Spaetzle
Spaetzle is a traditional German dish made from a simple batter of egg, water, and flour, resulting in soft, chewy dumplings. This versatile recipe is easy to make and ideal for pairing with sauces or served as a main dish.
Cook time 5 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
1 tsp salt1 egg
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp fresh parsley
Spaetzle is a traditional German pasta-like dish. Soft, slightly chewy, and perfect for soaking up sauces, this easy-to-make recipe requires just a few simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Follow this guide to create a delicious batch of spaetzle that can serve as a versatile side or even a main dish.
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, water, olive oil, and salt until well combined.
2. Gradually mix in the flour to form a smooth batter. The consistency should be slightly thicker than pancake batter.
1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water.
1. Reduce the heat to medium to maintain a gentle boil.
2. If using a spaetzle maker, place it over the pot of boiling water. Pour a portion of the batter into the spaetzle maker and press the batter through the holes into the boiling water. Alternatively, you can use a colander with large holes. Pour the batter into the colander and use a rubber spatula to press the batter through the holes directly into the boiling water.
3. Stir the spaetzle gently to prevent them from sticking together.
4. Cook the spaetzle for 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked spaetzle to a large serving bowl.
1. Once all the spaetzle is cooked, drizzle a little olive oil over them to prevent sticking.
2. Season with black pepper and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
3. Gently toss to combine and serve immediately.
Congratulations, you've made spaetzle! This comforting and versatile dish is perfect as a base for many meals. Enjoy it topped with a savory sauce, or simply garnished with herbs and cheese. Spaetzle pairs excellently with hearty meats and stews, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.
Spaetzle FAQ:
Spaetzle is done when it floats to the surface of the boiling water, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to check and remove any that have floated up.
Yes, you can make spaetzle ahead of time. After cooking, let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in boiling water or a skillet with a bit of olive oil.
All-purpose flour is commonly used for spaetzle, but you could also use a mix of all-purpose and semolina flour for added texture. Avoid using cake flour as it may make the spaetzle too soft.
You can substitute olive oil with other oils like vegetable oil or melted butter if desired. Each will impart a slightly different flavor.
If the batter is too thick, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, gradually mix in more flour until it's slightly thicker than pancake batter.
Tips:
- 1. Rest the Batter: Let the batter rest for at least 10 minutes before cooking to ensure the spaetzle texture is just right.
- 2. Consistency: The batter should be thick but still pourable. If too thick, you can add a bit more water.
- 3. Shaping Spaetzle: Use a spaetzle maker or a colander with large holes to form the spaetzle. Press the batter through directly into boiling water.
- 4. Cook in Batches: To prevent sticking, cook the spaetzle in batches in boiling, salted water until they float to the top, which should take just a few minutes.
- 5. Quick Cooling: Once cooked, transfer the spaetzle into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain well before using.
- 6. Sauté for Extra Flavor: After boiling, you can sauté the spaetzle in a little butter or olive oil until they are lightly browned for extra flavor.
- 7. Garnish: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, but you can also experiment with other herbs or toppings like grated cheese.
Nutrition per serving
8 ServingsCalories 10kcal
Protein 0.84g
Carbohydrates 0.30g
Fiber 0.10g
Sugar 0.02g
Fat 8g
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