Apple and Noodle Kugel

Apple and Noodle Kugel Recipe from Germany

Region / culture: Germany | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Apple and Noodle Kugel is a delightful dish that combines the sweet and savory flavors of apples, noodles, and a rich blend of dairy to create a comforting and satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the fusion of textures and tastes, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings, holiday meals, or simply as a cozy dish to enjoy any time of the year.

History

The origins of Kugel date back to the 13th century in Germany, where it began as a simple bread dumpling. Over the centuries, it evolved into a baked pudding that could be sweet or savory, depending on the ingredients used. Jewish communities across Eastern Europe adopted and adapted the recipe, incorporating local ingredients and flavors. The Apple and Noodle Kugel is a variant that combines the traditional egg noodle base with the sweetness of apples and raisins, reflecting the adaptability and creativity of this beloved dish.

Ingredients

4 eggs
1 lb (454 g) creamed cottage cheese
1 cup dairy sour cream
0.25 cup sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
0.75 tsp salt (optional)
0.5 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups green apples, peeled and diced
1 cup dark raisins
0.5 lb (227 g) medium-width egg noodles, slightly undercooked and drained (4 cups)
2 tbsp butter or margarine
0.5 cup cornflake crumbs
0.25 cup blanched slivered almonds

How to prepare

In a large bowl, beat the eggs together with cottage cheese, sour cream, sugar, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and vanilla.
Stir the mixture until well combined.
Add the apples, raisins, and noodles to the bowl, and stir until everything is well mixed.
Pour the mixture into a buttered baking dish measuring 12x8x2 inches.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter.
Stir in the cornflake crumbs and almonds.
Spoon this mixture over the noodle mixture in the baking dish.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 40 minutes, or until the crumbs turn golden brown.
If desired, serve with sour cream and garnish with ground nutmeg.

Variations

For a healthier version, use whole wheat noodles and low-fat dairy products.
Add a crunchy topping by mixing in chopped walnuts or pecans with the cornflake crumbs.
Incorporate other dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Apple and Noodle Kugel turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Slightly undercook the noodles before baking, as they will continue to cook in the oven.

- Use a variety of apples for a more complex flavor. Mixing tart and sweet apples can enhance the taste.

- For a creamier texture, ensure the cottage cheese and sour cream are fully blended into the eggs before adding other ingredients.

- To prevent the top from burning, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil for the first 20 minutes of baking, then remove to allow the topping to crisp.

Serving Suggestions

Apple and Noodle Kugel can be served as a main dish or a side. It pairs wonderfully with a light salad to balance the richness of the kugel. For a festive occasion, it can be served alongside roasted meats or poultry.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, which allows for the flavors to meld together beautifully and creates a delightful contrast between the creamy interior and the crispy topping.

Ingredient Substitutions

Gluten-free noodles can be used for a gluten-free version.

- Honey or maple syrup can replace sugar for a natural sweetener option.

- Vegan substitutes for dairy and eggs can be used to make a vegan version of this dish.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator before baking. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the kugel in a beautiful baking dish garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a few apple slices for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Apple and Noodle Kugel pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as a Riesling or Chardonnay, which complements the sweetness of the apples and the richness of the dairy.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Apple and Noodle Kugel contains approximately 300-350 calories. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Carbohydrates

This Apple and Noodle Kugel recipe is relatively high in carbohydrates, primarily due to the noodles, apples, and sugar. A single serving provides approximately 45-55 grams of carbohydrates. The exact amount can vary based on the types of apples and noodles used.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come from several sources, including the eggs, cottage cheese, sour cream, and margarine. A serving of Apple and Noodle Kugel contains about 10-15 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats. Opting for low-fat dairy products can reduce the fat content.

Proteins

Protein in this dish is provided by the eggs, cottage cheese, and to a lesser extent, the noodles. Each serving contains approximately 10-12 grams of protein, making it a moderate source of this essential nutrient.

Vitamins and minerals

Apple and Noodle Kugel is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the dairy ingredients, vitamin C from the apples, and various B vitamins from the eggs and noodles. It also provides iron and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs, dairy, and gluten. Those with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dish or seek suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Apple and Noodle Kugel is a comforting and satisfying dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. However, it is relatively high in calories and contains common allergens, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Apple and Noodle Kugel is a versatile and delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of apples, noodles, and dairy. With its rich history and adaptability to various dietary needs, it's a wonderful addition to any meal. Whether enjoyed as a holiday treat or a cozy family dinner, this kugel is sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Apple and Noodle Kugel. It was a rainy afternoon, and I was rummaging through my old recipe box, looking for something new to try. As soon as I laid eyes on the faded index card with the handwritten instructions, I knew I had stumbled upon something special.

The recipe had been given to me by my neighbor, Mrs. Rosenberg, many years ago. She was a kind and generous woman, always willing to share her culinary secrets with me. I remember the day she invited me into her kitchen to watch her make this dish. The aroma of cinnamon and apples filled the air as she gently stirred the noodles and fruit together, creating a warm and comforting meal that reminded me of home.

As I watched Mrs. Rosenberg work her magic, I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish myself. So, I asked her for the recipe, and she happily obliged, writing it down on a small index card and handing it to me with a smile.

Over the years, I have made this Apple and Noodle Kugel countless times, each time tweaking the recipe slightly to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I add a little extra cinnamon for a spicier flavor, or a handful of raisins for a touch of sweetness. But no matter how I choose to prepare it, the dish always brings back memories of Mrs. Rosenberg and the day she introduced me to this delicious recipe.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing it down from generation to generation. Each time I make it, I can feel Mrs. Rosenberg's presence in my kitchen, guiding me as I stir the ingredients together and bake the kugel to golden perfection.

One of my fondest memories of making this dish was when my granddaughter, Sarah, came to visit me for the weekend. She had always been curious about my cooking and loved to help me in the kitchen. So, I decided to teach her how to make the Apple and Noodle Kugel.

As we gathered the ingredients and measured out the spices, I told Sarah the story of how I had learned the recipe from Mrs. Rosenberg all those years ago. I could see the same sense of wonder and excitement in her eyes that I had felt when I first discovered the recipe.

Together, we mixed the noodles and apples, sprinkling in the cinnamon and sugar with care. As the kugel baked in the oven, filling the house with its delicious aroma, Sarah and I sat at the kitchen table, sharing stories and laughter.

When the kugel was finally done, we took it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before digging in. The noodles were soft and creamy, the apples sweet and tender. As we savored each bite, I knew that this dish would always hold a special place in my heart, connecting me to the past and the loved ones who had shared it with me.

As I look back on that rainy afternoon when I first discovered the recipe for Apple and Noodle Kugel, I am filled with gratitude for Mrs. Rosenberg and all the other people who have shared their culinary wisdom with me over the years. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others, to share stories and memories as we gather around the table to enjoy a delicious meal together.

And so, as I pass on this recipe to the next generation, I do so with love and gratitude, knowing that it will continue to bring joy and comfort to all who taste it. I may have learned how to make Apple and Noodle Kugel from Mrs. Rosenberg, but the true magic of this dish lies in the memories and traditions that it carries with it.