Brotknoedel
Brotknoedel Recipe - Traditional German Dish with Eggs and Parsley
Introduction
Brotknoedel, also known as bread dumplings, is a traditional German dish that is popular in Bavaria and other regions of Germany. These dumplings are made from stale bread, eggs, milk, and seasonings, and are typically served as a side dish with hearty meat dishes or in soups.
History
Brotknoedel has been a staple in German cuisine for centuries, with recipes dating back to the Middle Ages. Originally created as a way to use up stale bread, these dumplings have evolved over time to become a beloved comfort food in many German households.
Ingredients
- 4 kaiser rolls, thinly sliced
- breadcrumbs, as needed
- 2 eggs
- A few stems of parsley, finely chopped
- 0.5 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- salt and pepper, to taste
How to prepare
- Soak the rolls in lukewarm milk for 0.5 hour. Then, add the remaining ingredients and mix well. If the mixture is too wet, add some breadcrumbs. Shape the mixture into dumplings. Carefully place the dumplings into barely salted, simmering water and cook for 25 minutes. Serve the dumplings as an accompaniment to sauces, mushrooms, or in soups.
Variations
- Add cooked bacon or sausage to the dumpling mixture for added flavor.
- Use different types of bread, such as rye or whole wheat, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to soak the bread in milk for at least 30 minutes to ensure that the dumplings are moist and tender.
- Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough dumplings.
- To test if the dumplings are cooked through, insert a toothpick into the center - it should come out clean when they are done.
Serving Suggestions
Brotknoedel pairs well with rich meat dishes such as roast pork or beef stew. They can also be served in a clear broth or mushroom sauce for a lighter meal.
Cooking Techniques
Brotknoedel is typically boiled in water, but they can also be baked in the oven for a crispy exterior.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have kaiser rolls, you can use any type of stale bread, such as baguette or ciabatta.
- Instead of milk, you can use vegetable or chicken broth for a savory twist.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the dumpling mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to cook. This makes it a great dish for entertaining or busy weeknights.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Brotknoedel on a platter garnished with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Brotknoedel pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover Brotknoedel can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply steam or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Brotknoedel contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Brotknoedel contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Brotknoedel contains approximately 8 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Brotknoedel contains approximately 6 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Brotknoedel is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin B12.
Alergens
Brotknoedel contains gluten, eggs, and dairy.
Summary
Brotknoedel is a hearty and satisfying dish that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Brotknoedel is a classic German dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. Whether served as a side dish or as the main attraction, these dumplings are sure to be a hit at your next meal.
How did I get this recipe?
I have a strong memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Brotknoedel. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Germany. My grandmother, who was an amazing cook, had invited me into her kitchen to watch her make this traditional dish.
I remember the smell of fresh bread filling the air as she tore it into small pieces and soaked it in warm milk. She added onions, garlic, and parsley, along with eggs and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. I watched in awe as she mixed everything together, forming the mixture into small round dumplings.
As the Brotknoedel cooked in a pot of simmering water, the aroma intensified, making my mouth water in anticipation. When they were done, my grandmother carefully lifted them out with a slotted spoon and placed them on a platter. She drizzled them with melted butter and sprinkled them with fresh parsley before serving.
I couldn't wait to try them, and when I did, I was blown away by the flavor and texture. The Brotknoedel were soft and tender on the inside, with a crispy golden crust on the outside. They were the perfect combination of savory and comforting, and I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make them myself.
Over the years, I watched my grandmother make Brotknoedel countless times, always paying close attention to her every move. I took mental notes of her techniques and ingredients, and eventually, I started making them on my own. I experimented with different variations, adding ingredients like bacon, mushrooms, and even cheese to create my own unique twist on the classic recipe.
As I grew older and started a family of my own, I passed down the recipe for Brotknoedel to my children and grandchildren. It became a staple at our family gatherings, a dish that everyone looked forward to and enjoyed. I shared the story of how I learned to make Brotknoedel with them, hoping to inspire them to carry on the tradition for generations to come.
One day, as I was flipping through an old cookbook that had belonged to my grandmother, I came across a handwritten note tucked inside the pages. It was a recipe for Brotknoedel, written in her elegant cursive handwriting. My heart swelled with nostalgia as I read the familiar instructions, realizing that this was the very recipe that had inspired me all those years ago.
I felt a deep connection to my grandmother in that moment, knowing that her love for cooking and sharing her recipes had shaped me into the cook I had become. I vowed to continue passing down the tradition of making Brotknoedel to future generations, keeping her memory alive through the timeless art of cooking.
And so, every time I make Brotknoedel now, I think of my grandmother and the legacy she left behind. I am grateful for the time I spent in her kitchen, watching and learning from her, and I cherish the memories we created together over a steaming pot of dumplings. The recipe for Brotknoedel will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the bond between generations and the power of sharing food with those we love.
Categories
| German Recipes | German Snacks |