german bread dumplings recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best german bread dumplings recipe

German bread dumplings, also known as Semmelkloß or Brezelnkloß, are a traditional dish from the Bavarian region of Germany. They are essentially bread dumplings made from a mixture of bread, eggs, and milk, which is then cooked in a flavorful broth. I discovered this recipe while researching German comfort food and I was immediately drawn to its simplicity and rich flavors.

My family loves this dish because it’s easy to make and packed with nutrients. The best part is that you can customize it to your liking by adding different herbs and spices to the dough. I like to use fresh parsley and thyme for a classic flavor combination.

My kids enjoy helping me mix the dough and watching the dumplings cook in the pot. It’s a fun and interactive meal that we all look forward to making together. As for the health benefits, German bread dumplings are an excellent source of fiber, protein, and complex carbohydrates.

The bread provides sustained energy, while the eggs and milk offer essential vitamins and minerals. This hearty meal is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a quick weeknight dinner. I love serving it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

In fact, my kids have asked me to make this dish so often that I’ve started keeping a batch of the dough in the fridge for easy reheating.

German Bread Dumplings

4.6 from 1350 votes

These hearty German bread dumplings, known as Semmelknödel, are made from stale white bread rolls, milk, eggs, and fresh parsley. They are a classic side dish for roasts and stews, offering a soft and comforting texture that soaks up gravy beautifully.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dumplings

10 cups stale white bread cubes (from about 8-10 rolls)
1 cup warm milk
3 large eggs
1 small onion, finely diced
3 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cooking Liquid

8 cups water
2 teaspoons salt

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the stale bread cubes in a large mixing bowl and pour the warm milk over them.
2Let the bread soak for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the milk is fully absorbed and the bread is soft.
3In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and saute the diced onion for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
4Remove the skillet from the heat and let the onions cool slightly.
5Add the sauteed onions, eggs, parsley, salt, nutmeg, and pepper to the soaked bread mixture.
6Mix thoroughly with your hands until a cohesive dough forms that holds together when pressed.
7Shape the dough into 6 equal-sized balls, each about 2 inches in diameter, pressing firmly to ensure they are compact.
8If the dough is too sticky, wet your hands slightly with water.
9Bring the 8 cups of water with 2 teaspoons of salt to a gentle simmer in a large pot over medium-high heat.
10Reduce the heat to low so the water is barely bubbling.
11Carefully lower the dumplings into the simmering water using a slotted spoon.
12Cover the pot and let them cook for 20 minutes without lifting the lid, then flip them gently and cook for another 10 minutes until they are puffed and firm to the touch.
13Remove the dumplings with a slotted spoon and drain them briefly on a plate.
14Serve immediately as a side dish with gravy, roasted meats, or mushroom sauce.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Large pot
Slotted spoon
Skillet
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 10g

📝Notes

For best results, use bread that is 1 to 2 days old. If the dough feels too wet, add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs at a time until it holds shape. These dumplings can be sliced and pan-fried in butter for a crispy exterior.

Watch Video Of How German Bread Dumplings Works

This German bread dumpling recipe is always a good idea for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a quick weeknight dinner. The best part is that you can customize it to your liking by adding different herbs and spices to the dough.

My kids enjoy helping me mix the dough and watching the dumplings cook in the pot. We love serving this hearty meal with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About German Bread Dumplings

Q: What type of bread do I use for German bread dumplings?

I recommend using a dense, dark rye bread or a hearty whole wheat bread for this recipe. The dense texture will help the dumplings hold their shape when cooked.

Q: Can I use store-bought broth instead of making my own?

While store-bought broth will work in a pinch, making your own broth from scratch will elevate the flavors of this dish significantly.

Q: How do I prevent the dumplings from breaking apart when cooking them?

To prevent the dumplings from breaking apart, make sure to not overmix the dough and handle them gently when placing them into the pot.

Q: Can I customize this recipe with different herbs and spices?

Yes, feel free to experiment with various herbs and spices to create your own signature flavor combinations.

Q: Can I make these dumplings ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

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