Cook's Illustrated

Buttered Spaetzle

Published May 1, 1993.

Spaetzle are thin, pasta-like dumplings common to Alsace, southern Germany, and Switzerland.

The Problem

A reader found an unusual grater tucked away in a kitchen cupboard. After we identified it as a spaetzle machine, we needed a recipe to test it out.

The Goal

We wanted a recipe to test the machine, but we also wanted a recipe that wouldn't require a special tool.

The Solution

Our classic spaetzle recipe can be used with a special spaetzle machine but if you don't have one, the batter can be passed through a ricer or metal colander.

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