German Semmelknodel Recipe is a traditional dish from Germany. It is a type of dumpling made with bread, eggs, and spices. The recipe starts by soaking stale bread rolls in warm milk until they become soft. Then, the bread is mixed with beaten eggs, finely chopped onions, and a sprinkle of parsley. The mixture is seasoned with salt, pepper, and nutmeg for added flavor.
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The prepared dough is formed into round dumplings and simmered in a pot of boiling salted water until they are cooked through. The Semmelknodel dumplings are light and fluffy, with a slightly crisp exterior. They have a mild, savory taste that pairs well with a variety of dishes.
One of the great things about German Semmelknodel Recipe is its versatility. These dumplings can be served as a side dish with meats like roasted chicken or pork. They can also be used as a base for soups or stews, adding a hearty and filling element to the dish. Their neutral flavor allows them to complement a wide range of flavors.
In terms of nutritional benefits, German Semmelknodel Recipe provides a good amount of carbohydrates from the bread and eggs. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for our bodies. The dish also contains some protein from the eggs, which is essential for building and repairing tissues. Additionally, the use of onions and parsley adds a touch of vitamins and minerals to the recipe.
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While German Semmelknodel Recipe may not be considered a health food on its own, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. It offers a satisfying and comforting meal option that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults alike. So, if you’re looking to try something new and delicious, give German Semmelknodel Recipe a try and experience the flavors of Germany.
How To Make Our German Semmelknodel Recipe
Ingredients (8 Servings)
16 ounces of white crusty bread (traditionally Brötchen/crispy bread rolls are used) , left to sit out for a few days to get hard and then diced into small cubes
1 cup milk, hot
1 tablespoon butter
3/4 cup yellow onion, very finely diced
8 strips bacon, diced and fried until crisp this is optional for a variation called Speckknödel (Bacon Bread Dumplings)
3 eggs, lightly beaten with a fork
3 tablespoonsfresh parsley, finely chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly ground
breadcrumbs, as needed
salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread Cubes:
a. Take 16 ounces of white crusty bread (traditionally crispy bread rolls) and let them sit out for a few days until they become hard.
b. Dice the bread into small cubes and set them aside.
2. Soak the Bread Cubes:
a. In a bowl, pour 1 cup of hot milk over the bread cubes.
b. Allow the bread cubes to soak in the milk for about 10 minutes, or until they become soft and moist.
3. Sauté the Onion:
a. In a pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
b. Add ¾ cup of very finely diced yellow onion to the pan.
c. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent and lightly golden in color.
d. Remove the pan from heat and let the onion cool for a few minutes.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
a. In a separate bowl, lightly beat 3 large eggs with a fork.
b. Add the cooled sautéed onion to the beaten eggs.
c. Stir in 3 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley.
d. Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and 1/8 teaspoon of freshly ground nutmeg.
e. Optional: If desired, add 8 strips of diced and fried bacon for a variation called Speckknödel (Bacon Bread Dumplings).
5. Combine the Bread and Egg Mixtures:
a. Pour the egg mixture over the soaked bread cubes.
b. Gently mix everything together until the bread cubes are well coated with the egg mixture.
c. If the mixture seems too wet, add breadcrumbs as needed to achieve a firm consistency.
d. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the flavors.
6. Shape the Dumplings:
a. With slightly wet hands, take a handful of the bread mixture and shape it into a ball.
b. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used, forming 8 evenly-sized dumplings.
7. Cook the Semmelknodel:
a. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
b. Gently drop the dumplings into the boiling water.
c. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the dumplings for about 20 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
d. Once the dumplings are cooked, carefully remove them from the pot using a slotted spoon.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
a. Place the German Semmelknodel on a serving platter.
b. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
c. Serve the dumplings as a side dish with meat dishes or with your favorite sauce.
Estimated Prep Time: 30 minutes
Estimated Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Pots, Pan and Cooking Equipment Needed for the German Semmelknodel Recipe
Large bowl for soaking the bread cubes
Pan for sautéing the onions
Mixing bowl for combining the egg mixture
Large pot for boiling the dumplings
Slotted spoon for removing the cooked dumplings
Serving platter for presenting the Semmelknodel
Best Way to Store Leftovers From the the German Semmelknodel Recipe
a. Place any leftover Semmelknodel in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
b. Store the container in the refrigerator to keep the dumplings from spoiling.
c. The dumplings can be refrigerated for up to 2-3 days.
d. To reheat the leftovers, steam the dumplings or gently heat them in a saucepan with a little butter.
e. Enjoy the reheated Semmelknodel as a delicious leftover side dish.
Tips and Tricks For Easier Creation
Soak the bread cubes well to achieve a soft and moist texture.
Allow the egg mixture to sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld.
Wetting your hands slightly while shaping the dumplings will prevent sticking.
If the mixture seems too wet, gradually add breadcrumbs until it reaches the desired consistency.
Cooking the dumplings at a gentle simmer will help them cook evenly without falling apart.
Experiment with adding variations like diced and fried bacon for extra flavor.
Serve the Semmelknodel with a flavorful sauce or gravy to enhance the overall taste.
Side Dishes and Desserts For the the German Semmelknodel Recipe
Roast pork or beef with gravy
Braised cabbage or sauerkraut
Green beans with almonds
Creamy mushroom sauce
Mustard sauce
Red cabbage slaw
Mixed salad with vinaigrette dressing
How To Serve the German Semmelknodel Recipe
a. Arrange the cooked Semmelknodel on a serving platter.
b. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added color.
c. Serve the dumplings alongside your main meat dish.
d. Drizzle the Semmelknodel with the desired sauce or gravy.
e. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
f. Enjoy the Semmelknodel while they are still warm and flavorful.
Dietary Substitution For the German Semmelknodel Recipe
1. Vegan Options for the German Semmelknodel Recipe?
a. Substitute the 3 large eggs with a vegan egg replacer, such as mashed banana or applesauce.
b. Use plant-based milk, like almond milk or soy milk, instead of hot milk.
c. Replace the butter with a vegan margarine or coconut oil.
d. Omit the bacon for the Speckknödel variation, or use vegan bacon alternatives.
e. Use vegetable broth or vegan bouillon cubes instead of bacon for added flavor.
f. Opt for vegan breadcrumbs made from plant-based ingredients, or make your own using toasted vegan bread.
g. Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
2. Gluten-Free Options for the German Semmelknodel Recipe?
a. Choose gluten-free crusty bread or bread rolls.
b. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or finely ground gluten-free crackers.
c. Replace the hot milk with a dairy-free, gluten-free alternative.
d. Substitute the regular butter with dairy-free, gluten-free butter.
e. Ensure the bacon used is gluten-free or omit it for the Speckknödel variation.
f. Use gluten-free flour or a gluten-free egg replacement in the egg mixture.
g. Check all ingredients for potential gluten contamination.
3. Vegetarian Options for the German Semmelknodel Recipe?
a. No specific substitutions are needed as the recipe is already vegetarian-friendly.
4. Mediterranean Diet Options for the German Semmelknodel Recipe?
a. Use whole grain crusty bread for added fiber and nutrients.
b. Replace the butter with extra virgin olive oil.
c. Include the diced yellow onion for authentic flavor.
d. Omit the bacon for a lighter version, or use a lean turkey bacon if desired.
e. Season with Mediterranean herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary.
f. Serve with a fresh tomato and cucumber salad on the side.
g. Drizzle with a light lemon and olive oil dressing.
5. Keto Diet Options for the German Semmelknodel Recipe?
a. Replace the bread cubes with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb alternative.
b. Use full-fat milk or a combination of heavy cream and water instead of hot milk.
c. Replace the diced onion with onion powder or chives for lower carb content.
d. Include the bacon for added fat and flavor.
e. Season with keto-friendly herbs and spices like garlic powder, paprika, or dried parsley.
f. Serve with a grilled or roasted meat of your choice.
g. Top with melted butter or a dollop of sour cream.
6. Heart Healthy Diet Options for the German Semmelknodel Recipe?
a. Choose whole grain bread for added fiber.
b. Use a small amount of heart-healthy oil, like olive oil, instead of butter.
c. Saute the onion in a non-stick pan with minimal oil.
d. Omit or reduce the amount of bacon used.
e. Season with herbs and spices rather than relying on salt.
f. Serve with a lean protein, such as grilled chicken or fish.
g. Accompany with steamed vegetables or a green salad.
7. Paleo Options for the German Semmelknodel Recipe?
a. Replace the bread cubes with almond flour or coconut flour.
b. Use full-fat coconut milk instead of hot milk.
c. Substitute ghee or coconut oil for butter.
d. Include the bacon for added flavor, using sugar-free, nitrate-free bacon if possible.
e. Season with paleo-approved herbs and spices like garlic powder, thyme, or sage.
f. Serve with a roasted or grilled meat of your choice.
g. Top with clarified butter or a paleo-friendly sauce.
8. Low Carb Options for the German Semmelknodel Recipe?
a. Replace the bread cubes with cauliflower rice or shredded zucchini.
b. Use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk instead of hot milk.
c. Replace the butter with a low-carb oil, such as avocado oil.
d. Include the bacon for added fat and flavor.
e. Season with low-carb herbs and spices like onion powder, garlic powder, or dried thyme.
f. Serve with a lean protein, like grilled chicken or steak.
g. Top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese (if allowed).
9. Whole30 Options for the German Semmelknodel Recipe?
a. Use compliant crusty bread or bread rolls.
b. Replace the butter with ghee or clarified butter.
c. Include the yellow onion for flavor.
d. Omit the bacon or use sugar-free, nitrate-free bacon if desired.
e. Season with Whole30-approved herbs and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or dried parsley.
f. Serve with grilled or roasted meat or fish.
g. Top with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice.
10. Weight Watchers Options for the German Semmelknodel Recipe?
a. Choose light bread or bread rolls to reduce the SmartPoints.
b. Use reduced-fat milk or a combination of skim milk and water instead of hot milk.
c. Use a reduced-fat butter or butter substitute.
d. Opt for lean turkey bacon or omit it for a lower SmartPoints value.
e. Season with herbs and spices to enhance flavors without adding extra points.
f. Serve with a lean protein, such as grilled chicken or turkey breast.
g. Top with a low-fat gravy or sauce.
11. Low Fat Options for the German Semmelknodel Recipe?
a. Choose a low-fat crusty bread or bread rolls.
b. Use skim milk or low-fat milk instead of hot milk.
c. Use a low-fat butter substitute or cooking spray.
d. Omit the bacon or use lean turkey bacon for a lower fat option.
e. Season with herbs, spices, and flavorful vegetables.
f. Serve with a lean protein, like grilled chicken or fish.
g. Top with a low-fat gravy or sauce.
12. Vegetable Variations for the German Semmelknodel Recipe?
a. Include finely diced vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added texture and flavor.
b. Use vegetable broth instead of hot milk for a vegetarian version.
c. Replace the butter with a plant-based spread or olive oil.
d. Omit the bacon for a vegetarian option or use vegetarian bacon alternatives.
e. Season with a variety of herbs and spices to enhance the vegetable flavors.
f. Serve with a vegetable-based sauce or gravy.
g. Top with sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions.
Please note that the given substitutions are general suggestions, and individual dietary needs and preferences may vary. It’s always recommended to check labels, choose quality ingredients, and consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice.
FAQ About the German Semmelknodel Recipe
How long does it take to make the German Semmelknodel Recipe?
The German Semmelknodel Recipe takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare.
Can I make the German Semmelknodel Recipe without using bacon?
Yes, the bacon is optional in the recipe. You can omit it or replace it with a vegetarian or vegan bacon alternative if desired.
Can I use gluten-free bread to make the German Semmelknodel Recipe?
Yes, you can use gluten-free crusty bread or bread rolls to make a gluten-free version of the German Semmelknodel Recipe.
What are some side dishes that pair well with the German Semmelknodel Recipe?
Some side dishes that pair well with the German Semmelknodel Recipe include roast pork or beef with gravy, braised cabbage or sauerkraut, green beans with almonds, creamy mushroom sauce, mustard sauce, red cabbage slaw, and mixed salad with vinaigrette dressing.
Can I make the German Semmelknodel Recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, you can make the German Semmelknodel Recipe vegan by using a vegan egg replacer, plant-based milk, vegan margarine or coconut oil, and omitting the bacon or using vegan bacon alternatives.
Remember to always refer to the German Semmelknodel Recipe for specific ingredient quantities and instructions.
Final Thoughts
The German Semmelknodel Recipe is a traditional dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table. Made with crusty bread, milk, eggs, onions, and seasonings, these dumplings offer a mild and satisfying taste. The bread is soaked in hot milk, creating a soft and slightly chewy texture. The addition of finely diced onions and fresh parsley adds a touch of freshness to the dish.
What makes the German Semmelknodel Recipe versatile is its ability to complement various main dishes. Whether served alongside roast pork, beef, or poultry, these dumplings pair well with rich gravies and sauces. The recipe can be easily adapted to suit different preferences, with options like adding bacon for extra flavor or keeping it simple with just the basic ingredients.
From a nutritional standpoint, the German Semmelknodel Recipe provides a good source of carbohydrates from the bread and eggs. It also offers some protein from the eggs and milk used in the preparation. However, it’s important to note that this dish is typically served as a side and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
In conclusion, the German Semmelknodel Recipe is a versatile and flavorful dish that holds a special place in German cuisine. Its mild taste and soft texture make it a comforting addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking to try a new side dish or explore German culinary traditions, the German Semmelknodel Recipe offers a delightful experience for your taste buds.
German Semmelknodel Recipe
Equipment
- Large bowl for soaking the bread cubes
- Pan for sautéing the onions
- Mixing bowl for combining the egg mixture
- Large pot for boiling the dumplings
- Slotted spoon for removing the cooked dumplings
- Serving platter for presenting the Semmelknodel
Ingredients
- 16 ounces bread traditionally Brötchen/crispy bread rolls are used , left to sit out for a few days to get hard and then diced into small cubes
- 1 cup milk hot
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3/4 cup yellow onion very finely diced
- 8 pieces bacon diced and fried until crisp this is optional for a variation called Speckknödel (Bacon Bread Dumplings)
- 3 eggs lightly beaten with a fork
- 3 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg freshly ground
- breadcrumbs as needed
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Bread Cubes:
- a. Take 16 ounces of white crusty bread (traditionally crispy bread rolls) and let them sit out for a few days until they become hard.
- b. Dice the bread into small cubes and set them aside.
Soak the Bread Cubes:
- a. In a bowl, pour 1 cup of hot milk over the bread cubes.
- b. Allow the bread cubes to soak in the milk for about 10 minutes, or until they become soft and moist.
Sauté the Onion:
- a. In a pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- b. Add ¾ cup of very finely diced yellow onion to the pan.
- c. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent and lightly golden in color.
- d. Remove the pan from heat and let the onion cool for a few minutes.
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- a. In a separate bowl, lightly beat 3 large eggs with a fork.
- b. Add the cooled sautéed onion to the beaten eggs.
- c. Stir in 3 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley.
- d. Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and 1/8 teaspoon of freshly ground nutmeg.
- e. Optional: If desired, add 8 strips of diced and fried bacon for a variation called Speckknödel (Bacon Bread Dumplings).
Combine the Bread and Egg Mixtures:
- a. Pour the egg mixture over the soaked bread cubes.
- b. Gently mix everything together until the bread cubes are well coated with the egg mixture.
- c. If the mixture seems too wet, add breadcrumbs as needed to achieve a firm consistency.
- d. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the flavors.
Shape the Dumplings:
- a. With slightly wet hands, take a handful of the bread mixture and shape it into a ball.
- b. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used, forming 8 evenly-sized dumplings.
Cook the Semmelknodel:
- a. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- b. Gently drop the dumplings into the boiling water.
- c. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the dumplings for about 20 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
- d. Once the dumplings are cooked, carefully remove them from the pot using a slotted spoon.
Serve and Enjoy:
- a. Place the German Semmelknodel on a serving platter.
- b. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
- c. Serve the dumplings as a side dish with meat dishes or with your favorite sauce.
