Spaetzle is a delightful traditional German pasta that’s incredibly versatile and comforting. Made with just a few basic ingredients, it’s a dish that transforms a simple meal into something special. Whether as a side or the main event, spaetzle is sure to impress with its soft, tender texture.
The base of this recipe is all-purpose flour, which provides structure and substance to the spaetzle. We add a touch of salt for flavor, while nutmeg brings a subtle warmth that’s traditional in German cooking. A pinch of white pepper gives just a hint of spice without overpowering. The eggs are crucial for binding everything together, and whole milk ensures a rich, tender dough. Finally, butter is tossed with the cooked spaetzle for a luscious finish, and fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, though it’s optional.
Spaetzle pairs beautifully with rich, savory dishes like beef goulash or sauerbraten. For a lighter touch, try serving it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. It’s also fantastic tossed with a bit of browned butter and topped with grated cheese for a simple, satisfying meal.
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and adding your dry ingredients: the flour, salt, nutmeg, and white pepper. Give them a quick mix to ensure everything is evenly distributed. In a separate bowl, crack open your eggs and pour in the milk, then whisk until you have a smooth, uniform mixture.
Gradually incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry ones. Stir gently but thoroughly until you have a smooth batter. It should be thick but still pliable. Meanwhile, bring a large pot with 3 quarts of water to a rolling boil. This is where the magic happens.
Now, using a spaetzle maker or the holes of a colander, press the batter into the boiling water. The batter will form little dumplings that cook quickly. You’ll know they’re done when they float to the surface, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Scoop them out with a slotted spoon, letting any excess water drip off, and transfer them to a bowl.
While they're still warm, toss the spaetzle with butter to prevent them from sticking together. If you’re using it, sprinkle some parsley over the top for a fresh finish. Serve immediately, and enjoy!
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