German Style Spätzle
Authentic German Style Spätzle Recipe - Traditional Noodles from Germany
Introduction
German Style Spätzle is a traditional German egg noodle dish that is easy to make and incredibly delicious. These soft and tender noodles are perfect for soaking up rich sauces or serving as a side dish with meats and vegetables.
History
Spätzle has been a staple in German cuisine for centuries, with its origins dating back to the Swabian region of Germany. The name "Spätzle" comes from the German word "spatzen," which means "little sparrows," referring to the shape of the noodles. Originally, Spätzle was made by hand, using a special tool to press the dough through boiling water. Today, there are various tools and techniques for making Spätzle, but the traditional recipe remains a favorite among German households.
Ingredients
Noodles
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- milk to make 1 cup liquid total
- 1 pinch of white pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dill
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 pot of boiling water
- 0.25 stick of butter
Bread crumb seasoning
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 0.5 tsp onion powder
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp dill
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp pepper
- 0.5 tsp nutmeg
- 0.5 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp dried parsley
How to prepare
- Melt the butter in a skillet.
- Combine the dry ingredients.
- Break the eggs into a measuring cup and add milk to make 1 cup. Beat the mixture.
- Fold the mixture into the dry ingredients.
- Press the mixture through a spätzle press into boiling water.
- Skim off the noodles when they float and sauté them in the skillet.
- In a food processor, blend the ingredients for the dredge (breadcrumb seasoning), except for the parsley. Fold in the parsley by hand before using.
- Sprinkle the seasoned breadcrumbs over the sautéed spätzle and toss them together.
Variations
- Add grated cheese to the breadcrumb seasoning for a cheesy twist.
- Mix in chopped herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor.
- Substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier version of Spätzle.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to use a spätzle press or a colander with large holes to shape the noodles.
- Do not overmix the dough, as this can result in tough noodles.
- Be sure to sauté the noodles in butter after boiling to add flavor and prevent sticking.
- The breadcrumb seasoning adds a delicious crunch to the dish, so be generous with it.
Serving Suggestions
German Style Spätzle can be served as a side dish with roasted meats, stews, or sautéed vegetables. It pairs well with creamy sauces or gravy.
Cooking Techniques
Use a spätzle press or a colander with large holes to shape the noodles.
- Sauté the noodles in butter after boiling to add flavor and prevent sticking.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
- Substitute vegetable broth for water for added flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
German Style Spätzle can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a little butter before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve German Style Spätzle in a decorative bowl garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
Pairing Recommendations
German Style Spätzle pairs well with roasted chicken, pork chops, or beef stew. It also goes well with a side of sauerkraut or red cabbage.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover German Style Spätzle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a little butter until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of German Style Spätzle contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of German Style Spätzle contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of German Style Spätzle contains approximately 8 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of German Style Spätzle contains approximately 6 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
German Style Spätzle is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin B12.
Alergens
German Style Spätzle contains gluten, eggs, and dairy.
Summary
German Style Spätzle is a carb-rich dish that provides a good balance of fats and proteins. It is also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
German Style Spätzle is a classic German dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can enjoy this delicious noodle dish at home. Serve it as a side dish or as a main course with your favorite meats and vegetables for a satisfying meal.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago, when I was a young girl living in a small village in Germany. My mother and grandmother were both incredible cooks, and I had always been fascinated by the delicious meals they would prepare. One day, my grandmother invited me into the kitchen to help her make a special dish called Spätzle.
I watched in awe as she mixed together flour, eggs, and water to form a thick dough. She then placed the dough onto a wooden board and used a knife to cut thin strips of dough into a pot of boiling water. As the Spätzle cooked, they floated to the surface, ready to be drained and served with a rich, creamy sauce.
I was amazed by how simple yet delicious the dish was, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. My grandmother patiently taught me the recipe, explaining each step and sharing her tips for making the perfect Spätzle. From that moment on, it became one of my favorite dishes to cook and share with my own family.
Over the years, I have made Spätzle countless times, experimenting with different variations and flavors. I have added cheese, herbs, and even vegetables to the dough, creating unique and delicious dishes that never fail to impress. Each time I make Spätzle, I am reminded of that day in my grandmother's kitchen, learning the recipe that would become a treasured family tradition.
One of my fondest memories is the time I made Spätzle for a family gathering. My relatives were amazed by the dish, and they couldn't get enough of the tender, flavorful noodles. They asked for the recipe, and I was more than happy to share it with them, knowing that it would bring them as much joy as it had brought me.
As the years passed, I continued to make Spätzle for special occasions and everyday meals. It became a staple in our household, a dish that everyone looked forward to and savored. I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, spreading the joy of this delicious German specialty to anyone who was willing to try it.
One day, I met a young woman who had recently moved to the village from a faraway land. She was curious about German cuisine and eager to learn new recipes. I invited her into my kitchen and showed her how to make Spätzle, just as my grandmother had shown me all those years ago.
The young woman was a quick learner, and soon she was making Spätzle with ease, impressing her new friends with her culinary skills. She thanked me for teaching her the recipe and told me that she would pass it on to her own family, continuing the tradition for generations to come.
As I watched the young woman leave my kitchen, a sense of pride washed over me. I realized that the recipe for Spätzle had not only brought joy and delicious meals to my own family but had also connected me to others in a meaningful way. It was a recipe that transcended borders and languages, bringing people together through the universal language of food.
To this day, I continue to make Spätzle for my family and friends, each batch reminding me of the day I learned the recipe from my beloved grandmother. It is a dish that holds a special place in my heart, a symbol of tradition, love, and the joy of sharing good food with those we care about. And as long as I am able, I will continue to make Spätzle, passing on the recipe to future generations and keeping the memory of that cherished day alive for years to come.