Apple Kugel I

Apple Kugel I Recipe from Germany with Cream Cheese and Cottage Cheese

Region / culture: Germany | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Apple Kugel I is a delightful and comforting dish that combines the sweet and tart flavors of apples with the creamy texture of noodles and cheese. This recipe is a modern twist on a traditional Jewish dish, often served during holidays and family gatherings. It's a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a dessert, a side dish, or even a main course for a light meal. The combination of spices, fruits, and dairy creates a unique taste experience that's both satisfying and nutritious.

History

The history of kugel dates back to the 13th century in Germany, where it began as a savory pudding made from bread and flour. Over time, Jewish communities across Eastern Europe adapted the recipe, incorporating local ingredients and flavors. The introduction of noodles and sweet variations, like the Apple Kugel, emerged as Jewish cuisine evolved. Today, kugel is a staple in Jewish households, especially during Sabbath meals and festivals like Passover and Hanukkah, symbolizing tradition, comfort, and joy.

Ingredients

4 cups uncooked egg noodles
8 oz (227 g) reduced-fat cream cheese
0.5 cup brown sugar
1 lb (454 g) low-fat cottage cheese
1 egg
2 egg whites
1 tsp vanilla extract
0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
0.25 tsp ground nutmeg
2 Rome Beauty apples

How to prepare

Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until they are just tender. Drain them.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl with an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese and brown sugar until they are well blended.
Add the cottage cheese, egg, egg whites, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg, and continue beating until they are combined.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Lightly grease an 8- or 9-inch square pan.
Core, quarter, and thinly slice the apples. Stir the apple slices and cooked noodles into the cheese mixture.
Spread the mixture in the pan and bake for 45 minutes or until the kugel is golden and firm.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, substitute the egg noodles with your favorite gluten-free noodles.
Add raisins or dried cranberries to the apple mixture for an extra burst of sweetness and texture.
Incorporate a crunchy topping by mixing breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkling it over the kugel before baking.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

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

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

- Ensure the egg noodles are cooked al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy after baking.

- For a smoother texture, blend the cottage cheese in a food processor before adding it to the mixture.

- Allow the kugel to cool for a few minutes before serving; this helps it set and makes it easier to cut into portions.

Serving Suggestions

Apple Kugel I can be served warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for extra sweetness. For a festive occasion, garnish with fresh apple slices or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, providing a golden crust and ensuring the ingredients meld together beautifully. Beating the cheese and sugar mixture with an electric mixer ensures a smooth and creamy texture, crucial for the overall mouthfeel of the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have reduced-fat cream cheese, you can use full-fat cream cheese for a richer taste.

- Substitute the brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for a different type of sweetness.

- Greek yogurt can replace the cottage cheese for a tangier flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Apple Kugel I can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together more fully. Simply cover the unbaked kugel with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to bring it closer to room temperature.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the kugel in a beautiful ceramic dish for a rustic and homey presentation. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon and fresh apple slices arranged in a fan shape on top. A sprig of mint can add a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Apple Kugel I pairs wonderfully with a light and crisp white wine, such as a Riesling or a Gewürztraminer. These wines complement the sweetness of the apples and the richness of the dairy. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling apple cider or a cinnamon-spiced tea would be delightful.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Apple Kugel I can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with aluminum foil and warm in a 350°F (177°C) oven for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the noodles soggy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Apple Kugel I contains approximately 350 calories. This moderate calorie content makes it a suitable option for a dessert or side dish as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Apple Kugel I contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this dish are the egg noodles and apples, which provide energy and dietary fiber. Brown sugar also contributes to the carbohydrate content, adding sweetness and flavor.

Fats

This recipe contains about 10 grams of fat per serving, with reduced-fat cream cheese and low-fat cottage cheese as the main sources. These dairy products contribute to the creamy texture of the kugel while keeping the fat content relatively low. The inclusion of one whole egg and two egg whites also adds a small amount of healthy fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Apple Kugel I offers approximately 15 grams of protein, primarily from the cottage cheese, cream cheese, and eggs. These high-quality protein sources are essential for building and repairing tissues and maintaining muscle mass.

Vitamins and minerals

Apple Kugel I is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the dairy ingredients, which is crucial for bone health. Apples provide vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system, and potassium, which is important for heart health. The eggs contribute to the intake of vitamin D, essential for calcium absorption and bone health.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as dairy (cream cheese and cottage cheese) and eggs. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dish or seek suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Apple Kugel I is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a comforting and satisfying option that can fit into a healthy, balanced diet.

Summary

Apple Kugel I is a versatile and comforting dish that combines the sweet flavors of apples with the creamy texture of noodles and cheese. It's a nutritious option that can be enjoyed in various ways and fits into a balanced diet. With its rich history and the ability to adapt to different tastes and dietary needs, this recipe is sure to become a cherished addition to your cooking repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a chilly autumn day, and I was visiting my friend Sarah who had just returned from a trip to Israel. She had brought back with her a cookbook filled with traditional Jewish recipes, and as we flipped through the pages, one particular recipe caught my eye - Apple Kugel.

I had never heard of Apple Kugel before, but the combination of sweet apples, cinnamon, and noodles sounded absolutely delicious. Sarah explained to me that Kugel is a traditional Jewish dish that is typically served on holidays and special occasions, and that each family has their own unique version of the recipe.

As we read through the ingredients and instructions, I felt a surge of excitement. I had always loved experimenting in the kitchen and trying new recipes, and I knew that I had to give Apple Kugel a try. Sarah offered to teach me how to make it, and we spent the afternoon gathering the ingredients and preparing the dish together.

The process was surprisingly simple and straightforward. We started by boiling the noodles until they were al dente, then mixed in the apples, sugar, cinnamon, and eggs. The mixture was then poured into a baking dish and baked until golden and bubbly. The aroma that filled the kitchen as the Apple Kugel cooked was absolutely heavenly - sweet and spicy with a hint of warmth.

When the dish was finally ready, we couldn't wait to dig in. The Apple Kugel was everything I had hoped for and more - sweet and creamy with a perfect balance of flavors. It was a dish that tasted like home, like tradition, like comfort.

From that day on, Apple Kugel became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for every holiday, every special occasion, and sometimes just because. I loved the way it brought people together, how it evoked memories of that first time I made it with Sarah.

Over the years, I continued to make Apple Kugel, tweaking the recipe here and there to make it my own. I added raisins for a bit of chewiness, swapped out the white sugar for honey for a touch of sweetness, and even experimented with different types of apples to see how they would affect the flavor.

But no matter how many variations I tried, the essence of the dish remained the same - a warm, comforting embrace in the form of a sweet and savory casserole. It became a recipe that I shared with my own children and grandchildren, passing down the tradition from one generation to the next.

And as I sit here now, reflecting on all the memories and moments that Apple Kugel has brought into my life, I am filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the friends and family who have gathered around my table to enjoy this dish, for the traditions that have been passed down through the generations, and for the simple joy of creating something delicious from scratch.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a little comfort or a taste of home, just remember - there's nothing quite like a warm slice of Apple Kugel to lift your spirits and warm your soul.