These Authentic German Spaetzle Dumplings are soft, tasty little noodles that go great with almost any meal. They’re easy to make with just a few ingredients: flour, eggs, and a bit of salt!
Honestly, I love how these dumplings soak up the flavor of sauces! I often serve them with gravy or butter and herbs. If you’re in a noodle mood, give these a try – you won’t regret it! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour works best for spaetzle. If you’re gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s designed for baking, so the dumplings hold together nicely.
Eggs: Fresh large eggs are essential for that rich flavor and chewy texture. If you need a vegan option, try using a combination of flax meal and water (1 tablespoon flax meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg).
Milk or Water: I usually prefer milk for added flavor, but water will work just fine too if you’re looking to keep it light. Non-dairy milk like almond or soy is a good substitute for lactose intolerance.
Butter: While I love using butter for its flavor, you can switch to olive oil or a dairy-free alternative to keep it vegan.
How Can I Master Making Spaetzle?
Making spaetzle may seem tricky, but it’s quite simple once you get the hang of it! The key is in the batter’s consistency and cooking technique. Remember, the dough should be sticky yet smooth. If it’s too thick, just add a bit more liquid.
- Use a spaetzle maker or a colander to create perfect shapes when pushing the batter into the boiling water. Don’t worry about perfect shapes; they’re meant to be irregular!
- Keep the water boiling well while adding the dumplings to ensure they cook properly. This part is crucial for achieving that tender texture.
- Drain them promptly once they float, then sauté them in butter for that nice golden finish. It adds great flavor! Don’t forget to season with fresh pepper and parsley just before serving.
Authentic German Spaetzle Dumplings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk or water
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan or Swiss cheese, for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy addition to any meal. In just about 20-25 minutes, you’ll have delicious, homemade spaetzle ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, mix together the flour and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk (or water) until well combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture, stirring continuously. Keep mixing until you have a thick batter that’s somewhat sticky and elastic—this will be the base for your dumplings!
2. Boil the Water:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. This step is essential for cooking the spaetzle properly, so make sure the water is bubbling well.
3. Create the Dumplings:
Using a spaetzle maker, a colander, or a large-holed grater, press the batter through into the boiling water in small batches. This will create those charming little irregular dumplings that we’re aiming for. It’s okay if they don’t all look the same—each one will have its own personality!
4. Cook the Spaetzle:
The dumplings will cook quickly—watch for them to float to the surface, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Once they rise, let them cook for another 1-2 minutes to ensure they’re fully cooked. Then, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a colander to drain off any excess water.
5. Sauté and Serve:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the drained spaetzle to the skillet and sauté them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring gently until they are slightly golden and edged. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. To finish, serve them topped with grated cheese and fresh parsley for a delightful garnish!
Enjoy your authentic German Spaetzle Dumplings warm as a delicious side or main dish! They’re perfect for soaking up sauces and adding a comforting touch to your meals.
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture will be a bit denser with a nuttier flavor. You may want to add a little extra liquid to the batter to reach a similar consistency to the original recipe.
How Do I Store Leftover Spaetzle?
Leftover spaetzle can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, sauté them in a little butter or oil on medium heat until warmed through, or microwave them with a splash of water to steam them lightly.
Can I Freeze Spaetzle?
Absolutely! After boiling and draining, let the spaetzle cool completely. Spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen by adding them directly to boiling water or sautéing them in butter until heated through.
What Dishes Pair Well with Spaetzle?
Spaetzle complements a variety of dishes! It pairs wonderfully with rich gravies, stews, or roasted meats. You can also serve it alongside sautéed vegetables or mix it into a casserole for a hearty meal.
