German Spaetzle Recipe (Homemade Egg Noodles)

Spaetzle are small, soft German egg noodles made from a simple batter of flour, eggs and milk. They are quick to make without special equipment, and they go with gravy, cheese or butter. This recipe makes enough for four people.

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt, plus extra for the water
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk
• ¼ cup (60 ml) water, added as needed
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• 2 tbsp butter, for frying (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley, to serve

Method

1. Whisk the flour and salt in a large bowl. Make a well in the centre, add the eggs and milk, and beat until smooth. The batter should be thick but fall from a spoon in slow ribbons. Add water a spoonful at a time if it is too stiff.
2. Let the batter rest for 15 minutes.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
4. Press the batter through a spaetzle press or a colander with large holes into the boiling water, working in batches. You can also spread it on a wet board and scrape thin strips into the pot with a knife.
5. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the noodles float, then 30 seconds more. Lift them out with a slotted spoon and drain.
6. For extra flavour, fry the drained spaetzle in melted butter for 2 minutes until lightly golden. Season and sprinkle with parsley. Serve with gravy, cheese or buttered breadcrumbs.

Tips

• If the batter is too runny, the noodles will fall apart. Keep it thick enough to drop slowly.
• Cook in batches so the water keeps boiling.
• Spaetzle can be cooked a day ahead, cooled and fried in butter before serving.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between spaetzle and noodles?

Spaetzle are soft, irregular egg dumplings made from a loose batter, while noodles are usually rolled and cut dough.

Do I need a spaetzle press?

No. A colander with large holes or a knife on a wet board works just as well.

What do you serve with spaetzle?

Gravy, cheese such as Emmentaler or Gruyere, buttered breadcrumbs, or alongside schnitzel and sausages.

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