Introduction :
In the heart of German cuisine lies a comforting and versatile dish known as Spätzli. These soft and tender egg noodles are a staple side dish in many German households and are enjoyed with a variety of main courses. Whether served with a creamy sauce, alongside roasted meats, or as part of a hearty stew, Spätzli adds a delicious touch to any meal. Learn how to make this traditional German favorite with our easy-to-follow recipe.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt to taste
- Nutmeg to taste
Directions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, eggs, milk, salt, and nutmeg.
- Mix until a smooth, thick batter forms.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Hold a spätzli maker or colander with large holes over the pot of boiling water.
- Pour some of the batter into the spätzli maker or colander and press it through the holes into the boiling water.
- Cook the spätzli for about 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
- Remove the cooked spätzli with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a serving dish.
- Repeat the process with the remaining batter.
- Serve the spätzli hot as a side dish or with your favorite sauce.
Expert Tips for Serving and Storage:
- Serve spätzli as a side dish with roasted meats, stews, or creamy sauces.
- Leftover spätzli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them by sautéing in a pan with butter until heated through.
Nutritional and Health Benefits:
- Spätzli is a good source of carbohydrates and protein.
- It provides essential nutrients like iron, calcium, and vitamin D.
- The eggs in the recipe add healthy fats and proteins.
Variations to Explore:
- Add chopped herbs like parsley or chives to the spätzli batter for extra flavor.
- Substitute whole wheat flour for some or all of the all-purpose flour for added fiber.
- Experiment with different seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or black pepper.
Conclusion:
Homemade spätzli is a versatile and comforting dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a delightful addition to any meal.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I freeze homemade Spätzli? Yes, you can freeze homemade Spätzli. After cooking and draining the Spätzli, spread them out on a baking sheet to cool completely. Once cooled, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply boil them in salted water for a few minutes until heated through.
- Can I make gluten-free Spätzli? Yes, you can make gluten-free Spätzli using alternative flours such as rice flour, corn flour, or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that the consistency of the batter is similar to traditional Spätzli batter, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- How do I know when Spätzli are cooked? Spätzli are cooked when they rise to the surface of the boiling water. Allow them to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes after they rise to ensure they are fully cooked. They should be tender but still firm to the bite.
- Can I make Spätzli without a Spätzli maker? While a Spätzli maker or Spätzli press can make the process easier, you can still make Spätzli without one. Simply use a colander or a slotted spoon to press the batter through the holes directly into the boiling water.
- What dishes can I serve with Spätzli? Spätzli pairs well with a variety of dishes, including stews, roasts, and saucy dishes like goulash or creamy mushroom sauce. It also works well as a side dish with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
Resources :
- BBC Good Food – Spätzli Recipe
- Allrecipes – Homemade Spätzli
- The Spruce Eats – German Spätzli
- Serious Eats – How to Make Spätzli
- Food & Wine – Spätzli with Gruyère and Caramelized Onions
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PrintSpätzli Recipe
Spätzli, a traditional German egg noodle dish, is a comforting and versatile addition to any meal. Made from a simple batter of eggs, flour, and water, Spätzli are often served as a side dish or incorporated into hearty main courses. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating delicious homemade Spätzli that are tender and flavorful. Whether paired with a rich gravy, creamy sauce, or enjoyed on their own, these homemade Spätzli are sure to become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: german
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt to taste
- Nutmeg to taste
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, eggs, milk, salt, and nutmeg.
- Mix until a smooth, thick batter forms.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Hold a spätzli maker or colander with large holes over the pot of boiling water.
- Pour some of the batter into the spätzli maker or colander and press it through the holes into the boiling water.
- Cook the spätzli for about 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
- Remove the cooked spätzli with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a serving dish.
- Repeat the process with the remaining batter.
- Serve the spätzli hot as a side dish or with your favorite sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200 per serving
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Spätzli Recipe