Spaetzle or Little Dumplings

Spaetzle or Little Dumplings Recipe from Hungary

Region / culture: Hungary | Servings: 4

Introduction

Spaetzle, also known as little dumplings, is a traditional German dish that is simple yet delicious. These small, soft dumplings are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of meats and sauces. In this article, we will explore the history of the recipe, cooking tips and tricks, as well as nutrition information and serving suggestions for spaetzle.

History

Spaetzle has been a staple in German cuisine for centuries. The word "spaetzle" comes from the Swabian dialect of German, meaning "little sparrow." The dish is believed to have originated in the Swabia region of Germany, where it was traditionally made by hand and served as a hearty comfort food. Today, spaetzle is enjoyed throughout Germany and has become popular in other countries as well.

Ingredients

2.5 cups of all-purpose flour
1 tsp of salt
2 tbsp of cream of wheat or farina
2 eggs
0.75 cup of water
1 tbsp of melted butter

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and cream of wheat.
Create a well in the center and add the eggs, water, and butter.
Stir the mixture until the batter becomes smooth and thick.
Using a teaspoon, drop spoonfuls of batter into a large pot of boiling salted water.
Dip the spoon into the hot water each time to prevent the batter from sticking.
To avoid overcrowding, cook only half of the batter at a time.
Stir the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to ensure the dumplings rise to the top.
Once the dumplings rise, let them cook for 2 minutes.
Remove the dumplings from the water and drain any excess liquid.
Serve the dumplings warm.

Variations

Add grated cheese to the batter for a cheesy spaetzle.
Mix in herbs or spices such as parsley, nutmeg, or garlic for added flavor.
Substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier alternative.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use a spaetzle maker or a colander with large holes to easily form the dumplings.

- Be sure to stir the bottom of the pot while cooking to prevent the dumplings from sticking.

- For a crispy texture, sauté the cooked spaetzle in butter or oil after boiling.

- Experiment with different seasonings such as herbs or spices to add flavor to the dumplings.

Serving Suggestions

Spaetzle can be served as a side dish with sautéed vegetables, roasted meats, or creamy sauces. It also pairs well with hearty stews or soups.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling is the traditional method for cooking spaetzle, but they can also be pan-fried for a crispy texture. Sautéing in butter or oil is another popular cooking technique.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have farina on hand, you can substitute with semolina or cornmeal. You can also use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of spaetzle.

Make Ahead Tips

Spaetzle can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat in a skillet with a little butter or oil before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve spaetzle in a decorative bowl garnished with fresh herbs or grated cheese for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Spaetzle pairs well with a variety of dishes, including beef stroganoff, chicken paprikash, or pork schnitzel. It also complements creamy sauces, mushroom gravies, or braised meats.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover spaetzle can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply sauté in a skillet with a little butter or oil until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of spaetzle contains approximately 200 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie side dish option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of spaetzle contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are essential for fueling daily activities.

Fats

A serving of spaetzle contains around 3 grams of fat. While fats are high in calories, they are also important for absorbing vitamins and providing energy.

Proteins

Spaetzle provides about 7 grams of protein per serving. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Spaetzle is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals. However, it does contain small amounts of iron and calcium.

Alergens

Spaetzle contains gluten from the all-purpose flour, making it unsuitable for those with gluten allergies or sensitivities.

Summary

Overall, spaetzle is a moderate source of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is a relatively low-calorie dish that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Spaetzle is a classic German dish that is easy to make and versatile in its serving options. Whether boiled or pan-fried, these little dumplings are sure to be a hit at your next meal. Enjoy them as a side dish or as a main course with your favorite toppings and sauces.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a rainy afternoon and I was flipping through an old cookbook that had been tucked away in the attic for years. As I turned the yellowed pages, a faded photo caught my eye - a steaming bowl of spaetzle, or little dumplings, nestled next to a savory stew.

I had never heard of spaetzle before, but the recipe seemed simple enough. Flour, eggs, salt, and water were all that was needed to create these delicious little morsels. I couldn't wait to give it a try.

I decided to surprise my family with the new dish for dinner that night. As I mixed the dough, I couldn't help but think of all the other recipes I had collected over the years. Some were passed down from my own mother, while others were shared by friends and neighbors. Each recipe held a special memory, a moment in time that I could revisit with just a taste.

As the spaetzle simmered in the boiling water, I could already smell the comforting aroma of homemade bread filling the kitchen. I eagerly scooped out the dumplings and tossed them in a pan with butter and herbs. The end result was nothing short of perfection - tender, pillowy dumplings that melted in your mouth with each bite.

When my family sat down to dinner that night, they couldn't believe that I had made such a delicious dish from scratch. My husband even went back for seconds, a sure sign of success in my book. From that moment on, spaetzle became a staple at our dinner table.

Over the years, I have continued to experiment with different variations of the recipe. Sometimes I add cheese or herbs to the dough, other times I serve the dumplings with a rich mushroom sauce or a hearty goulash. Each new twist brings a fresh perspective to an old favorite.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family alike, passing on the tradition of homemade spaetzle to the next generation. I love seeing the joy on their faces as they take their first bite, the same joy that I felt all those years ago when I first discovered the recipe in that old cookbook.

As I sit here now, reflecting on all the recipes I have collected and the memories they hold, I am grateful for the gift of cooking. It has brought me closer to my loved ones, allowed me to share a piece of myself with others, and created a legacy that will live on long after I am gone.

So the next time you find yourself flipping through an old cookbook or trying a new recipe, remember that each dish tells a story. Embrace the opportunity to create something special, to connect with your past and present through the simple act of cooking. And who knows, you may just discover your own version of spaetzle - a recipe that will bring comfort and joy to those you love for years to come.