Bread Dumplings(Semmelknodel)
Bread dumplings, or Semmelknodel, are soft, hearty German-style bread balls infused with parsley and nutmeg. Perfect as a side dish with goulash or roast beef, they offer a tender texture and comforting flavor that appeals to lovers of traditional European cuisine and hearty, filling meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Finely slice the bread rolls and soak them in hot milk for 15 minutes.
- Fry the chopped onion and parsley in butter until softened.
- Add the fried onion and parsley to the soaked bread mixture.
- Mix in the eggs, plain flour, salt, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Bring water with 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil in a large pot.
- Form a test dumpling from the mixture and cook it in the simmering water for 10 to 15 minutes.
- If the dumpling breaks apart, add bread crumbs to the mixture to make it drier.
- If the mixture is too firm, add a little more hot milk.
- Form the remaining mixture into dumplings and cook them in the boiling water until they float and are cooked through.
- Serve the bread dumplings hot, with goulash or roast beef.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the best texture, ensure the stale bread is finely sliced for even soaking. If you don't have stale bread rolls, you can use fresh bread, but reduce the hot milk slightly. Consider adding a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor, or substitute parsley with chives or thyme for a different taste. Remember to adjust the seasonings according to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bread dumplings hot, paired with goulash or roast beef for a hearty meal. They also work well alongside a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced plate. For a twist, try them with mushroom gravy or your favorite sauce. These dumplings can complement dishes like Simple Supper Beef And Broccoli beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bread dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, steam them for a few minutes or microwave with a splash of water to maintain moisture. They can also be sliced and pan-fried for a crispy texture, making them a delicious addition to breakfast or brunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bread Dumplings(Semmelknodel) contains roughly 1011 calories, with 12g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (78% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1051mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze bread dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze bread dumplings. After cooking, let them cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.
What should I do if my dumplings fall apart while cooking?
If the dumplings break apart, it usually means the mixture is too wet. Try adding more flour or bread crumbs to the mixture to help bind it. You can also ensure that your test dumpling cooks properly before forming the rest.
Can I add other ingredients to the dumpling mixture?
Absolutely! You can customize the dumpling mixture by adding ingredients like cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or cheese for additional flavor. Just remember that adding moist ingredients may require adjustments to the bread or flour quantities.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).