Welcome to our delicious Knoephla Soup recipe! This comforting dish hails from the Midwest and is known for its hearty flavors and creamy texture. Knoephla Soup is a true comfort food that warms the soul on chilly days. With its pillowy dumplings, tender vegetables, and savory broth, it’s no wonder this recipe has stood the test of time.
Difficulty: Easy
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Serving: 4
Yield: Approximately 8 cups
Calories: 350 per serving
Ingredients:
- 3 cups (720 ml) chicken broth
- 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (150 g) diced potatoes
- 1 cup (150 g) diced carrots
- 1 cup (150 g) diced celery
- 1 cup (150 g) diced onion
- 8 ounces (225 g) smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 tablespoons (30 g) butter
- 2 teaspoons (10 g) salt
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) dried thyme
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
Step 2: Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pot and cook until lightly browned. This will infuse the soup with smoky flavors.
Step 3: Add the diced potatoes, carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Step 5: Meanwhile, prepare the knoephla dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Gradually add the heavy cream, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Step 6: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it lightly. Roll the dough into small balls, approximately 1/2 inch in diameter.
Step 7: Carefully drop the knoephla dumplings into the simmering soup. Cook for an additional 10 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through and float to the surface.
Step 8: Remove the pot from the heat and let the soup cool slightly. Ladle it into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Tips and Tricks:
- For a vegetarian version, you can substitute vegetable broth and omit the smoked sausage. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or peas for added flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes with a fork or use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup before adding the dumplings.
- Leftover knoephla soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
Final Thoughts:
Knoephla Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to any table. Its creamy texture, flavorful broth, and delicate dumplings make it a true Midwest favorite. Whether you’re seeking a cozy family meal or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe will surely satisfy and delight. So grab a ladle, fill your bowl, and savor the comforting goodness of Knoephla Soup!
FAQ
1: Can I freeze Knoephla Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Knoephla Soup. However, keep in mind that the dumplings may lose some of their texture upon thawing and reheating. It’s best to freeze the soup without the dumplings and add fresh dumplings when you’re ready to serve.
Q2: Can I use a different type of sausage in Knoephla Soup?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for smoked sausage, you can experiment with different varieties such as kielbasa or bratwurst to add your own twist to Knoephla Soup.
Q3: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in Knoephla Soup?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour as a substitute. Keep in mind that the dumplings may be slightly denser and have a heavier texture compared to those made with all-purpose flour.
Q4: Can I make Knoephla Soup ahead of time?
Certainly! Knoephla Soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Q5: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried thyme in Knoephla Soup?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs can bring a vibrant flavor to Knoephla Soup. Simply replace the dried thyme with an equal amount of fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped.
Q6: Can I add other vegetables to Knoephla Soup?
Yes! Feel free to customize your Knoephla Soup by adding vegetables like corn, peas, or green beans. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure all the vegetables are cooked to your liking.
Q7: Is Knoephla Soup gluten-free?
No, the traditional Knoephla Soup recipe contains all-purpose flour, which is not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends as a substitute for the dumplings if you have dietary restrictions.
Q8: Can I use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream in Knoephla Soup?
While heavy cream provides richness to Knoephla Soup, you can use low-fat milk as a lighter alternative. Keep in mind that the soup may have a slightly less creamy consistency.
Q9: Can I make a larger batch of Knoephla Soup?
Certainly! Simply double or triple the ingredients to make a larger batch of Knoephla Soup. Just ensure that you have a pot large enough to accommodate the increased quantity.
Q10: Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of Knoephla Soup?
Yes, you can substitute vegetable broth to make a vegetarian-friendly version of Knoephla Soup. It will still impart delicious flavors to the dish.
Q11: Can I use a store-bought dumpling mix instead of making the dumplings from scratch for Knoephla Soup?
If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought dumpling mix as a convenient alternative for Knoephla Soup. Just follow the instructions on the package and add the dumplings to the simmering soup.
Q12: Can I add cheese to Knoephla Soup?
While it’s not traditional, you can certainly add grated cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, to Knoephla Soup for an extra layer of flavor and richness. Stir it in just before serving.
Q13: Can I make Knoephla Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this Knoephla Soup recipe for a slow cooker. Sauté the onions and sausage in a pan first, then transfer them along with the remaining ingredients (except the dumplings) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the prepared dumplings during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Q14: Can I use frozen dumplings instead of making them from scratch for Knoephla Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen dumplings as a time-saving option for Knoephla Soup. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the instructions on the package.
Q15: Can I add some spice to Knoephla Soup?
Absolutely! If you enjoy a little heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to Knoephla Soup for a spicy kick. Adjust the amount according to your preference.
Enjoy preparing and savoring this delightful Knoephla Soup recipe. May it bring you warmth and comfort with every spoonful!
