Creamy Knoephla Soup

Introduction

Creamy Knoephla Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that hails from the German-Russian culinary traditions. This rich and satisfying soup features soft, pillowy dumplings known as “knoephla,” swimming in a creamy, flavorful broth filled with vegetables. It’s a simple yet deeply satisfying meal that’s perfect for warming you up on a chilly day. Knoephla Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a taste of heritage and a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients.

This soup has a special place in my heart. I first tasted it at a community gathering, and it was an instant favorite. The aroma of simmering vegetables and the creamy texture of the soup were incredibly inviting. Making Knoephla Soup is a labor of love, but the end result is well worth the effort. The homemade dumplings add a unique touch that elevates this soup above the ordinary.

Creamy Knoephla Soup is perfect for those days when you crave something comforting and nourishing. It’s great on its own, but a side of crusty bread or a simple salad complements it beautifully. If you’re looking for a soup that will warm you from the inside out and leave you feeling satisfied, this is the one to make!

Perfect for:

• Cozy family dinners
• Cold weather meals
• Potlucks and gatherings
• Hearty comfort food cravings
• Making ahead for easy meals

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Knoephla Soup

Here’s why Creamy Knoephla Soup will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Comforting and Hearty: The creamy broth and soft dumplings create a deeply satisfying and warming meal.
• Homemade Goodness: Making the knoephla from scratch adds a personal touch and enhances the flavor of the soup.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Both kids and adults will love the comforting flavors and creamy texture of this soup.
• Makes a Big Batch: Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 2 hours
• Preparation Time: 45 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories (depending on ingredients)
• Key Nutrients: Varies depending on ingredients, but typically includes carbohydrates, protein, and vitamins from vegetables

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Creamy Knoephla Soup:

• For the Knoephla (Dumplings):
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup water (or more, as needed)
• For the Soup:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
  • 2 cups diced potatoes (such as Yukon Gold or Russet)
  • 1 cup diced celery root (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredient Highlights

• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the knoephla dumplings, providing a soft and slightly chewy texture.
• Vegetable or Chicken Broth: Creates the flavorful base of the soup, adding depth and richness.
• Potatoes: Add heartiness and substance to the soup, making it a filling meal.
• Carrots and Celery: Provide essential vitamins and a subtle sweetness and earthiness to the broth.
• Half-and-Half or Heavy Cream: Adds a creamy texture and richness to the soup, making it extra comforting.
• Fresh Parsley: Brightens the flavor of the soup and adds a pop of color as a garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Creamy Knoephla Soup:

Prepare the Knoephla (Dumplings):

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
3. Mix the Dough: Stir the mixture until a shaggy dough forms. Add water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together but is still slightly sticky.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
5. Rest the Dough: Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the knoephla more tender.
6. Form the Knoephla: There are a few ways to form the knoephla:
   • Using a Knoephla Board: Traditionally, knoephla is made using a special board. Place a small amount of dough on the board and use a scraper or knife to cut small pieces of dough into the simmering soup.
   • Using a Knife: If you don’t have a knoephla board, you can use a knife. Place a portion of the dough on a cutting board. Using a knife, cut small, thin pieces of dough and drop them directly into the simmering soup.
   • Using a Spaetzle Maker: A spaetzle maker can also be used to create uniform dumplings. Follow the instructions for your specific spaetzle maker.

Prepare the Soup:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Add Broth and Potatoes: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and add the diced potatoes and celery root (if using). Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Add the Knoephla: Once the potatoes are tender, it’s time to add the knoephla. Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer. Drop the knoephla into the soup, a few at a time. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot.
5. Cook the Knoephla: Cook the knoephla for about 8-10 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
6. Add Finishing Touches: Stir in the frozen peas and half-and-half or heavy cream. Heat through gently, but do not boil.
7. Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

How to Serve Creamy Knoephla Soup

Creamy Knoephla Soup can be served in various ways to enhance its presentation and flavor:

• In Bowls: Serve in individual bowls, garnished with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt.
• With Crusty Bread: Pair with warm, crusty bread or rolls for dipping into the creamy broth.
• With a Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad or a cucumber salad for a balanced meal.
• As a Starter: Serve as a hearty starter before a main course.
• Family Style: Serve directly from the pot at the table for a cozy, family-style meal.

Additional Tips for Creamy Knoephla Soup

Follow these tips for the best Creamy Knoephla Soup:

• Rest the Dough: Allowing the knoephla dough to rest is crucial for achieving tender dumplings. Don’t skip this step!
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: When adding the knoephla to the soup, add them in batches to prevent them from sticking together.
• Adjust the Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth or milk to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken.
• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh vegetables will add the best flavor to your soup. However, you can use frozen vegetables if necessary.
• Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup frequently during cooking and adjust the seasonings as needed.
• Make Ahead: Knoephla soup can be made ahead of time. The flavor will actually improve as it sits. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

Recipe Variations for Creamy Knoephla Soup

Here are 10 variations to customize your Creamy Knoephla Soup:

1. Vegetarian Knoephla Soup: Use vegetable broth and add more vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
2. Spicy Knoephla Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a spicy kick.
3. Cheese Knoephla Soup: Add shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese to the soup for a cheesy flavor.
4. Herb Knoephla Soup: Add fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or dill to the soup for an herbal twist.
5. Creamy Tomato Knoephla Soup: Add a can of diced tomatoes to the soup for a tangy flavor.
6. Garlic Knoephla Soup: Add extra minced garlic to the soup for a bold garlic flavor.
7. Potato and Leek Knoephla Soup: Substitute leeks for onions for a delicate, oniony flavor.
8. Mushroom Knoephla Soup: Add sautéed mushrooms to the soup for an earthy flavor.
9. Lemon Knoephla Soup: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the soup for a bright, citrusy flavor.
10. Hearty Vegetable Knoephla Soup: Add a mix of root vegetables like parsnips and turnips for a more robust flavor.

Freezing and Storage for Creamy Knoephla Soup

• Freezing: Creamy Knoephla Soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Storage: Store leftover Creamy Knoephla Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. You may need to add a little broth or milk to thin the soup out, as the knoephla will absorb some of the liquid.

Special Equipment for Creamy Knoephla Soup

Here are some items that make preparing Creamy Knoephla Soup easier:

1. Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Essential for cooking the soup and accommodating all the ingredients.
2. Mixing Bowls: Needed for preparing the knoephla dough.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures precise measurements for the ingredients.
4. Cutting Board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables.
5. Chef’s Knife: Used for chopping vegetables and herbs.
6. Knoephla Board (Optional): A traditional tool for making knoephla, but not essential.
7. Knife or Scraper: Used to cut the knoephla into the soup.
8. Spaetzle Maker (Optional): An alternative to a knoephla board for making uniform dumplings.
9. Wooden Spoon: Gentle for stirring and mixing ingredients without scratching your pot.
10. Ladle: For serving the soup into bowls.

FAQ Section for Creamy Knoephla Soup

1. Can I use pre-made dumplings for this recipe?
   While homemade knoephla are the most authentic and delicious, you can use store-bought dumplings if you’re short on time. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
   Yes, you can make gluten-free knoephla by using a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to add a binder like xanthan gum to help hold the dough together.
3. What kind of potatoes should I use?
   Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work well in this soup. Yukon Gold potatoes have a creamy texture, while Russet potatoes are more starchy.
4. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as green beans, corn, or spinach to the soup.
5. How do I prevent the knoephla from sticking together?
   Add the knoephla to the soup in batches and stir gently to prevent them from sticking together.
6. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
   Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Sauté the vegetables in a skillet first, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the broth, potatoes, and celery root. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the knoephla during the last hour of cooking time.
7. How do I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
   If the soup is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a few more minutes, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also add a slurry of cornstarch and water (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) to the soup.

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Conclusion for Creamy Knoephla Soup

Creamy Knoephla Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With its soft, pillowy dumplings and creamy, flavorful broth, it’s a perfect way to enjoy a taste of homemade goodness.

What makes this recipe truly special is its ability to bring people together. Sharing a bowl of Creamy Knoephla Soup is a way to create memories and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Whether you’re serving it to your family on a cold winter evening or bringing it to a potluck with friends, this soup is sure to be a hit.

I encourage you to try this delightful recipe and make it your own! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to create a Knoephla Soup that’s perfect for your taste. And remember, the most important ingredient is love. Enjoy every comforting bite!