Spatzle'S(German Noodles)
Soft, fluffy German noodles with a mild flavor, perfect as a side dish or in hearty meals, appealing to comfort food lovers and those craving traditional European cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, water, eggs, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Knead the ingredients together until the dough is smooth, not sticky or too hard.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Using a spätzle maker or a colander, press the dough into the boiling water.
- Cook until the noodles float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes.
- Drain and serve hot, optionally with melted butter or gravy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, you can add a touch of baking powder to your dough. If you don't have a spätzle maker, a colander or slotted spoon works just as well. To enhance the flavor, consider adding herbs like chives or parsley to the dough. If you're looking for a gluten-free version, try using a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.
Serving Suggestions
Spätzle can be served as a side dish with meats like roast chicken or beef stew, or topped with melted butter and fresh herbs for a simple vegetarian option. They also pair beautifully with The Best Lithuanian Potato Pancakes for a hearty meal. For a richer flavor, drizzle with gravy or serve alongside sautéed mushrooms.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spätzle in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply sauté them in a bit of butter over medium heat until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked dough rolled into small pieces and cook directly from frozen, adding a minute to the boiling time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spatzle'S(German Noodles) contains roughly 949 calories, with 25g protein, 198g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (59% of the Daily Value), protein (50% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1875mg per serving (82% 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 the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. Before cooking, let it come to room temperature for best results.
What is the best way to serve spätzle?
Spätzle is versatile and can be served in many ways. It tastes great simply tossed with butter and herbs, or you can mix it with cheese to create a comforting dish. For a unique twist, try pairing it with sautéed vegetables or serve it under a rich sauce.
Can I use whole grain flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, whole grain flour can be used, but it may result in a denser texture. If you prefer a lighter spätzle, consider mixing whole grain flour with all-purpose flour. This will provide a balance of flavor and texture while still retaining some health benefits.
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).