Old-Fashioned German Dumplings

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 16 Cuisine: German

Old-Fashioned German Dumplings are soft, savory balls perfect for adding heartiness to vegetable soups, with a delicate flavor and tender texture that complements various dishes.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup water
  • 6 tablespoons oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 2 eggs

Instructions

  1. Bring water, oil, and salt to a boil in a pan.
  2. Add flour all at once and stir until the mixture leaves the sides of the pan.
  3. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  4. Add one egg and stir until absorbed.
  5. Add the second egg and stir until combined.
  6. Drop small spoonfuls of the batter into boiling vegetable soup.
  7. Cover tightly and cook for about 15 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother texture, ensure the flour is sifted before adding it to the boiled mixture. You can substitute the oil with melted butter for a richer flavor. If you want to experiment, add herbs or spices to the dough for extra flavor. These dumplings can be made ahead of time and frozen before cooking, making them a convenient addition to any meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these dumplings as a hearty addition to vegetable soup or alongside a show-off vegetable plate. They pair wonderfully with a rich gravy or saucy dishes, enhancing their flavor and texture. For a complete meal, consider serving them with a side of sautéed greens or a fresh salad.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, steam them for a few minutes or add them directly to boiling soup to warm them through without losing texture. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them tough.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Old-Fashioned German Dumplings contains roughly 117 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 8g fat.

117 kcal 6% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.2g 2% DV
Total Fat 7.9g 10% DV
Carbs 10.4g 4% DV
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 452mg 20% DV
Potassium 38.5mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 14.5mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 3.5mcg
Vitamin C 0mg
Calcium 14.2mg 1% DV
Iron 0.5mg 3% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 the dumpling batter in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just remember to stir it well before using, as the ingredients may settle. However, for the best texture, it's ideal to cook them fresh.

What type of soup works best with these dumplings?

These dumplings are versatile and can be added to various soups. A hearty vegetable soup is a classic pairing, but they also work well in chicken or beef broth. The dumplings soak up the flavors, making each bite delightful.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may result in denser dumplings. To maintain a lighter texture, consider mixing half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour. Adjust the water slightly if needed to achieve the right consistency.

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).

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