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| DINNER STARRING SPAETZLE OR GERMAN EGG DUMPLINGS |
One of the things I like about this group is that I use forgotten gadgets and get things done on my to-do list.
About 10 years ago I found a spaetzle maker in a 1/2 off bin at a going-out-of-business kitchen store. The sale tag is still attached. It is by Norpro and cost me 5 bucks. Years ago we lived close to the Pennsylvania Dutch Country where we loved to visit especially for the good food. Our little children enjoyed spaetzle as a comfort food along the lines of mac 'n cheese. This noodle-dumpling like side is not easily found in the western states, in fact, I'll bet my neighbors have never heard of it.
The recipe for spaetzle is similar to my pillow-like dumplings that I made recently for my chicken and dumpling soup....right down to the nutmeg. My recipe is one that was handed down from my great-grandmother and can be put together in a way similar to today's spaetzle or it can be cooked on the stovetop like cream puff dough, which would be more French, and then added to the broth. Instead of pushing the dough through small holes to make a fun shape, I portion my dumplings out quickly with a spoon.
Each time I make dumplings I think about getting out my spaetzle gadget, which has never been used until today, but it seems like a hassle. My tool looks similar to a flat grater, but with larger holes, and I must say that it makes the cutest little noodle-like dumplings. And it was not a hassle. It was easy as was the clean-up. A gadget that actually works on the first try. Great!
I have my Thanksgiving herbs still growing and looking lovely out in my winter garden so I snipped sage, parsley, rosemary, and thyme which came together with their aromatic flavors and beautiful green color to "speckle" my spaetzle and add great flavor.
In keeping with the German-French theme I cooked sausages and added a couple of veges to make a healthier meal and to add color.
I'm sure I'll find lots of great dinner ideas among your posts. We're continuing to enjoy the Holidays as the kiddies are not yet back in school, the decorations are still up, and we continue to enjoy lots of yummy food and treats. Hope you are also enjoying your week. Look forward to seeing all your posts!
