Hungarian Egg Noodle Dumplings – Nokedli (Spaetzle)

Hungarian Egg Noodle Dumplings – Nokedli (Spaetzle) 🇭🇺🥚

Hungarian egg noodle dumplings, known as Nokedli, are soft, bite-sized dumplings similar to German spaetzle. They are one of the most important side dishes in Hungarian cuisine, especially served with rich stews and paprika-based dishes.

These little dumplings are simple, quick, and incredibly comforting—they soak up sauces perfectly and make any meal more satisfying.


🇭🇺 Why Nokedli Is So Popular

Hungarians love Nokedli because:

  • Soft, fluffy texture
  • Perfect for soaking up sauces
  • Very quick to prepare
  • Uses simple pantry ingredients
  • Essential side dish for many Hungarian meals

It is often served with traditional dishes like chicken paprikash and goulash.


🧾 Ingredients

  • 250 g all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 100–120 ml water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: a little oil (for smoother texture)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Preparation


1. Make the batter

In a bowl mix:

  • flour
  • eggs
  • salt
  • water

Stir until you get a thick, sticky batter.

It should be softer than dough but thicker than pancake batter.

Let it rest for 5–10 minutes.


2. Boil water

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.


3. Shape the dumplings

Using a spoon or nokedli grater, drop small pieces of batter into boiling water.

Work quickly in batches.


4. Cook

When dumplings float to the surface, they are ready.

This usually takes 2–3 minutes.


5. Drain

Remove with a slotted spoon and drain well.

Optionally rinse lightly with warm water.


🍽️ How to Serve

Serve Nokedli with:

  • Chicken paprikash
  • Goulash soup
  • Stews and sauces
  • Fried onions or butter

They are best when freshly made and warm.


🔥 Tips for Perfect Nokedli

  • Batter should be thick and sticky
  • Don’t overcook or they become too soft
  • Work in small batches
  • Add a little oil to prevent sticking
  • Serve immediately for best texture

🇭🇺 A Staple of Hungarian Cooking

Nokedli is a key part of Hungarian home cooking. It is the perfect companion to many rich dishes and is found in almost every traditional Hungarian meal.

It represents:

  • Simple homemade cooking
  • Comfort food culture
  • Traditional family recipes
  • Practical, filling side dishes

❤️ Final Thoughts

Hungarian nokedli are soft, simple, and incredibly versatile. They turn any sauce-based dish into a comforting and filling meal.

A basic recipe, but an essential part of Hungarian cuisine.

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