Authentic Hungarian Nokedli: A Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Ingredients

2 cups of all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1/2 cup of water
1/2 teaspoon of salt
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil (for cooking)

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, mix together the flour and salt.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Then, gradually add water to the eggs, stirring continuously.
Pour the egg mixture into the bowl with the flour and salt. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Place a spaetzle maker or a large holed cheese grater over the pot of boiling water. Push the dough through the holes directly into the water.
Cook the nokedli until they float to the surface, then let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Drain the nokedli and rinse with warm water.
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the nokedli and fry until they are slightly golden.
Serve the nokedli immediately, as a side dish or as a part of a main course.

Tools for making

Large bowl - Used for mixing the flour and salt.
Separate bowl - Used for beating the eggs and gradually adding water.
Spaetzle maker or large-holed cheese grater - Used to shape the nokedli and push the dough through into the boiling water.
Large pot - Used to boil the water for cooking the nokedli.
Colander - Used for draining the cooked nokedli.
Large skillet - Used for frying the nokedli in vegetable oil.
Spatula or slotted spoon - Used for flipping and stirring the nokedli while frying.

Recipe variations

Whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour
Adding grated cheese to the dough for a cheesy flavor
Using vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor
Adding herbs or spices to the dough, such as parsley, dill, or paprika
Making a gluten-free version using a gluten-free flour blend
Serving the nokedli with a sauce, such as mushroom sauce, tomato sauce, or sour cream
Adding cooked bacon or ham for a meaty option
Using different shapes for the nokedli, such as small dumplings or longer, thinner pieces
Experimenting with different cooking methods, such as baking or pan-frying instead of boiling
Adding vegetables, such as peas, spinach, or mushrooms, to the nokedli for a more colorful dish

Recipe overview

Nokedli is a traditional Hungarian dumpling that pairs perfectly with rich, hearty stews or can be enjoyed as a standalone dish. These bite-sized dumplings are incredibly simple to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients: flour, eggs, water, and salt. By pushing the dough through a spaetzle maker or a large holed cheese grater, you'll create delicate little dumplings that are then boiled until they float to the surface. A quick fry in some vegetable oil gives these dumplings just the right amount of crispiness on the outside, while keeping them soft and tender on the inside. This recipe will guide you through the steps to make these delightful dumplings, providing you with a taste of Hungarian cuisine in your own kitchen.

Common questions

Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use other types of flour like wheat flour or semolina flour, but it may slightly alter the texture and taste of the nokedli.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze the cooked nokedli?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked nokedli. After boiling and draining, let them cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Can I reheat the nokedli?
Yes, you can reheat the nokedli. You can either microwave them briefly, or sauté them in a pan with a little oil until heated through.
What can I serve nokedli with?
Nokedli is commonly served as a side dish with dishes like goulash or paprikash. It can also be served with stews, roasted meats, or used as a base for creamy sauces or cheese dishes.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large mixing bowl - A large bowl to mix the dough ingredients together.
Whisk - Used to beat the eggs and incorporate air into the mixture.
Spaetzle maker or large holed cheese grater - Used to shape and drop the dough into boiling water.
Slotted spoon - A spoon with slots or holes to remove the cooked nokedli from the boiling water.
Colander - Used to drain and rinse the cooked nokedli.
Large skillet - A wide and deep pan to fry the nokedli until golden.

Origin stories

Nokedli, also known as Hungarian dumplings, are traditionally served as an accompaniment to hearty stews and meat dishes such as the world-renowned Chicken Paprikash. The humble origins of Nokedli can be traced back to the homes of hardworking Hungarian peasants who needed to make the most out of basic pantry ingredients. The simplicity of this dish speaks volumes about Hungarian cuisine, which prides itself on transforming simple ingredients into delectable meals. Interestingly, making Nokedli is considered a rite of passage in many Hungarian households. The process of pushing the dough through the Nokedli maker into boiling water is a skill passed down from generation to generation, preserving the culinary heritage of this proud nation.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.