The Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe is a traditional dish originating from the Swabian region of Germany. These dumplings, known for their rich history and unique preparation, have become a staple in German cuisine.
Maultaschen are essentially pockets of dough filled with a flavorful mixture. While the ingredients may vary slightly depending on the region and personal preferences, a typical filling consists of minced meat, such as beef or pork, combined with spinach and onions. The mixture is seasoned with various herbs and spices to enhance its taste.
The dough used for Maultaschen is a simple mixture of flour, water, and eggs. It is rolled out thinly and cut into squares or rectangles. The filling is then spooned onto the dough squares, and they are carefully folded and sealed to create the distinctive dumpling shape.
One of the remarkable aspects of Maultaschen is their versatility. These dumplings can be enjoyed in various ways, from being boiled and served in a clear broth to being pan-fried for a crispy texture. Some regions even bake them in a casserole dish with a creamy sauce.
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Maultaschen hold cultural significance in Germany, particularly in the Swabian region. Legend has it that they were invented by monks who sought to conceal meat during Lent by hiding it within the dumplings. Hence, they earned the nickname “Herrgottsbescheißerle,” which roughly translates to “little cheaters of the Lord.”
Today, Maultaschen remain a beloved dish, enjoyed by people of all ages. They can be found in restaurants and homes across Germany, and their delicious taste and history make them a fascinating part of German culinary heritage.
In summary, the Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe is a traditional German dish consisting of dough pockets filled with a flavorful mixture of meat, spinach, and onions. These dumplings are versatile and can be prepared in various ways, and they hold cultural significance in the Swabian region of Germany.
How To Make Our Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe
Ingredients (8 Servings)
For the Dough:
2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon oil
3 to 5 tablespoons water
For the Filling:
3 slices bacon, chopped
1/2 medium onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, chopped
8 ounces ground beef
5 ounces frozen spinach, thawed, squeezed dry, and chopped
1 ounce day-old French bread, about 1 thick slice, crust removed
1 large egg
2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon spicy mustard
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon dried marjoram
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 pinch ground black pepper
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough:
a. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 2/3 cups of all-purpose flour with 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
b. Make a well in the center and add 2 large eggs and 1 tablespoon of oil.
c. Gradually add 3 to 5 tablespoons of water while mixing until the dough forms.
d. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.
2. Prepare the Filling:
a. In a skillet, cook 3 slices of chopped bacon until crispy.
b. Add 1/2 medium chopped onion and 1 clove of chopped garlic to the skillet, sauté until translucent.
c. Add 8 ounces of ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces.
d. In a separate bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture with 5 ounces of thawed, squeezed dry, and chopped frozen spinach.
e. Add 1 ounce of day-old French bread (crust removed) and crumble it into the mixture.
f. Mix in 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley, 1 tablespoon of spicy mustard, 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/4 teaspoon of dried marjoram, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of ground black pepper.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
a. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough thinly.
b. Cut the dough into squares or rectangles of your desired size.
4. Fill and Shape the Maultaschen:
a. Place a portion of the prepared filling onto each dough square or rectangle.
b. Carefully fold the dough over the filling to create a pocket.
c. Seal the edges of the dough firmly to enclose the filling completely.
5. Cook the Maultaschen:
a. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
b. Add the prepared Maultaschen to the boiling water.
c. Cook them until they float to the surface, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Estimated Prep Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Estimated Cooking Time: Approximately 15 minutes
Pots, Pans and Cooking Equipment Needed for The Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe
Large mixing bowl
Skillet for cooking bacon and filling
Rolling pin for flattening the dough
Cutting board for preparing ingredients
Knife for chopping and slicing
Large pot for boiling Maultaschen
Slotted spoon for removing cooked Maultaschen
Best Way to Store Leftovers From The Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe
a. Allow leftover Maultaschen to cool to room temperature.
b. Place them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.
c. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
d. To freeze, wrap Maultaschen individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container.
e. Label the container with the date for easy identification.
f. Frozen Maultaschen can be stored for up to 3 months.
g. Reheat leftovers in the microwave or by boiling for a few minutes.
Tips and Tricks For Easier Creation
Ensure the dough is rolled out thin for better texture.
Seal the Maultaschen edges securely to prevent filling leakage.
Use a sharp knife for precise cutting of the dough.
Boil Maultaschen in batches for even cooking.
Keep the dough covered to prevent drying while assembling.
Experiment with different fillings for variety.
Freeze extra Maultaschen for later use.
Side Dishes and Desserts For the The Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe
a. Clear vegetable or beef broth
b. Potato salad
c. Sauerkraut
d. Coleslaw
e. Cucumber salad
f. Pickles
g. Green salad with vinaigrette dressing
How To Serve the Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe
a. Serve Maultaschen hot in a bowl of clear broth.
b. Garnish with chopped parsley for added flavor.
c. For pan-fried Maultaschen, serve with a side salad.
d. Offer mustard or dipping sauces for extra taste.
e. When serving with sauerkraut, place Maultaschen on top.
f. Arrange Maultaschen neatly on the serving platter.
g. Provide a ladle for serving broth with Maultaschen.
Dietary Substitution For The Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe
1. Vegan Options for the Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe:
a. Egg Substitute: Replace 2 large eggs with flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water).
b. Bacon Alternative: Use vegan bacon or smoked tofu instead of traditional bacon.
c. Ground Beef Replacement: Substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tempeh.
d. Dairy-Free Dough: Use plant-based milk and vegan margarine instead of eggs and dairy.
e. Egg Wash Alternative: Brush the dough with non-dairy milk for a golden finish.
2. Gluten-Free Options for the Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe:
a. Gluten-Free Flour: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
b. Gluten-Free Bread: Use gluten-free bread for the filling instead of regular French bread.
c. Gluten-Free Soy Sauce: Substitute spicy mustard with gluten-free Dijon mustard.
d. Gluten-Free Ground Meat: Choose gluten-free ground beef or a plant-based meat alternative.
e. Gluten-Free Pasta Dough: Opt for gluten-free pasta dough if available.
3. Vegetarian Options for the Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe:
a. Meatless Filling: Omit the ground beef and bacon, and use more spinach or meatless crumbles.
b. Veggie Bacon: Substitute traditional bacon with vegetarian bacon.
c. Egg-Free Filling: Skip the egg in the filling or use a suitable egg replacer.
d. Plant-Based Protein: Replace ground beef with plant-based protein like textured vegetable protein (TVP).
e. Mushroom Filling: Create a filling using mushrooms, onions, and garlic.
4. Mediterranean Diet Options for the Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe:
a. Lean Protein: Choose lean ground beef or ground turkey for the filling.
b. Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil instead of regular oil in the dough.
c. Fresh Herbs: Increase the use of fresh herbs like oregano and basil in the filling.
d. Spinach Variation: Add extra spinach to enhance the Mediterranean flavor.
e. Whole Wheat Dough: Use whole wheat flour for a heartier dough.
5. Keto Diet Options for the Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe:
a. Almond Flour Dough: Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour for a keto-friendly dough.
b. Turkey Bacon: Choose turkey bacon instead of regular bacon to reduce fat.
c. Avocado Oil: Use avocado oil in place of regular oil for a keto-friendly fat source.
d. Low-Carb Greens: Opt for low-carb greens like kale instead of spinach in the filling.
e. No Bread: Omit the bread from the filling or use almond meal instead.
6. Heart-Healthy Diet Options for the Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe:
a. Lean Meat: Select lean ground beef or ground turkey for a lower-fat filling.
b. Whole Wheat Dough: Use whole wheat flour for added fiber in the dough.
c. Low-Sodium Bacon: Choose low-sodium bacon to reduce salt content.
d. Olive Oil: Substitute olive oil for a heart-healthy fat in the dough.
e. Reduced-Sodium Broth: Serve with a low-sodium clear vegetable or beef broth.
7. Paleo Options for the Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe:
a. Almond Flour Dough: Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour for a paleo-friendly dough.
b. Coconut Aminos: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce in the filling.
c. Paleo Bacon: Choose bacon without added sugar and preservatives.
d. Cauliflower Rice: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of traditional side dishes.
e. Grain-Free Filling: Eliminate the bread in the filling and use more vegetables.
8. Low-Carb Options for the Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe:
a. Almond Flour Dough: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour for a low-carb dough.
b. Turkey Bacon: Choose turkey bacon to reduce carb content.
c. Low-Carb Greens: Opt for low-carb greens like kale instead of spinach in the filling.
d. No Bread: Omit the bread from the filling for lower carbs.
e. Low-Carb Sauces: Serve with low-carb dipping sauces or dressings.
9. Whole30 Options for the Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe:
a. Coconut Aminos: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce in the filling.
b. No Added Sugar Bacon: Choose bacon without added sugar.
c. Whole30 Compliant Bread: Use bread that adheres to Whole30 guidelines in the filling.
d. Lean Protein: Select lean ground beef or ground turkey for the filling.
e. Dairy-Free Dough: Use dairy-free options for the dough ingredients.
10. Weight Watchers Options for the Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe:
a. Turkey Bacon: Choose turkey bacon to reduce points.
b. Lean Ground Meat: Use lean ground beef or ground turkey to lower points.
c. Low-Point Dough: Opt for a dough with fewer points, using appropriate substitutions.
d. Reduced-Fat Filling: Use leaner meats and reduce fats for lower points.
e. Calorie-Free Sauces: Serve with low-calorie or calorie-free sauces.
11. Low-Fat Options for the Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe:
a. Lean Ground Meat: Choose lean ground beef or ground turkey for the filling.
b. Low-Fat Bacon: Select bacon with lower fat content.
c. Egg White: Use egg whites in place of whole eggs for lower fat.
d. Reduced-Fat Bread: Opt for bread with reduced fat in the filling.
e. Poultry Filling: Create a filling using ground chicken or turkey for lower fat content.
12. Vegetable Variations for the Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe:
a. Mushroom Filling: Replace the meat filling with a mixture of mushrooms, onions, and garlic.
b. Spinach and Cheese: Use a combination of spinach and cheese for a vegetarian option.
c. Zucchini Ribbons: Create ribbons of zucchini to wrap the filling instead of dough.
d. Cauliflower Mash: Serve the filling on a bed of mashed cauliflower for a low-carb version.
e. Sweet Potato Dumplings: Substitute the dough with sweet potato slices for a unique twist.
It’s always recommended to check labels, choose quality ingredients, and consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice. Please note that these substitutions are provided as options to align the recipe with various dietary preferences and restrictions. Always check labels and choose ingredients that fit your specific dietary needs. Consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice.
FAQ About The Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe
What is the origin of Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe?
Maultaschen, often referred to as Swabian pockets or German dumplings, originated in the Swabian region of Germany. They are a traditional dish with a long history, often associated with monasteries and Lent.
How are Maultaschen typically served?
Maultaschen can be served in various ways. The most common method is to cook them in a clear broth, creating a flavorful soup. They can also be pan-fried for a crispy texture or served with sauces and garnishes.
What are the traditional ingredients of Maultaschen?
Traditional Maultaschen consist of a dough made from flour, eggs, water, and salt, and a filling that includes ingredients like ground meat, spinach, onions, garlic, bread, and seasonings like thyme and marjoram.
Are there vegetarian or vegan variations of the Maultaschen recipe?
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan versions of Maultaschen. In these variations, the meat is replaced with plant-based ingredients, and egg substitutions are used in the dough to accommodate dietary preferences.
Can Maultaschen be frozen for later use?
Yes, Maultaschen can be frozen for later consumption. It’s recommended to freeze them individually or with layers of parchment paper to prevent sticking. Frozen Maultaschen can be stored for several months and cooked from frozen when needed.
Final Thoughts
“We are a couple who has visited and sampled food in every country in the world. We strive to get a local recipe for every dish we place on our blog. Some we have cooked in our kitchen but most we enjoyed in the restaurants and streets of the world. Our thoughts and opinions are based on the food we loved the most and you may find them and others you will fall in love with as well. Please enjoy the recipe and comment below.
The Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe is a traditional and beloved dish that originates from the Swabian region of Germany. These dumplings are known by various names, including Swabian pockets, Herrgottsbescheißerle (which translates to “Little God-cheaters”), and German ravioli. They have a rich history and are deeply rooted in the culinary culture of the region.
The Maultaschen dough is made from simple ingredients: all-purpose flour, eggs, salt, and a touch of oil and water. The dough is kneaded until smooth and elastic, then rolled out thinly. It serves as the casing for the delicious filling.
The filling is where Maultaschen truly shine. It typically consists of a flavorful mixture of ingredients. Ground meat, often a combination of beef and pork, is a key component, providing a hearty and savory flavor. Chopped spinach, onions, and garlic are added for a touch of freshness and earthiness.
A unique ingredient in the filling is day-old French bread. This bread, with its crust removed, is soaked in water and then squeezed dry before being incorporated into the filling mixture. It adds a wonderful texture and helps bind the ingredients together.
To enhance the taste profile of the Maultaschen, various seasonings are used. These include chopped parsley for a burst of herbaceousness, spicy mustard for a hint of heat, and a blend of dried thyme, dried marjoram, salt, and a pinch of ground black pepper to create a harmonious balance of flavors.
The preparation of Maultaschen involves placing spoonfuls of the flavorful filling onto the thinly rolled dough, leaving enough space between each portion. The dough is then folded over the filling, and the edges are sealed to create pocket-like dumplings. It’s important to make sure there are no air pockets trapped inside the Maultaschen.
Traditionally, Maultaschen are cooked in a clear broth, creating a comforting and satisfying soup. They can also be pan-fried to achieve a crispy texture on the outside, adding another layer of flavor and texture to the dish. Some enjoy them with a side of sauces, while others prefer them in a simple broth.
Maultaschen are not only a delicious culinary delight but also a symbol of the region’s culture and history. They are often associated with Lent and the idea of concealing meat during fasting. Hence, the name “Herrgottsbescheißerle” (Little God-cheaters) humorously reflects this tradition.
Whether enjoyed in the comfort of one’s home or at a local restaurant in the Swabian region, Maultaschen are a dish that captures the essence of German cuisine. They showcase the creativity and resourcefulness of cooks who, throughout history, found ways to make a filling and satisfying meal with readily available ingredients.
In conclusion, the Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe is a delightful representation of Swabian culinary heritage. With a simple yet flavorful filling encased in a thin dough, these dumplings are a testament to the ingenuity of regional cuisine. Whether enjoyed in a clear broth, pan-fried, or with various accompaniments, Maultaschen are a beloved dish that continues to bring joy to those who savor its taste.”
Maultaschen (German Dumplings) Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet for cooking bacon and filling
- Rolling pin for flattening the dough
- Cutting board for preparing ingredients
- Knife for chopping and slicing
- Large pot for boiling Maultaschen
- Slotted spoon for removing cooked Maultaschen
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour plus more for rolling
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp oil
- 3 to 5 tbsp water
For the Filling:
- 3 slices bacon chopped
- 1/2 onion medium chopped
- 1 clove garlic chopped
- 8 ounces ground beef
- 5 ounces spinach frozen - thawed, squeezed dry, and chopped
- 1 ounce bread day-old French - about 1 thick slice, crust removed
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp parsley chopped
- 1 tbsp spicy mustard
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp dried marjoram
- 1/4 ttsp salt
- 1 pinch ground black pepper
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
- a. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 2/3 cups of all-purpose flour with 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- b. Make a well in the center and add 2 large eggs and 1 tablespoon of oil.
- c. Gradually add 3 to 5 tablespoons of water while mixing until the dough forms.
- d. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Prepare the Filling:
- a. In a skillet, cook 3 slices of chopped bacon until crispy.
- b. Add 1/2 medium chopped onion and 1 clove of chopped garlic to the skillet, sauté until translucent.
- c. Add 8 ounces of ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces.
- d. In a separate bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture with 5 ounces of thawed, squeezed dry, and chopped frozen spinach.
- e. Add 1 ounce of day-old French bread (crust removed) and crumble it into the mixture.
- f. Mix in 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley, 1 tablespoon of spicy mustard, 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/4 teaspoon of dried marjoram, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of ground black pepper.
Roll Out the Dough:
- a. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough thinly.
- b. Cut the dough into squares or rectangles of your desired size.
Fill and Shape the Maultaschen:
- a. Place a portion of the prepared filling onto each dough square or rectangle.
- b. Carefully fold the dough over the filling to create a pocket.
- c. Seal the edges of the dough firmly to enclose the filling completely.
Cook the Maultaschen:
- a. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- b. Add the prepared Maultaschen to the boiling water.
- c. Cook them until they float to the surface, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
