Bayerische Brezenknödel

About Bayerische Brezenknödel

Bayerische Brezenknödel, or Bavarian pretzel dumplings, are a traditional dish from Bavaria, Germany. This savory dish is a perfect way to use up stale pretzels and is often served as a side dish with rich, flavorful meat dishes or enjoyed on its own. The origins of Brezenknödel trace back to the resourceful Bavarian culinary tradition of transforming leftover food into hearty, satisfying meals.

Ingredients

• Stale pretzels - 300g
• Milk - 250ml
• Eggs - 2
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - to taste
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Onion - 1, finely chopped
• Butter - 2 tablespoons
• Nutmeg - a pinch, freshly grated

Preparation

Preparing the Pretzels

Start by cutting the stale pretzels into small pieces, approximately 1-2 cm in size. This helps them absorb milk evenly, ensuring a smooth texture for the Brzenknödel.

Sautéing the Onions

In a pan, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and slightly golden, which should take around 5 minutes.

Mixing the Ingredients

Place the pretzel pieces into a large mixing bowl. Pour the milk over the pretzels and let it soak for about 15 minutes. This soaking stage is crucial for achieving the right consistency. Add the sautéed onions, eggs, salt, pepper, chopped parsley, and a pinch of nutmeg into the bowl. Mix thoroughly using your hands to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

Shaping and Cooking the Brezenknödel

Shaping

Using your hands, shape the mixture into 6-8 round dumplings, making sure they are compact and hold together. If the mixture is too wet, add breadcrumbs as needed. If too dry, add a bit more milk.

Cooking

Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle simmer. Carefully add the dumplings, ensuring they do not stick to the bottom. Simmer for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until they rise to the surface and are heated through. Timing your cooking is vital for the perfect texture, so consider using a cooking timer during this step.

Serving Suggestions

Bayerische Brezenknödel can be served as a side dish with traditional Bavarian meals such as roast pork or sauerbraten, complemented by a rich gravy. They can also be enjoyed on their own with a simple drizzle of melted butter and sprinkled with additional chopped parsley.

Enjoying Bayerische Brezenknödel

To truly enjoy this dish, pair it with a cold Bavarian beer or a glass of hearty red wine. For a complete Bavarian meal experience, add a side of pickled red cabbage or a fresh green salad. Gather friends and family for a cozy dining experience that reflects the true spirit of Bavarian hospitality.