As the chilly breeze swept through my kitchen, I craved something warm and comforting to wrap me in a cozy hug. That’s when I stumbled upon my treasured recipe for Knoephla, the North Dakota Cream-and-Dumpling Soup that ignites cherished memories of family gatherings. The delicate dumplings, soft and pillowy, float in a creamy broth infused with savory vegetables and tender potatoes.
What I adore about this soup is its effortless ability to transform a simple weeknight dinner into a heartwarming celebration. The aromas of sautéed onions and celery mingle with the rich scent of homemade chicken stock, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Whether you’re looking to switch up your dinner routine or impress guests with a taste of the Midwest, this recipe hits the mark. It’s also remarkably versatile—feel free to throw in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand!
Join me in whipping up this delightful bowl of nostalgia, where each spoonful is not just a meal but a story waiting to be shared. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get started!
Why is Knoephla the Ultimate Comfort Food?
Warmth radiates from every bowl of this delectable soup, making it a perfect go-to for chilly nights.
Rich and Creamy broth creates a delightful base that elevates the flavor of every ingredient.
Pillowy Dumplings float gracefully in the soup, offering a comforting texture that your family will love.
Versatile by nature, you can easily customize this recipe with seasonal veggies or leftover meats for a fresh twist.
Crowd-Pleaser status ensures it’s a hit at gatherings, wrapping everyone in a nostalgic embrace of home-cooked goodness.
Experience the joy of cooking with Knoephla, where every ladle brings warmth and heart to your dining table!
Knoephla Soup Ingredients
For the Dumplings
- All-purpose flour – 2 cups for a sturdy and soft dumpling texture.
- Diamond Crystal salt – 1 teaspoon enhances flavors throughout the dough.
- Baking powder – 1 teaspoon gives the dumplings a light, fluffy lift.
- Large eggs – 2 add richness and bind the ingredients together.
- Whole milk – 6 tablespoons creates a tender dough for easy rolling.
- Unsalted butter – 4 tablespoons adds a velvety richness to your dumplings.
For the Soup Base
- Medium yellow onion – 1, diced small for a sweet, aromatic foundation.
- Celery – 4 stalks, diced small, offer a subtle crunch and freshness.
- Diamond Crystal kosher salt – 1 tablespoon for seasoning and depth of flavor.
- Freshly ground white pepper – 1 teaspoon brings a gentle spice perfect for comfort food.
- All-purpose flour – 1/4 cup thickens the soup for a creamy texture.
- Chicken stock or broth – 8 cups, use homemade for the best flavor, or low-sodium store-bought for convenience.
- Waxy potatoes – 1 1/2 pounds, cut into 1/2-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and creaminess.
- Heavy cream – 1 cup adds a luxurious finish to the dish, making it irresistibly rich.
Let’s get cooking! With these ingredients, we’re well on our way to creating a heartwarming bowl of Knoephla that’s sure to please your loved ones.
How to Make Knoephla
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Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, Diamond Crystal salt, and baking powder until well mixed and fluffy. This dry mixture is the foundation of your delightful dumplings.
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Form the Dough: Add the eggs and whole milk to the flour mixture. Stir until a smooth dough forms. You’ll want a slightly tacky texture, perfect for rolling into dumplings!
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Shape the Dumplings: Lightly flour your countertop. Roll the dough into small, bite-sized dumpling shapes. Aim for uniformity; this helps them cook evenly in the soup.
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Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
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Season: Sprinkle in the Diamond Crystal kosher salt, freshly ground white pepper, and 1/4 cup of flour. Stir well until the mixture coats the veggies, creating a beautiful aroma.
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Add Broth: Gradually pour in the chicken stock or broth. Stir constantly for a few minutes until everything is well combined and the mixture thickens slightly.
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Simmer with Potatoes: Once the soup starts to simmer, add in the cubed waxy potatoes. Let them cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes—this is where all those comforting flavors meld together.
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Cook the Dumplings: Carefully drop your dumplings into the simmering soup. Cook until they float to the top, indicating they are done. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
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Finish the Soup: Stir in the heavy cream and adjust your seasonings as needed. The soup should be rich, creamy, and utterly inviting!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Knoephla soup preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roll and shape the dumplings up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to prevent drying out. Additionally, you can sauté the onions and celery ahead of time, allowing their flavors to develop before they go into the pot—this can be done up to 3 days ahead. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, just combine the sautéed veggies with broth, add the prepped potatoes, and then drop in the dumplings to cook until they float. With these simple steps, you’ll be able to serve a heartwarming Knoephla soup with minimal effort, perfectly suited for those busy weeknights!
Knoephla Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delicious alternatives!
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Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to enjoy this dish free from gluten.
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Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free milk and replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a nut-based cream for a rich flavor.
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Veggie-Loaded: Toss in chopped carrots, peas, or leafy greens for a nutrient boost and vibrant color.
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Protein-Packed: Add shredded cooked chicken or diced tofu to increase heartiness and protein content in your soup.
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Spicy Kick: Stir in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a delightful warmth that awakens the senses.
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Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or thyme to the dumpling dough for added flavor that beautifully complements the soup.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate some smoked paprika into the broth to introduce an unexpected depth and warmth.
Every variation adds its own twist, inviting a new story to unfold in each bowl!
Expert Tips for Knoephla
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Perfect Dumpling Dough: Ensure your dough stays slightly tacky when mixing. Too dry dumplings may turn tough during cooking, while a properly hydrated dough yields pillowy Knoephla.
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Consistent Sizes: Roll dumplings into uniform sizes for even cooking. This helps all the dumplings float to the top at the same time, making for a perfect presentation.
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Avoid Overcrowding: When adding dumplings to the soup, do so in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pot can cause them to stick together, affecting texture.
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Taste as You Go: Always adjust seasoning at the end. The richness of the cream and stock will develop, so check for balance—one last sprinkle of salt can make all the difference!
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Embrace Customization: Feel free to toss in seasonal vegetables or leftover meats. Knoephla is versatile, and this is a great way to use up what’s available while keeping the soup flavorful.
How to Store and Freeze Knoephla
Fridge: Store leftover Knoephla in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled soup (without cream) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, add heavy cream while reheating for a creamy texture. Stir gently until heated through, adjusting the seasoning as necessary.
What to Serve with Knoephla?
As the bowl of this creamy delight warms your soul, consider these perfect accompaniments to elevate your dining experience.
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Crispy Artisan Bread: A crusty loaf provides great texture for dipping, soaking up the rich broth and adding a delightful crunchy contrast.
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Fresh Garden Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette balance the hearty soup, offering a refreshing crunch and a burst of vibrant colors.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned with herbs and olive oil, roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts add an earthy flavor, enhancing the homemade comfort of Knoephla.
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Savory Sausage Links: Some grilled or sautéed sausage brings a meaty element to the meal, making it hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest appetites.
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Homemade Cornbread: Sweet and buttery cornbread complements the creamy soup perfectly, creating a warm, homey vibe that feels like a big hug.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay provides a refreshing sip between bites, harmonizing with the creamy soup and elevating your dining experience.
Enjoy transforming a simple meal into a heartfelt gathering with these delightful pairings!
Knoephla: Cozy North Dakota Cream-and-Dumpling Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right potatoes for Knoephla?
For the best results, choose waxy potatoes such as red or yellow potatoes. They hold their shape well after cooking, providing a tender yet firm texture. Avoid starchy varieties like Russets, as they may break down in the soup.
What’s the best way to store leftover Knoephla?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you want to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water as needed to restore the creamy consistency.
Can I freeze Knoephla soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag without the cream. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently, adding heavy cream for that luscious finish!
What should I do if the dumplings don’t float?
If your dumplings don’t float, it might mean they need a little more cooking time. Ensure your soup is simmering gently—sometimes, a few extra minutes can help them rise. If they’re still not floating, check if the dough was too heavy; a lighter mixture may yield better results next time.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Sure! Knoephla contains gluten due to the flour, so for a gluten-free version, you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend. Using dairy alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk can work, too, though the flavor will differ slightly. Always be mindful of any allergens and modify accordingly.
What’s the ideal way to add cream to the soup?
To add cream perfectly, allow the soup to simmer and then slowly stir in the heavy cream at the end of cooking. This method ensures that the cream mixes smoothly without curdling, providing a delightful creaminess to your soup. Adjust the cream to your taste—more makes it even richer!
Knoephla: Cozy North Dakota Cream-and-Dumpling Soup Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, Diamond Crystal salt, and baking powder until well mixed and fluffy.
- Add the eggs and whole milk to the flour mixture. Stir until a smooth dough forms.
- Lightly flour your countertop. Roll the dough into small, bite-sized dumpling shapes.
- In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking until softened.
- Sprinkle in the Diamond Crystal kosher salt, freshly ground white pepper, and 1/4 cup of flour. Stir well.
- Gradually pour in the chicken stock or broth. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Once the soup starts to simmer, add in the cubed waxy potatoes. Let them cook until tender.
- Carefully drop your dumplings into the simmering soup. Cook until they float to the top.
- Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasonings as needed.