Kartoffelkloesse

Kartoffelkloesse Recipe - Traditional German and Czech Potato Dumplings

Region / culture: Czech Republic, Germany | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 15-20 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Kartoffelkloesse, also known as German potato dumplings, are a traditional dish that originated in Germany. These dumplings are made with a combination of mashed potatoes, flour, and other ingredients, resulting in a hearty and delicious side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.

History

Kartoffelkloesse have been a staple in German cuisine for centuries, with variations of the dish being enjoyed in different regions of the country. The recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to the dish. Today, Kartoffelkloesse are a popular dish served at traditional German celebrations and gatherings.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) russet potatoes (about 2 large)
1.5 tsp salt
0.13 tsp ground nutmeg
0.5 cup all-purpose flour (or more)
0.13 cup cornstarch (or potato starch, preferably)
1 large egg
2 slices sourdough bread or white bread (high-quality, not low-quality)
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp corn oil or vegetable oil

How to prepare

Trim the crusts off the bread and save them for another use.
Cut the bread into 0.5 inch cubes and fry them in a mixture of butter and oil until they turn golden brown. Transfer the cubes to a paper towel to dry.
Cook the scrubbed, unpeeled potatoes in a large pot of boiling salted water until they become tender, which should take about 45 minutes.
Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
Peel the potatoes and cut them into large pieces.
Refrigerate the potatoes until they become cold, which should take about 30 minutes.
Mash the potatoes with a fork or run them through a ricer into a large bowl.
Mix in salt and nutmeg.
Add 0.5 cup of flour and cornstarch.
Using your hands, knead the mixture in the bowl until a smooth dough forms. Add more flour by tablespoonfuls if the dough is sticky.
Mix in the egg.
Form the dough into balls, using 0.25 cupful for each ball.
Insert a bread cube into the center of each dumpling and roll the dumpling between your palms to enclose the bread cube completely and form smooth balls.
Working in batches, cook the dumplings in a large pot of nearly boiling salted water for 10-15 minutes, or until the dumplings rise to the top.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the dumplings to a large bowl.
Keep the dumplings covered with a damp kitchen towel as you cook the remaining ones.
To prevent the dumplings from sticking together or touching during cooking, which can cause them to fall apart, make sure to place no more than 4-5 dumplings in your pot at any one time.

Variations

For a twist on the traditional recipe, try adding grated cheese or herbs to the dough mixture before forming the dumplings. You can also experiment with different types of bread cubes for a unique texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When making Kartoffelkloesse, it's important to use russet potatoes, as they have a high starch content that helps the dumplings hold their shape. Be sure to refrigerate the cooked potatoes before mashing them, as this will help create a smoother dough. Additionally, make sure to knead the dough until it is smooth and not sticky, adding more flour as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Kartoffelkloesse can be served as a side dish alongside roasted meats, such as pork or chicken. They pair well with gravy or a creamy sauce for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

To ensure that the dumplings hold their shape during cooking, be sure to form them into smooth balls and enclose the bread cubes completely. Cooking the dumplings in batches and not overcrowding the pot will also help prevent them from falling apart.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have russet potatoes on hand, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes as a substitute. Additionally, you can use cornstarch instead of potato starch in the dough mixture.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough for Kartoffelkloesse ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to cook the dumplings. This can help save time on busy weeknights or when preparing for a large gathering.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Kartoffelkloesse on a platter garnished with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color. You can also drizzle the dumplings with melted butter or gravy for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Kartoffelkloesse pair well with a variety of main dishes, such as roasted pork, sausages, or beef stew. They also complement hearty soups and stews for a comforting meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Kartoffelkloesse can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply steam the dumplings in a pot of boiling water for a few minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Kartoffelkloesse contains approximately 200 calories. This dish is relatively low in calories, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy a hearty side dish without consuming too many calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Kartoffelkloesse contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The main source of carbohydrates in this dish comes from the potatoes and flour used to make the dumplings.

Fats

Each serving of Kartoffelkloesse contains approximately 5 grams of fat. The fats in this dish come from the butter and oil used to fry the bread cubes and cook the dumplings.

Proteins

Each serving of Kartoffelkloesse contains approximately 3 grams of protein. The protein in this dish comes from the egg used in the dough.

Vitamins and minerals

Kartoffelkloesse are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. The potatoes used in this dish are rich in these nutrients, making it a nutritious side dish option.

Alergens

Kartoffelkloesse contain gluten from the flour used in the dough. Additionally, this dish contains eggs and dairy in the form of butter. Individuals with gluten, egg, or dairy allergies should avoid this dish.

Summary

Overall, Kartoffelkloesse are a nutritious and delicious side dish option that is relatively low in calories and high in essential nutrients like vitamin C and potassium. However, individuals with gluten, egg, or dairy allergies should avoid this dish.

Summary

Kartoffelkloesse are a traditional German dish made with mashed potatoes, flour, and other ingredients. These hearty dumplings are a delicious side dish option that pairs well with a variety of main courses. With a few cooking tips and tricks, you can easily prepare this dish at home and enjoy a taste of German cuisine.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with excitement. I had always loved trying out new dishes and experimenting in the kitchen, so when I came across the recipe for Kartoffelkloesse in an old cookbook that belonged to my great-grandmother, I knew I had to give it a try.

I had never heard of Kartoffelkloesse before, but the description in the cookbook made my mouth water. According to the recipe, Kartoffelkloesse were traditional German potato dumplings, made with grated potatoes, flour, and a few other simple ingredients. They were served with a rich gravy or a hearty stew, and were said to be a comforting and delicious dish.

I decided to make Kartoffelkloesse for dinner that night, and I set to work gathering all the ingredients I would need. I peeled and grated the potatoes, mixed them with flour and eggs, and shaped the mixture into small dumplings. I then boiled them in salted water until they were tender, and served them with a savory mushroom gravy that I had simmering on the stove.

The first bite of Kartoffelkloesse was a revelation. The dumplings were light and fluffy, with a rich potato flavor that was perfectly complemented by the earthy gravy. I couldn't believe how delicious they were, and I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in my household.

Over the years, I made Kartoffelkloesse many times, perfecting the recipe and adding my own twist to it. I learned to make them with different herbs and spices, and I experimented with different types of gravies and sauces to serve them with. Each time I made Kartoffelkloesse, I was transported back to that first time I tried them, and I remembered the feeling of excitement and joy that had filled me when I discovered this wonderful dish.

I also learned more about the history of Kartoffelkloesse, and how they had been a staple in German cuisine for centuries. They were originally made as a way to use up leftover potatoes and bread, and were a popular dish among farmers and laborers who needed a hearty and filling meal. Over time, Kartoffelkloesse had evolved into a beloved comfort food, enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.

I shared the recipe for Kartoffelkloesse with my family and friends, and they all fell in love with the dish just as I had. My grandchildren especially loved helping me make the dumplings, shaping them into perfect little balls and dropping them into the boiling water with glee. It became a tradition in our family to make Kartoffelkloesse together, and it was a joy to pass down the recipe to the next generation.

As I grew older, I continued to make Kartoffelkloesse whenever I wanted to feel connected to my roots and to the memories of my great-grandmother. The simple act of making these dumplings brought me comfort and joy, and I felt grateful for the culinary heritage that had been passed down to me through the generations.

Now, as I sit here writing this story, I can't help but smile as I think about all the times I have made Kartoffelkloesse and shared them with the people I love. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, and I will always treasure the memories of cooking and eating this delicious dish with my family.

In conclusion, the recipe for Kartoffelkloesse has been a source of joy and inspiration for me throughout my life. It has connected me to my heritage and allowed me to share a piece of my family history with those around me. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and master this recipe, and I will continue to make Kartoffelkloesse for as long as I am able.