Spaetzle(German Noodles)
Spaetzle are soft German noodles with a tender texture and mild flavor, perfect as a comforting side dish or main course for hearty, family-friendly meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine sifted all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper to make the dough.
- Blend condensed chicken broth, eggs, and milk; add to the flour mixture and beat until bubbles form, about 2 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a light and airy spaetzle, ensure you don't overmix the batter once the wet ingredients are added. If you can't find condensed chicken broth, homemade chicken stock works well. You can also substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavor too.
Serving Suggestions
Serve spaetzle as a side dish with rich meats, like roast chicken or beef stew. It pairs beautifully with Chicken With Forty Cloves Of Garlic for a delightful meal. Top with toasted bread crumbs for added texture, and consider serving alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spaetzle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, sauté in a pan with a little butter or margarine until warm and slightly crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaetzle(German Noodles) contains roughly 357 calories, with 15g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (223% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1196mg per serving (52% 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 spaetzle dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to stir it well before cooking. Cooked spaetzle can also be frozen; just ensure it's in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works as a great substitute for chicken broth in this recipe. You can also use water, but you may want to enhance the flavor with herbs or a splash of soy sauce.
How do I know when the spaetzle is done cooking?
Spaetzle is typically done when it floats to the surface of the boiling water. This usually takes about 2-4 minutes. Once they float, give them an additional minute before removing them with a slotted spoon to ensure they are fully cooked.
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).