Spaetzle
Spaetzle are soft, tender German egg noodles with a delicate flavor, perfect as a side dish or in hearty stews, appealing to those who enjoy comforting, homemade pasta.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 6-quart Dutch oven over high heat, bring 4 quarts of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil.
- In a medium bowl, whisk or beat together the flour, 1/2 cup water, eggs, and 1/2 teaspoon salt until smooth.
- Reduce the heat to medium under the boiling water and use a rubber spatula to stir gently.
- Press the batter through a colander or spaetzle maker into the boiling water.
- Stir gently to prevent the spaetzle from sticking together.
- Boil for about 5 minutes or until the spaetzle are tender but firm; then drain.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider adding a pinch of baking powder to the flour. You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. If you don't have a spaetzle maker, a colander or large-holed grater works well to press the batter through. Always keep the water at a gentle boil to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve spaetzle topped with melted butter and fresh herbs for a simple yet delicious side. They pair beautifully with hearty meat dishes or can be enjoyed in vegetarian recipes with sautéed vegetables and cheese. Consider adding them to a creamy mushroom sauce for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spaetzle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply sauté in a little butter over medium heat until warmed through and slightly crispy. This method adds flavor and texture, making it a delicious side dish again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaetzle contains roughly 439 calories, with 12g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1749mg per serving (76% 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 refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before using. You can also cook the spaetzle and store them in the fridge, then reheat as needed.
What can I serve with spaetzle?
Spaetzle pairs well with a variety of dishes. Try serving them alongside roasted meats, stews, or creamy sauces. They can also be tossed with sautéed vegetables or served as a base for a rich cheese sauce.
Is there a gluten-free option for spaetzle?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or similar to help bind the ingredients. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious.
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).