### Basic Spaetzle Dough Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Spaetzle is a traditional German egg noodle that's easy to make and pairs perfectly with various sauces. Follow these detailed steps to create your own spaetzle dough at home, ensuring a delicious and authentic experience.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 cups (400g) all-purpose flour
- Salt to taste
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water
**Note:** Make sure the water is not too hot as it can cook the eggs, nor too cold or they may not mix properly.
#### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Dry Ingredients:**
- In a large mixing bowl, sift in 2 cups of all-purpose flour.
- Add a generous pinch of salt to help enhance the flavor and texture of your dough.
2. **Mixing the Wet Ingredients:**
- Crack three large eggs into the dry ingredients.
- Slowly pour in 1 cup of warm water while mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough comes together.
3. **Kneading the Dough:**
- Once you have a sticky dough, turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, adding more flour if necessary to prevent sticking.
- The dough should be smooth but slightly elastic; too soft will result in spaetzle that's mushy.
4. **Cutting the Spaetzle:**
- Roll the dough into a thick rope or sausage shape using your hands.
- Cut it into 1-inch pieces, but ensure they are not too thick to avoid tough bites.
5. **Cooking the Spaetzle:**
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium heat.
- Carefully add the cut spaetzle to the boiling water and cook for about 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface.
- Drain well in a colander.
6. **Seasoning and Served:**
- While hot, serve your spaetzle with a choice of sauces such as creamy garlic butter, tomato sauce, or your favorite gravy.
#### Tips for Perfect Spaetzle:
- **Warm Water:** Using warm water helps the dough come together more easily without overcooking the eggs.
- **Consistency:** The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. Too dry and it will crack when cut; too wet and they won't hold shape during cooking.
- **Serving Suggestions:** Pair with a hearty, rich sauce like Gruyere cheese or serve as a side dish.
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By following these steps, you can create a delicious batch of spaetzle that's perfect for your next meal. Enjoy experimenting with different sauces and pairings!