In the realm of delectable German cuisine, Spätzle stands out as a culinary gem, a versatile and beloved pasta dish that has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. Originating from the southern regions of Germany, Spätzle, meaning "little sparrow" in German, is traditionally crafted from a simple batter of flour, eggs, and salt, skillfully shaped into tiny, tender dumplings and cooked in boiling water. Its unique texture, akin to soft, delicate noodles, makes it a delightful accompaniment to a wide array of sauces, gravies, and toppings. Spätzle's versatility extends beyond its role as a savory side dish; it can also be transformed into a hearty main course when paired with cheese, vegetables, or meat. This comprehensive article not only guides you through the classic Spätzle recipe but also presents a collection of enticing variations, each adding a unique twist to this culinary delight. Discover the secrets of creating Käsespätzle, a delectable union of Spätzle and melted cheese, sure to tantalize your taste buds. Embark on a culinary journey as we explore these recipes, promising to elevate your Spätzle-making skills and introduce you to the diverse culinary landscape of this beloved German dish.
Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!
GERMAN CHEESE-NOODLE CASSEROLE (KäSESPäTZLE)
This traditional German cheese casserole comfort food (käsespätzle) recipe uses homemade noodles topped with cheese and caramelized onions.
Provided by Jennifer McGavin
Categories Pasta
Time 1h25m
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- Gather the ingredients.
- Start by making the caramelized onions about 1 hour before the casserole needs to go into the oven.
- Heat the butter and oil in a nonstick pan on medium. Turn heat to low and add onions. Stir every few minutes for about an hour, or until onions are lightly browned and sweet enough for your taste. Here is more information on caramelizing onions .
- Turn off the heat and set the onions aside.
- Gather the ingredients.
- Here is a step-by-step guide to making spätzle with a spätlebrett (wooden board used to make drop noodles). You may use a colander to form the noodles or a grater-like device with a hopper on it called a spätzle maker.
- Place a large pot of water on to boil. You can add salt if you wish.
- To make the dough, whisk together the flour and salt in a medium bowl. In a small bowl or measuring cup, beat the eggs with the water and add to the flour-salt mixture.
- Beat for several minutes or until dough is smooth. Let the dough rest for 10 minutes, then beat it again. Add water or flour to adjust consistency to a thick batter (a little thinner than brownie batter).
- Place half of the dough in the hopper of the spätzle maker which is placed over the simmering water. Push and pull the hopper back and forth, creating a dough wave inside the hopper. Little bits of dough will be pushed out the other side and drop into the water. They will be fatter and more teardrop-shaped than the spätzle you make with a board.
- The noodles drop to the bottom of the pot, then rise to the surface. Let them sit there for another 2 or 3 minutes, then scoop them out with a slotted spoon or small sieve. Rinse briefly in hot water, then drain well and set aside.
- Using the second half of the dough, make another batch of noodles. If the noodles stick to the bottom of the pan, give a quick stir to loosen. They should then rise to the top.
- Butter and line a 1 1/2- to 2-quart casserole dish with breadcrumbs .
- When noodles are done, add them to the (cooled) pan with the caramelized onions. Add the grated nutmeg and 3/4 of the grated cheese and stir to mix.
- Spoon noodles into the casserole, sprinkle with remaining cheese and bake, covered, at 350 F for 20 minutes, then uncovered for 15 minutes. If you like, brown the cheese topping with the broiler during the last 5 minutes.
- Serve hot.
- Enjoy.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 534 kcal, Carbohydrate 63 g, Cholesterol 142 mg, Fiber 3 g, Protein 21 g, SaturatedFat 11 g, Sodium 658 mg, Sugar 3 g, Fat 22 g, ServingSize 4 servings, UnsaturatedFat 0 g
GERMAN SPAETZLE WITH CHEESE
Make and share this German Spaetzle With Cheese recipe from Food.com.
Provided by Az B8990
Categories Cheese
Time 50m
Yield 4-6 , 4-6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- •Preheat oven to 325°F.
- •Heat butter (or oil) in skillet and sautee onions until tender, about 5 minutes.
- •Butter casserole dish. Begin by layering with 1/3 of the spaetzle, season with salt and pepper, sprinkle with 1/3 of the cheese. Repeat, until you have layered 3 times.
- •Top with the sauteed onions.
- •Bake, uncovered, about 20 - 30 minutes, or until bubbly and slightly browned on top.
KAESE SPAETZLE
A tasty homemade pasta tossed with onion and Emmentaler cheese. A German version of macaroni and cheese.
Provided by NDBR
Categories Main Dish Recipes Dumpling Recipes
Time 1h
Yield 8
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Sift together flour, nutmeg, salt and pepper. Beat eggs in a medium bowl. Alternately mix in milk and the flour mixture until smooth. Let stand for 30 minutes.
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Press batter through a spaetzle press into the water. You may also use a potato ricer, colander, or a cheese grater. When the spaetzle has floated to the top of the water, remove it to a bowl with a slotted spoon. Mix in 1 cup of the cheese.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, and cook until golden. Stir in spaetzle and remaining cheese until well blended. Remove from heat, and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 245.1 calories, Carbohydrate 20.1 g, Cholesterol 101.7 mg, Fat 13.1 g, Fiber 0.9 g, Protein 11.5 g, SaturatedFat 7.5 g, Sodium 376.6 mg, Sugar 1.4 g
Tips:
- For the best results, use a spaetzle maker or a colander with large holes to create the spaetzle dough.
- If you don't have a spaetzle maker or a colander, you can also use a potato ricer to create the spaetzle dough.
- Be sure to use a large pot of boiling salted water to cook the spaetzle.
- Cook the spaetzle in batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
- Once the spaetzle is cooked, drain it well and then toss it with melted butter and your favorite seasonings.
- Serve the spaetzle immediately with your favorite toppings, such as grated cheese, fried onions, or bacon bits.
Conclusion:
German spaetzle with cheese is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. It is easy to make and can be customized to your own taste preferences. With its tender texture and cheesy flavor, German spaetzle is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
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