The perfect comfort food – Krautschupfnudeln. It is almost impossible to go to a christmas market in germany and not have at least one booth selling this delicious dish. However, this recipe is for Krautspätzle, a preparation which is quite similar to German christmas market Krautschupfnudeln. Spätzle are a traditional pasta which is made with fresh eggs. Whereas Schupfnudeln are prepared with potatoes and are thicker. They are rather a dumpling than a noodle and definitely more heavy and filling. I like the version with Spätzle more as it gives you more room for Sauerkraut on your plate (and frying pan!) and the relation of carbs to kraut is just better in my opinion, with Spätzle. So, here my version of German Krautspaetzle with bacon ham, served with some fresh chives.
Krautspätzle may be a staple at markets in the period before Christmas, you can of course also enjoy them endlessly all winter. Especially in the weeks after the new year when it’s still chilly outside. You might also be interested in other German recipes.
What you will need for a portion of German Krautspätzle, similar to Krautschupfnudeln
Spätzle – they are one of the two main characters of this dish, Spätzle. Originally from the area of Swabia in southern Germany they are a egg noodle. Usually prepared by “cutting” thing pieces of fresh dough right into boiling water. Simmer them for s short period of time and serve them immediately. Nowadays you usually buy them dry and cook them fully at home. Of course you can also prepare them from scratch yourself, or buy them “fresh”. Sometimes you won’t even need to cook, just reheat, them before serving and enjoying.
Sauerkraut – the other super important ingredient of this hearty winter dish. Sauerkraut can also be bought pre-made, canned, or fresh from the Supermarket refrigerated counter. Or, prepare it yourself. But give it a good resting time for a full fermentation process. You can also buy Sauerkraut with pineapple for example, this will give the Krautspaetzle another nice, fresh, touch.
Bacon Ham – this is absolutely optional. But if you do eat meat, and want something extra “crunchy”, add some cubed or thinly sliced bacon ham of your choice to the dish. Make sure it fry and not only cook the meat!