Harzer Käse Knuddel

Introduction to Harzer Käse Knuddel

Harzer Käse Knuddel is a delightful German cheese dumpling dish that originates from the Harz mountain region. This dish is cherished for its rustic appeal and unique combination of flavors. Harzer cheese, the central ingredient, is a low-fat sour milk cheese known for its distinctive taste and aroma. The tradition of making Harzer Käse Knuddel can be traced back several centuries, rooted in the need for hearty and nourishing meals that were easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• Harzer Käse - 250g, diced
• Stale Bread - 200g, cubed
• Milk - 250ml
• Egg - 1, beaten
• Onion - 1, finely chopped
• Butter - 2 tablespoons
• Parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Nutmeg - A pinch
• Salt - To taste
• Black Pepper - To taste
• Breadcrumbs - For coating

Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients. Having everything at hand makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Dice the Harzer Käse and cube the stale bread into small pieces. This helps in creating a uniform texture in the dumplings.

Preparing the Dumpling Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk and the cubes of stale bread. Allow this to soak for about 10 minutes until the bread absorbs the milk and softens.
2. In a pan, melt the butter and sauté the onion until translucent. This should take about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sautéed onion, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper to the soaked bread mixture. Mix well.
4. Incorporate the diced Harzer Käse and the beaten egg into the mixture. Stir until evenly distributed.
5. Fold in the chopped parsley.

Ensure the mixture holds together by taking a small amount and shaping it into a ball. If it's too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.

Cooking Process

Shaping the Knuddel

1. With your hands, shape the mixture into dumplings approximately the size of a small fist. Each should be compact so they hold together during cooking.
2. Roll each dumpling in breadcrumbs for a light coating.

Cooking the Dumplings

1. Prepare a large pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. This is crucial for cooking the dumplings evenly.
2. Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water. Once they've floated to the surface, allow them to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
3. Use a slotted spoon to remove the dumplings and place them on a warm plate.

Enjoying Harzer Käse Knuddel

Harzer Käse Knuddel is best enjoyed fresh out of the pot. These dumplings are versatile and can be served as a main dish or an appetizer. Pair them with a crisp salad or a side of sautéed vegetables for a balanced meal. A chilled glass of German white wine, such as a Riesling, complements the flavor profile perfectly.

For an enhanced experience, consider serving with a delicate mustard sauce or a dollop of fresh sour cream on the side. This adds a delightful tanginess that pairs wonderfully with the hearty and cheesy dumplings.