Canederli Dumplings
Canederli Dumplings are hearty Italian-inspired bread dumplings filled with bacon, salami, and cheese, perfect for comforting meals served in broth or with sauerkraut. Ideal for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cube the day-old Vienna bread.
- Fry the bacon and chop into small pieces.
- Add milk to the bread and let stand for 15 minutes.
- Add the chopped bacon, salami, grated cheese, eggs, and flour to the bread mixture.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Spoon the mixture to form balls and drop into boiling water.
- Test one dumpling first to see if it holds together; if not, add a little more flour.
- Boil the dumplings in water for 1 minute, then remove.
- Heat the chicken broth and add half a can of water, bringing it to a boil.
- Place the dumplings in the boiling broth.
- Cover and steam for 20 minutes.
- Optionally, add a garlic clove to the broth for extra flavor. Serve with broth, gravy, or sauerkraut.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute half of the Vienna bread with whole wheat bread. If you don't have Genoa salami, any other mild salami will work. Ensure the mixture is moist but not too wet; adding extra flour helps with binding. For added flavor, consider infusing the broth with herbs like thyme or bay leaves, enhancing the overall dish just as in traditional Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve canederli dumplings in the flavorful broth they were steamed in for maximum taste. They pair wonderfully with sauerkraut or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside Italian Fried Chicken Strips or a side of roasted vegetables. Drizzle with a bit of gravy for extra richness.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover canederli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently simmer them in chicken broth to prevent drying out. Alternatively, they can be pan-fried in a little butter for a crispy texture. Avoid freezing as the dumplings may lose their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Canederli Dumplings contains roughly 2027 calories, with 37g protein, 338g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (128% of the Daily Value), calcium (117% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (85% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2107mg per serving (92% 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 make canederli ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dumpling mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Form the dumplings just before cooking to maintain their texture. This allows for convenient meal prep, and they're perfect for serving on busy weeknights.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can replace the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tofu for a similar umami flavor. Alternatively, use turkey bacon or pancetta for a leaner alternative that still delivers a meaty taste.
How do I know when the dumplings are done?
The dumplings are done when they float to the surface of the broth and have a slightly firm texture. You can also cut one open to check for doneness; it should be cooked through without any raw dough.
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).