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To make spaetzle, you need a few key items. Here’s what you’ll need: - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 3 large eggs - 1/2 cup milk These ingredients create a simple yet flavorful dumpling. The flour acts as the base, while the eggs and milk make the batter rich and moist. The salt enhances flavor, and nutmeg adds a warm spice. To take your spaetzle to the next level, you can add some extras. Consider these options: - Grated cheese varieties, such as Emmental or Gruyere - Fresh herbs and spices, like parsley or chives Adding cheese gives a creamy taste, while herbs brighten the dish. You can sprinkle cheese on top for serving, too. For the full recipe, check out my detailed guide on making these delightful dumplings. To make spaetzle, start with the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. This blend gives spaetzle its unique taste. Next, combine the wet ingredients. In another bowl, beat 3 large eggs and add 1/2 cup of milk. Mix these until they are well combined. Slowly pour the egg mixture into the dry mix. Stir until you have a thick and sticky batter. If it feels too thick, add a bit more milk. Now it’s time to cook your dumplings. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. This step is key as it helps the spaetzle cook properly. Using a spaetzle maker or a colander, press the batter through into the boiling water. If you’re using a colander, a spatula works well to push the batter through. The spaetzle will float when they are done cooking, which takes about 2-3 minutes. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them in a bowl. To add flavor, sauté the dumplings. In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the cooked spaetzle and sauté for a few minutes until they get lightly browned and crispy. For serving, garnish with fresh chopped parsley. If you want to elevate your dish, sprinkle with grated cheese like Emmental or Gruyere. Enjoy your homemade spaetzle! For a detailed guide, check out the Full Recipe. To get the right texture for spaetzle, focus on the batter. It should be thick but still flow easily. If it’s too runny, add a bit more flour. If it’s too thick, add a little milk. You want a smooth, sticky mix that holds together well. Next, boost the flavor of your spaetzle. Adding a pinch of ground nutmeg gives a warm taste. You can also mix in fresh herbs like parsley or chives for extra zest. These small changes make your dumplings pop! When boiling your spaetzle, the water temperature matters. Make sure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the dumplings. This helps them cook evenly and float to the top. If the water is not hot enough, the spaetzle can turn gummy. To avoid gummy dumplings, do not overcrowd the pot. Cook them in batches if needed. Once they float, they are ready to be taken out. Use a slotted spoon for easy removal. This keeps them light and fluffy, just like they should be! For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps above. {{image_2}} You can add cheese to your spaetzle for a creamy twist. Grated cheese, like Emmental or Gruyere, works best. Mix the cheese directly into the batter before boiling. This adds a rich flavor. You can also sprinkle more cheese on top after cooking. To serve cheese spaetzle, place it in a bowl and top with crispy onions. This adds a nice crunch. You can also garnish with fresh parsley for color. Cheese spaetzle makes a filling dish on its own or a great side. Fresh herbs can brighten your spaetzle. I love adding chopped parsley or chives to the batter. This gives a burst of flavor and color. You can also experiment with dill or basil for a unique taste. If you want more flavor, try using garlic powder or onion powder. These spices enhance the dish without overpowering it. You can mix and match herbs and spices to find your favorite combo. Herb-infused spaetzle is a great way to customize this classic dish. To keep your spaetzle fresh, store it properly. Place any leftover spaetzle in an airtight container. Make sure to refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. It can last in the fridge for about three days. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it. Spread the spaetzle on a baking sheet and freeze it for one hour. After that, transfer it to a freezer bag. This method keeps the dumplings from sticking together. Frozen spaetzle can last up to two months. When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating spaetzle is easy. The best method is to sauté it in a pan. Heat a little butter or oil over medium heat. Add the spaetzle and stir until warmed through. This method helps keep the texture nice and firm. You can also boil it briefly in salted water if you prefer. Just be careful not to overcook it. For serving, try pairing the reheated spaetzle with a tasty sauce. A creamy cheese sauce or rich gravy works well. You can also add fresh herbs for extra flavor and color. Enjoy your spaetzle like it’s fresh off the stove! For the complete recipe, refer to the Full Recipe. Yes, you can! If you do not have a spaetzle maker, don't worry. You can use a few simple tools. A colander works great. Just press the batter through the holes using a spatula. You can also use a large slotted spoon or a cutting board. Spread the batter on the board and cut small pieces into boiling water. Both methods work well! Homemade spaetzle pairs well with many dishes. You can serve it with creamy sauces, like mushroom or cheese sauce. It also goes nicely with hearty stews or roasted meats. Try it with sautéed veggies for a lighter dish. A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a nice touch too. You can even enjoy it on its own with melted butter! You can tell spaetzle is cooked when it floats. After about 2-3 minutes in boiling water, look for the dumplings to rise. They should be soft and slightly chewy. If you taste one, it should not be doughy. This means they are ready to be taken out! In this blog, we explored spaetzle from start to finish. We covered essential and optional ingredients for flavor, and I guided you through the simple steps to make perfect spaetzle. We shared tips for texture and cooking techniques to avoid mishaps. Lastly, we discussed delicious variations and storage tips. My final thought: spaetzle is easy to make and customize. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and serving ideas! You will impress yourself and others with this tasty dish.

Homemade German Spaetzle Dumplings

Discover the delightful world of Savory German Spaetzle Dumplings! This easy recipe combines simple ingredients to create tender, flavorful dumplings perfect for any meal. With just a few steps, you’ll learn how to whip up these delicious bites in no time. Whether you serve them with cheese or as a side dish, they are sure to impress. Click through to explore the full recipe and bring a taste of Germany to your kitchen!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

3 large eggs

1/2 cup milk

2 tablespoons butter

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: Grated cheese (e.g., Emmental or Gruyere) for serving

Instructions
 

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and ground nutmeg.

    In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add the milk. Mix until well combined.

      Gradually pour the egg mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until a thick, sticky batter forms. If needed, adjust the consistency with a bit more flour or milk.

        Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat.

          Using a spaetzle maker or a colander with wide holes, press the batter through into the boiling water. If using a colander, you can use a spatula to push the batter through.

            Once the dumplings float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes), they are cooked. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them in a bowl.

              In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add cooked spaetzle to the skillet and sauté for a few minutes until lightly browned and crispy.

                Serve the spaetzle warm, garnished with chopped parsley. For an extra indulgence, sprinkle with grated cheese before serving.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings