Traditional German Biergarten Spätzle Recipe
This spaetzle or German pasta with sausage recipe, featuring little egg pasta dumplings, has been a beloved comfort food for centuries, especially in Southern Germany.
The Origins of Spaetzle
The history of spaetzle is not well-documented. However, it likely originated in the region of Swabia, located in southwestern Germany. According to legend, a young girl named Spätzle created German spaetzle while working as a cook for a wealthy family. One day, she was tasked with making noodles for the family but didn’t have any flour or eggs on hand. So, she improvised by mixing together milk, water, and a little bit of salt. She used a wooden spoon to scoop the batter into boiling water.
The resulting noodles delighted the family. They named the dish Spätzle, after the girl who created them. Over time, the dish spread throughout the German-speaking region of Europe and became a popular comfort food. Today, spaetzle is a popular dish in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. It is often served as a side dish or as a base for other meals.
Making the German Pasta with Sausage (Spaetzle) Recipe
With this spaetzle recipe, you will make German spaetzle “krautschupfnudeln” style. This version is popular at biergartens and festivals in Southern Germany, like Munich’s famous Oktoberfest. It features a harmonious blend of sauerkraut and sausage. Additionally, it wouldn’t be complete without a healthy side of authentic German mustard!
Pairing This German Pasta with Sausage (Spaetzle) Recipe with Beer
To truly transport yourself to Munich’s Oktoberfest, pair this spaetzle recipe with the right beer. An Oktoberfest style beer, marzen, dunkle, or other malty amber ale would complement the dish perfectly. Moreover, the rich flavors of the beer enhance the savory notes of the spaetzle and sausage, creating an authentic German culinary experience.
Conclusion
This spaetzle recipe offers a perfect way to enjoy a traditional German dish at home. Whether you prepare it for a family meal or a festive gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. Furthermore, pairing it with a classic German beer adds an extra layer of authenticity. For more delicious German recipes, check out our collection of European Recipes. If you need quality ingredients, visit German Supermarket.
Happy cooking!
German Biergarten Spätzle Recipe
Ingredients
- 10 oz Dry spaetzle
- 14 oz Sauerkraut
- 12 oz Bratwurst (or vegan brats)
- 100 ml Mustard (german senf)
- 2 tablespoon Butter (or cooking oil)
- 2 teaspoon Parsley (chopped, optional)
Drink Pairings (optional):
- 1 Oktoberfest-style beer
- 1 Dunkel (beer)
- 1 Apple cider
Instructions
Cook the Spaetzle:
- In a large saucepan, bring 4 quarts of salted water to a boil.
- Stir in the spaetzle and continue to boil, uncovered, according to package directions.
- Continue with the recipe while the spaetzle cooks…
Prep the Ingredients:
- Open the sauerkraut pouch and drain. Set aside.
Drain the Spaetzle:
- Drain and rinse starch off the spätzle in a colander. Shake off any excess water. Note: spätzle should be completely dry for the next step; pat dry with a paper towel, if needed.
Sauté Sausage & Spaetzle:
- Sauté the sausage in a large skillet on medium-high for 2-3 minutes (or until cooked if using your own sausage). Slice into ¼ inch medallions and set aside.
- Heat the butter/cooking oil in the same pan over medium-high. Add the cooked spaetzle, toss to coat, and cook for 3-5 minutes until golden brown (tip: for smaller pans, separate into 2 batches). Note: no need to stir constantly; enjoy your beverage instead!
Add Sauerkraut & Sausage:
- Add half of the sauerkraut and the sautéed sausage and cook for another 2 minutes to combine and warm.
Plate & Enjoy!
- Divide between plates and enjoy with the rest of the sauerkraut, mustard, and an (optional) Oktoberfest-style beer or apple cider.
- Optional: garnish with fresh parsley. Dinner music playlist “Oktoberfest” by Spotify.
- Guten Appetit!
Video
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Rachael says
Definitely hits the German food craving right around September/October.