Drop Noodles(Spaetzle)
Drop Noodles, also known as Spaetzle, are soft, tender egg noodles with a mild flavor, perfect for serving with gravy, butter, or sauces, ideal for comforting meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together flour and salt.
- Beat together egg and water.
- Add the flour mixture to the egg and water mixture; stir until very thick and smooth.
- Bring 2 quarts of water to a boil and add 2 teaspoons of salt.
- Spoon the batter into the boiling water by 1/2 teaspoon, dipping the spoon into water each time to prevent sticking.
- Cook only one layer of noodles at a time; once they rise to the surface, boil gently for 5 to 8 minutes.
- Remove noodles from water and place in a warm bowl.
- Toss with melted butter or serve with gravy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, you can add a splash of milk to the batter. If you're out of all-purpose flour, try using a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour. Ensure your water is at a rolling boil before adding the batter to achieve the best rise. Dipping your spoon in water can help prevent the noodles from sticking together while cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaetzle tossed in melted butter for a simple side dish, or pair with a rich gravy for a heartier meal. They also complement roasted meats or sautéed vegetables beautifully. For a unique twist, incorporate them into a salad or serve alongside Vegetarian recipes for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spaetzle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add the noodles to a pot of boiling water for a couple of minutes or sauté them in a skillet with a little butter until heated through. This will help restore their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Drop Noodles(Spaetzle) contains roughly 1160 calories, with 11g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (25% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2138mg per serving (93% 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 spaetzle ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken. You can also freeze cooked spaetzle for later use; just thaw and reheat as needed.
What if my batter is too thick?
If your batter is too thick, gradually add a little more water until it reaches the desired consistency. It should be thick but still pourable. Remember, different flours can absorb moisture differently, so adjust accordingly.
Can I add flavors to the spaetzle batter?
Absolutely! You can add herbs like parsley or chives, or even spices like nutmeg or garlic powder to enhance the flavor of your spaetzle. This adds a nice twist and complements various dishes beautifully.
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).