Spaetzle Dumplings
Soft, tender spaetzle dumplings with a slight chew, perfect as a side dish with meats or in comforting family meals, showcasing simple German-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix all ingredients together to form a firm dough.
- Beat the dough until it easily comes away from the sides of the bowl.
- Press the dough through a dumpling sifter into salted boiling water using a spoon.
- Cook the dumplings for 10 to 15 minutes until they float to the surface.
- Skim the dumplings out and dip them in cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Optionally, lightly brown the dumplings in butter before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend. Adding a pinch of nutmeg enhances the flavor. If you don’t have a dumpling sifter, a colander or a slotted spoon can work in a pinch. Make sure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the dough to ensure proper cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve spaetzle as a side dish with rich meats like roasted chicken or beef stew. They pair beautifully with Baked Sauerkraut And Spareribs With Dumplings, or you can toss them in a creamy sauce with sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Fresh herbs sprinkled on top add a nice finishing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover spaetzle can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply sauté in a skillet with a little butter until heated through, or add them to a soup or stew for a delightful addition. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as they can become mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaetzle Dumplings contains roughly 918 calories, with 24g protein, 191g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (58% of the Daily Value), protein (49% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1854mg per serving (81% 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 dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spaetzle dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to cover it tightly. When ready to cook, give it a good stir to ensure everything is well combined before pressing it through the sifter.
What can I serve with spaetzle?
Spaetzle is extremely versatile! It pairs well with hearty dishes like German Dumplings served alongside rich gravies. You can also serve them with sautéed vegetables or in a cheese sauce for a comforting meal. A side of greens or a nice salad balances the dish beautifully.
Can I freeze spaetzle?
Absolutely! Cooked spaetzle can be frozen for up to 3 months. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze them individually. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, boil directly from frozen or sauté in a pan with a bit of butter until warmed through.
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).