Spätzle ( Eastern Europe)

      Known by many names this side dish is a mix between a dumpling and a noodle.  Typically there is three ingredients; flour, salt and flour.  The sticky dough is then separated into penny sized drops which are then boiled until the Spätzle rises to the surface. 
    When I originally learned how to make a Spätzle it was from my grandmother who made them in the traditional way.  Now when I say the traditional way, I mean the method of using two spoons over a pot to separate the dough.  If you are doing this by yourself it can become rather maddening. But if you have a few good cooks around the pot it gives you a good time to catch up.   But do not fret, many different makers of culinary devices usually create Spätzle presses or graters which make quick work of the process.
     Spätzles go with so many dishes from chicken paprikash to vegetable soup, but what I really love is a batch of Spätzles with beer gravy.  The recipe goes great with pork or beef complementing the heartiness of the meal. 
     

Spätzles with Beer Gravy

2 cups flour

4 eggs, lightly beaten

1/3 cup milk

1 tablespoon minced garlic.

2 tablespoons butter

2 shallots minced

2 tablespoons flour

1 bottle dark beer (lager)

1/2 cup beef stock

Salt and Pepper to taste.

 

In a large bowl mix together the flour, eggs, milk and garlic.  Continue to mix until the dough is sticky.  

 

Bring a 2 quart saucepan of salted water to a boil.  Either use the traditional method which was listed above, or use a well greased spätzle maker.  Drop the spätzles into the boiling water making sure not to overcrowd the pan.  When the spätzles rise to the top of the pan then skim them off of the top of the water.  Place in a large bowl until ready to serve.

 

In another sauce pan melt the butter and use to saute with the shallots.  Place the flour into the pan and stir together to create a rue.  Cook the rue in the pan just until browned. Pour the beer and stock into the the pan stirring constantly to avoid any lumps in the gravy.  Bring to a boil and reduce the heat allowing to simmer for 5-10 minutes.  Add the salt and pepper at this time.  Serve immediately.


Serves 6