan.

Sauerbraten-Inspired Lentil Stew

This vegetarian take on Sauerbraten, a traditional German pot roast, substitutes meat with lentils for a high-fiber, low-fat alternative that’s great for diabetics. Infused with vinegar, herbs, and warming spices, this stew offers the signature tangy flavor of Sauerbraten in a hearty, plant-based form.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
2. Add Lentils and Spices: Add lentils, vegetable broth, vinegar, mustard, paprika, and cloves. Stir well.
3. Simmer: Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the lentils are tender. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve: Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

This lentil stew delivers the comforting flavors of traditional Sauerbraten while offering a lighter, diabetic-friendly option. It’s an excellent choice for a nourishing and flavorful Friday dinner.

Low-Carb German Rouladen Wraps

Rouladen is a classic German dish traditionally made with rolled beef and rich fillings. This lighter version uses lean turkey breast and skips the carb-heavy additions, replacing them with a mix of vegetables and mustard for a balanced, diabetic-friendly dish.

Ingredients

• 4 slices lean turkey breast or chicken breast
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 small carrot, julienned
• 1 small pickle, julienned
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions

1. Prepare the Wraps: Spread mustard over each turkey slice. Add onion, carrot, and pickle strips in the center. Roll tightly and secure with toothpicks.
2. Cook the Rouladen: Heat olive oil in a pan and brown the rouladen on all sides. Add chicken broth, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
3. Serve: Remove toothpicks before serving. Pair with steamed vegetables or a small side salad.

These wraps capture the essence of traditional Rouladen in a leaner, healthier format. The mix of tangy mustard and crunchy vegetables makes this dish satisfying and perfect for a Friday treat.

Spelt Flour Apple Pancakes (Apfelpfannkuchen)

These diabetic-friendly German apple pancakes are made with spelt flour, a low-glycemic alternative to regular wheat flour. Sweetened naturally with apples and cinnamon, they make for a wholesome breakfast or dessert that’s both delicious and healthy.

Ingredients

• 1 cup spelt flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 medium apple, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon olive oil (for cooking)

Instructions

1. Mix the Batter: In a bowl, combine spelt flour, baking powder, and cinnamon. Whisk in the egg and almond milk until smooth.
2. Cook the Pancakes: Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour batter into the pan, adding a few apple slices on top. Cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden.
3. Serve: Serve warm with a dollop of low-fat yogurt or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

These pancakes are a guilt-free indulgence that combines German tradition with a diabetic-conscious approach. They are light, fluffy, and brimming with natural sweetness.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Mustard Sauce

This simple yet flavorful dish combines roasted Brussels sprouts with a tangy mustard sauce for a diabetic-friendly side or main course. Packed with fiber and antioxidants, it’s a great way to enjoy German-inspired flavors in a healthy, modern dish.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey or stevia (optional)

Instructions

1. Roast the Brussels Sprouts: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring once.
2. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mustard, lemon juice, and honey or stevia if using.
3. Combine and Serve: Drizzle the mustard sauce over the roasted Brussels sprouts and toss to coat. Serve warm.

This dish is an excellent way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal with minimal effort. The combination of roasted vegetables and zesty mustard sauce is both satisfying and diabetes-friendly.

German Chicken and Mushroom Stew (Hähnchen-Mushroom Eintopf)

This hearty and comforting German chicken and mushroom stew is low in carbs and high in protein, making it a great diabetic-friendly option. The rich combination of chicken, mushrooms, and vegetables in a flavorful broth makes it a perfect Friday dinner to enjoy without worrying about blood sugar spikes.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and carrots, cooking until softened.
2. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add the Mushrooms and Broth: Stir in the mushrooms, thyme, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

This stew offers a balanced mix of protein and vegetables, perfect for a diabetic-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The earthy mushrooms complement the tender chicken, creating a comforting dish ideal for a cozy Friday evening.

Cauliflower and Sausage Bake (Blumenkohl und Wurst Auflauf)

This German-inspired cauliflower and sausage bake combines the savory flavors of sausage with the mild taste of cauliflower, making it a filling, low-carb, and diabetic-friendly meal. It’s a one-pan dish that’s perfect for a stress-free Friday dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 German sausages (e.g., bratwurst or turkey sausage), sliced
• 1 cup shredded low-fat cheese (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
2. Cook the Sausages: In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage slices and cook until browned and cooked through.
3. Combine and Bake: In a baking dish, combine the cooked cauliflower and sausage. Sprinkle with paprika, salt, and pepper. Top with shredded cheese, if using.
4. Bake: Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve: Serve warm as a satisfying, low-carb meal.

This bake brings together the hearty flavors of sausage and cauliflower, creating a balanced, filling dish that fits perfectly into a diabetic-friendly meal plan. It’s a great way to enjoy German-inspired comfort food with fewer carbs.

Low-Carb German Potato Salad (Kartoffelsalat)

A traditional German potato salad is often made with mayonnaise, but this low-carb version swaps the potatoes for cauliflower to reduce the carbohydrate content while still providing the creamy, tangy flavors of the original. This salad is ideal for anyone watching their blood sugar levels and wanting a lighter take on a German classic.

Ingredients

• 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Steam the cauliflower florets for about 8-10 minutes, until tender but still firm.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Combine the Salad: Toss the steamed cauliflower with the chopped onion and dressing. Stir in fresh parsley and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Chill and Serve: Let the salad chill for 30 minutes in the fridge before serving.

This low-carb potato salad is a light, tangy alternative to the traditional version, making it a perfect addition to a diabetic-friendly meal. The cauliflower provides the same satisfying texture as potatoes but with fewer carbs, making this salad a healthier option for any occasion.

German Fish Fillet with Dill Sauce (Fischfilet mit Dillsoße)

This simple and flavorful German fish fillet with dill sauce is a light, healthy, and diabetic-friendly meal. The mild taste of the fish is complemented by a creamy, tangy dill sauce, making it an ideal dish for a Friday dinner that’s low in carbohydrates but high in flavor.

Ingredients

• 4 white fish fillets (e.g., cod or haddock)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dill Sauce:

• ½ cup low-fat Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the fish fillets with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat, and cook the fish fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden and cooked through.
2. Make the Dill Sauce: In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Serve: Serve the cooked fish fillets with a generous spoonful of dill sauce on top.

This dish offers a refreshing, protein-packed meal with the zesty flavors of dill sauce. It’s a wonderful diabetic-friendly option that brings the best of German cuisine in a healthy, light format.

German Cabbage and Sausage Skillet (Kohl und Wurst Pfanne)

This German cabbage and sausage skillet is a comforting, one-pan dish that’s low in carbohydrates and full of flavor. Packed with fiber from cabbage and protein from sausage, it’s a filling meal that fits perfectly into a diabetic-friendly diet. The savory blend of cabbage and sausage, along with a touch of mustard, gives it a satisfying flavor that’s ideal for a hearty Friday dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 German sausages (e.g., bratwurst or turkey sausage), sliced
• 4 cups cabbage, shredded
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• ½ teaspoon caraway seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Sausages: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage slices and cook until browned. Remove the sausages from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened. Add the shredded cabbage, mustard, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
3. Combine: Return the sausages to the pan and mix everything together. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve: Serve the skillet dish warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

This dish combines the classic German flavors of cabbage and sausage in a simple, one-pan meal. It’s a low-carb, filling, and delicious option for a diabetic-friendly Friday dinner.

German Spinach and Ricotta Dumplings (Spinat Ricotta Knödel)

These spinach and ricotta dumplings are a diabetic-friendly twist on the traditional German Knödel. Instead of the typical bread-based dumplings, this version uses spinach and ricotta to create a lighter, lower-carb alternative. They’re a great option for a Friday meal, packed with nutrients and rich in flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• ½ cup almond flour
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dumplings: Steam or sauté the spinach until wilted, then chop it finely. In a bowl, mix the spinach, ricotta cheese, egg, almond flour, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
2. Shape the Dumplings: With your hands, form the mixture into small dumplings, about the size of a golf ball.
3. Cook the Dumplings: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the dumplings into the water and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
4. Serve: Serve the dumplings with a drizzle of olive oil or a low-fat sauce.

These spinach and ricotta dumplings are a light and healthy alternative to traditional potato-based Knödel. The combination of spinach and ricotta makes for a satisfying dish, rich in nutrients and low in carbs, perfect for a diabetic-friendly meal.

German Roasted Chicken with Caraway and Lemon (Brathähnchen mit Kümmel und Zitrone)

Roasted chicken is a classic German dish, and this version, flavored with caraway and lemon, offers a deliciously simple yet elegant diabetic-friendly meal. The chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, with the distinct flavor of caraway seeds and the brightness of lemon. It’s an excellent option for a Friday dinner that’s both satisfying and health-conscious.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 lemon, quartered
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry and season with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and caraway seeds. Drizzle with olive oil.
2. Roast the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet. Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken and place the lemon quarters around the chicken. Roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
3. Serve: Serve the roasted chicken with the lemon wedges and a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad.

This German roasted chicken recipe is full of flavor with minimal effort, making it a perfect low-carb option for a Friday meal. The caraway seeds and lemon enhance the chicken’s natural flavors, creating a delightful and healthy dish.

German Cabbage Soup with Smoked Sausage (Kohl Suppe mit Räuchersalami)

A warming and comforting German cabbage soup with smoked sausage is a great diabetic-friendly meal. The smoky flavor of the sausage, combined with the heartiness of the cabbage, creates a nourishing and filling soup that is low in carbs and full of vitamins. It’s the perfect meal for a chilly Friday evening, offering both comfort and nutrition.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cabbage, chopped
• 2 smoked sausages, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Sausages: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausages and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and carrots, cooking until softened.
3. Make the Soup: Add the chopped cabbage, paprika, chicken broth, and the cooked sausages to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 25-30 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
4. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the soup hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

This German cabbage soup with smoked sausage is a hearty and satisfying meal that is low in carbs and high in fiber. It’s perfect for a diabetic-friendly Friday dinner, offering both warmth and nutritional benefits.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!