German Potato Dumplings, known as Kartoffelknödel, are a beloved dish in Germany and beyond. These soft, pillowy dumplings are made primarily from starchy potatoes and are an excellent side dish for various meals. Whether served with rich gravies, sauces, or stews, they have a satisfying texture that perfectly absorbs flavors.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make German Potato Dumplings because they are simple to prepare and require minimal ingredients. They are perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, or any time you want to impress your guests with a touch of comfort food. Plus, they are a wonderful way to enjoy fresh, starchy potatoes.
How to Make German Potato Dumplings
Ingredients
- Starchy potatoes
- Flour
- Eggs
- Salt
- Nutmeg
Directions
- Peel and boil the starchy potatoes until tender.
- Mash the potatoes and let them cool.
- In a bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with flour, eggs, salt, and nutmeg to form a dough.
- Shape the dough into balls.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the dumplings.
- Cook until they float to the surface, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and serve with gravy or stew.
How to Serve German Potato Dumplings
German Potato Dumplings are best served warm, straight from the pot. They pair wonderfully with rich gravies, sauces, or hearty stews. You can also serve them with sautéed onions and crispy bacon for extra flavor.
How to Store German Potato Dumplings
If you have leftover dumplings, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep for about 2-3 days. To reheat, simply drop them into boiling water for a couple of minutes until warmed through.
Tips to Make German Potato Dumplings
- Use starchy potatoes for the best texture. Russets or Yukon Golds work well.
- Make sure to cool the mashed potatoes completely before mixing in the other ingredients.
- Don’t overwork the dough; mixing just enough to combine will help keep the dumplings light and fluffy.
Variation
For a twist, you can add herbs like parsley or chives to the dough for added flavor. Some recipes also include bread crumbs or cheese in the center of the dumplings for a delicious surprise.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of potatoes?
While starchy potatoes give the best results, you can experiment with all-purpose potatoes. However, the texture may differ.
2. Can I freeze cooked dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze cooked dumplings. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to an airtight container. Reheat them in boiling water.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours. Just make sure to shape the dumplings when you’re ready to cook them.
