Traditional German Knoephla Soup Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix together the flour and teaspoon of salt. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture.
  2. In another bowl, whisk together the water, eggs, and milk. Pour this mixture into the well of the flour. Mix until you have a sticky dough. Let it rest for about 10 minutes.
  3. While the dough is resting, heat the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they are soft and fragrant.
  4. Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring it to a boil.
  5. Once the broth is boiling, add the diced potatoes. Reduce the heat to a simmer, allowing the potatoes to cook until they are tender.
  6. While the potatoes are cooking, return to your dough. On a floured surface, roll the dough into long snakes, about 1/2 inch thick. Cut these into small pieces, about 1/2 inch long.
  7. Add the pieces of dough (knoephla) to the pot, stirring so they don't stick together. Allow them to cook in the broth for about 10 minutes, or until they float to the top and are cooked through.
  8. Stir in the heavy cream and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. Serve hot.

Tools for making

  • Mixing bowl - Used for mixing the flour and salt.
  • Whisk - Used for whisking together the water, eggs, and milk.
  • Large pot - Used for cooking the soup.
  • Rolling pin - Used for rolling out the dough.
  • Knife - Used for cutting the dough into small pieces.
  • Cutting board - Used as a surface for cutting the dough.

Recipe variations

  • Use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier or gluten-free version.
  • Add cooked chicken or beef to make it a meaty version.
  • Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth to make it vegetarian.
  • Add vegetables such as carrots, peas, or corn for added flavor and texture.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or paprika to enhance the flavor profile.
  • Serve the knoephla soup with a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle grated cheese on top for a creamy and indulgent twist.
  • Make a crispy crust by baking or frying the knoephla dough before adding it to the soup.
  • Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky and savory variation.
  • Make it spicy by adding chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapenos.
  • Incorporate other grains like barley, quinoa, or wild rice for added texture and nutrients.

Recipe overview

Knoephla is a delicious, hearty soup originally from Germany and popular in North Dakota. This creamy soup is filled with homemade dumplings, tender potatoes, and a delightful blend of flavors that create a comforting bowl of soup perfect for a chilly day. In this recipe, we'll guide you step-by-step in crafting your own homemade Knoephla soup. It involves creating a simple dough for the dumplings, simmering them in a rich broth with potatoes, and finishing with a generous pour of heavy cream for added richness. With a balance of soft dumplings, flavorful broth, and creamy texture, this Knoephla soup recipe is a comforting homemade dish that's sure to impress.

Common questions

  1. How long does it take to make Knoephla? The total time to make Knoephla is approximately 45 minutes.
  2. Can I use a different type of flour? All-purpose flour works best for this recipe, but you can try using other flours if desired, keeping in mind that it may alter the texture and taste of the final dish.
  3. 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 before using.
  4. Can I freeze Knoephla soup? Yes, you can freeze Knoephla soup. However, keep in mind that the texture of the knoephla dumplings may change slightly upon reheating.
  5. Can I substitute the heavy cream? If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, although it will result in a slightly less creamy soup.
  6. Can I add vegetables or meat to the soup? Absolutely! Knoephla soup can be customized to your liking. You can add vegetables like carrots, celery, or peas, or even include cooked chicken or ham for additional flavor and texture.
  7. What should I serve with Knoephla? Knoephla soup is often enjoyed as a main dish on its own. However, you can serve it with a side of crusty bread, crackers, or a fresh green salad if desired.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - Use a cutting board to chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  • Knife - A sharp knife is essential for chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
  • Large pot - Use a large pot to cook the soup and accommodate all the ingredients.
  • Whisk - Use a whisk to mix together the water, eggs, and milk for the dough.
  • Mixing bowls - Use mixing bowls to combine the flour and salt, and to whisk together the liquid ingredients for the dough.
  • Rolling pin - Use a rolling pin to roll out the dough and create the knoephla.
  • Spatula - A spatula will come in handy for stirring and combining the ingredients in the pot.
  • Soup ladle - Use a soup ladle to serve the knoephla soup into bowls.

Origin stories

Knoephla, a type of dumpling, is a staple comfort food in the German-Russian communities of the Dakotas in the United States. This hearty soup recipe was brought over by immigrants from Germany who settled in Russia before finally immigrating to the United States. Knoephla's name is derived from the German verb "knoepfle" which means "to cut or chop," a nod to how the dough is cut into pieces before being added to the soup. This dish is a testament to the resourcefulness of these communities, making the most out of basic pantry ingredients to create a delicious and filling meal that is still enjoyed today.

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.