Spätzle is a type of soft egg noodle originating from southern Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and South Tyrol. Often described as “button noodles” or “little sparrows,” spätzle is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a savory or sweet treat. Whether served as a side dish with rich gravies or as the main ingredient in dishes like Käsespätzle (cheese spätzle), this homemade delight is sure to become a family favorite.
What Makes Spätzle Special?
If you haven’t tried spätzle before, you’re in for a treat. This easy homemade spätzle recipe is a great alternative to rice, noodles, or potatoes. One of its key advantages is that it can be made in advance, reducing the stress of preparing a meal for the whole family. The chewy texture and mild flavor make it an ideal accompaniment to a wide variety of dishes.
While Germany is known for its delicious cakes like German Apple Streusel Sheet Cake and Plum Cake with Streusel, savory dishes like Schnitzel, pork roast, and dumplings hold a special place in German cuisine. Spätzle is a star among these savory delights!
Spätzle: A Versatile Culinary Delight
Spätzle is a fantastic side dish for anything with a sauce or gravy, such as goulash or beef stroganoff. It also shines as a main course when paired with melted cheese and crispy fried onions, or a simple mushroom gravy. Its adaptability makes it a staple in many German kitchens.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The word “Spätzle” literally translates to “little sparrows” in English. In some parts of Germany, they are also known as Knöpfle, which means “little buttons,” due to their shape. These noodles come in various sizes and shapes throughout Germany, reflecting regional variations in preparation and presentation.
Variations exist even within families! The author’s mother-in-law makes a larger version called Spatzen (“sparrows”), which are similar in taste but about the size of small potatoes. These larger spätzle are perfect for those who prefer not to use special equipment.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought Spätzle
For years, pre-made spätzle was a convenient option for many. However, once you experience homemade spätzle, there’s no going back! Made with simple ingredients like flour, eggs, and milk (or water), spätzle is surprisingly easy to make from scratch, and the taste is far superior to the store-bought variety. Think of them as German egg noodles with a delightful homemade touch.
Essential Tools for Making Spätzle
The easiest way to make spätzle at home is by using a spaetzle maker. These come in various designs, but a common type is a board with holes and a scraper, such as this one. Even beginners will find it simple to use.
Alternatively, you can make spätzle without a press by using a colander or steamer with large holes. Chances are, you already have one of these in your kitchen!
Step-by-Step: How to Make Spätzle
- Place a few spoonfuls of dough onto the spaetzle board.
- Slide the scraper back and forth, allowing the batter to drop through the holes into simmering water.
- Cook for about a minute or until the spätzle rise to the surface.
Use a large pot to prevent sticking. If making a large batch, drain the first portion to make room for the rest. If not serving immediately, toss with a little butter to prevent sticking.
To reheat, melt butter in a pan and toss the spätzle until warmed through. The slight crispiness adds an extra layer of flavor. Don’t forget to try the easy Käsespätzle recipe with any leftovers!
Spätzle Dough: The Key Ingredients
The spätzle batter primarily consists of eggs and flour. In Germany, special Spätzle flour is available, which is slightly coarser than all-purpose flour. However, all-purpose flour works perfectly well. Avoid using self-rising flour, as it will result in a disastrous outcome.
While some recipes call for eggs only, adding a bit of water or milk makes the process easier. There’s ongoing debate about whether water or milk is more traditional, but milk adds a richer flavor, although water is a suitable substitute for those with milk allergies.
Traditionally, spätzle has a mild flavor to complement flavorful sauces and toppings. However, you can enhance the taste by adding herbs like parsley, chives, or basil to the batter.
Conclusion: Embrace the World of Spätzle
Spätzle is more than just a noodle; it’s a cultural experience. From its humble origins to its versatile applications in modern cuisine, spätzle offers something for everyone. So, gather your ingredients, try this easy homemade recipe, and discover the deliciousness of German spätzle. Whether you serve it as a side or a main course, it’s sure to be a hit!
