Homemade spätzle and jägerschnitzel

Introduction

Spätzle and Jägerschnitzel are staples of German comfort food. Spätzle, soft egg noodles, pairs perfectly with Jägerschnitzel, a breaded pork cutlet topped with a rich mushroom gravy. This hearty combination is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Follow this step-by-step guide to make both dishes from scratch.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Intensity Level: Medium – Involves frying and making dough.

Ingredients

For the Spätzle:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sautéing)

For the Jägerschnitzel:

• 4 boneless pork chops (about 1/2 inch thick)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs
• 4 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Mushroom Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups (150g) fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240ml) beef or chicken stock
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Spätzle

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and nutmeg (if using).
2. Add the eggs and milk, and stir until a smooth, sticky dough forms. Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
4. Using a spätzle maker, colander, or slotted spoon, press small portions of the dough into the boiling water.
5. Cook the spätzle until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
6. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cooked spätzle and sauté until lightly golden. Keep warm.

Step 2: Prepare the Jägerschnitzel

1. Place the pork chops between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about 1/4 inch thickness.
2. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
4. Dredge each pork chop in the flour, dip in the eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels and keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Mushroom Gravy

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and are golden brown, about 8 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually whisk in the stock, followed by the cream and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Serve

1. Place a portion of spätzle on each plate and top with a pork chop.
2. Spoon the mushroom gravy over the pork and spätzle.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side of braised red cabbage or a fresh green salad.
• Enjoy with a cold German beer or a glass of white wine.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (1 pork chop with spätzle and gravy):

• Calories: 580
• Total Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 185mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 35g

Tips and Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary to the mushroom gravy.
• Substitute chicken or veal for pork if preferred.
• Leftover spätzle can be stored in the fridge and reheated in a skillet with butter.
• Make the spätzle dough ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Enjoy the classic combination of spätzle and jägerschnitzel, a dish that brings the hearty flavors of Germany right to your table!