As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sautéed onions wafted through the air, immediately transporting me to cozy family gatherings in Germany. Today, I’m excited to share my take on a beloved tradition: Easy Vegan German Bread Dumplings, or Semmelknödel. This simple yet satisfying side dish is a stellar way to transform leftover bread into something comforting and scrumptious. Not only are these dumplings perfect for soaking up your favorite sauces, making them a fantastic companion for festive meals, but they’re also quick to prepare, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your loved ones’ company. Curious how these delightful dumplings can elevate your next dinner? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why are German Bread Dumplings a must-try? Incredible Comfort: These Vegan German Bread Dumplings offer a warm, cozy feel that makes every meal special. Versatile Side Dish: Perfect alongside creamy vegan sauces or hearty dishes like vegan meatloaf. Waste Not, Want Not: A fantastic way to use leftover bread, turning it into something delightful. Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing side in no time. Festive Flavor: Ideal for holidays or family gatherings, bringing a taste of tradition to your table. Healthy and Nourishing: Each dumpling is low in calories while packed with nourishing ingredients, ensuring you enjoy every bite without the guilt. Check out more about how these dumplings enhance your dining experience with serving suggestions. German Bread Dumplings Ingredients For the Dumpling Mixture • Bread Rolls – 10 from the previous day; provides structure and can be substituted with stale white bread if needed. • Soy Milk – 300 ml; acts as a binding agent and moisture source (unsweetened is preferred for this Vegan German Bread Dumplings). • Vegetable Oil – 2 tsp (e.g., canola, avocado); adds moisture and helps sauté the onions. • Onion – 1 diced; contributes flavor, and shallots can be used for a sweeter taste if desired. • Parsley – ⅔ cup chopped; adds freshness and color, or replace with other herbs like chives or thyme for variety. • Salt – 1 tsp; enhances flavor, adjust according to your taste. • Nutmeg – ½ tsp ground; adds warmth, but feel free to omit for a simpler flavor profile. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Vegan German Bread Dumplings Step 1: Prepare the Bread Begin by cutting your day-old bread rolls into small, bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. This forms the foundation of your Vegan German Bread Dumplings. Let them sit while you gather the other ingredients, allowing them to dry out slightly for better texture. Step 2: Soak the Bread In a small saucepan, gently heat the soy milk until it is lukewarm—this should take about 1-2 minutes on low heat. Pour the warm soy milk over the bread pieces, tossing them together briefly to ensure all the bread is evenly soaked. Set the mixture aside to absorb the flavors for about 10 minutes. Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics In a frying pan, heat 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent, stirring occasionally. Add in the chopped parsley and sauté for an additional minute, releasing the fragrant aroma that will elevate your Vegan German Bread Dumplings. Step 4: Combine Ingredients Transfer the sautéed onion and parsley to the bowl with the soaked bread. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg. Using your hands, gently knead the mixture until it all comes together, forming a cohesive but slightly sticky dumpling dough. This should take about 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is well mixed. Step 5: Shape the Dumplings With wet hands to prevent sticking, shape the mixture into 8 medium-sized dumplings or smaller ones if you prefer. Place the formed dumplings on a plate, ensuring they are not touching, and set them aside while you prepare to cook them. Step 6: Cook the Dumplings Bring a large pot of salted water to a rapid boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer—this step is crucial to keep the Vegan German Bread Dumplings intact. Carefully add the dumplings to the simmering water and cook for 15-20 minutes. They are done when they float to the surface and appear puffed and tender. Step 7: Serve Warm Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the dumplings from the pot and allow them to drain briefly. Serve your warm Vegan German Bread Dumplings immediately, paired with your favorite vegan sauces or dishes for a comforting meal that celebrates tradition and flavor. Expert Tips for Vegan German Bread Dumplings • Gentle Cooking: Ensure water simmers gently; boiling water can cause dumplings to break apart, ruining their texture. • Bread Quality: Use day-old bread for best results. Fresh bread may not hold the dumplings together as well, making them fall apart in the water. • Perfect Size: Aim for evenly sized dumplings to ensure consistent cooking. Smaller dumplings will cook faster, so keep an eye on them! • Herb Substitutions: Feel free to experiment with different herbs for flavor. Chives or thyme can add a unique twist to your Vegan German Bread Dumplings. • Pan-Frying Option: For added texture, pan-fry the dumplings after boiling until golden brown. This enhances the flavor and gives a delightful crunch. How to Store and Freeze German Bread Dumplings Fridge: Leftover Vegan German Bread Dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they are cooled completely before sealing. Freezer: To freeze, place the dumplings in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then cut into slices and pan-fry until crispy for that delightful texture you’ll love. Serving: These dumplings are best enjoyed warm, so be sure to follow the reheating instructions for a delicious side dish again! What to Serve with Easy Vegan German Bread Dumplings? Imagine creating a comforting feast that elevates your dining experience with vibrant flavors and textures. Creamy Mushroom Sauce: A luscious sauce that envelops the dumplings, enhancing their fluffy texture while adding a rich umami punch. Braised Red Cabbage: This sweet and tangy side brings a colorful contrast that perfectly complements the warm, soft dumplings. Savory Vegan Meatloaf: A hearty pairing that embraces the dumplings’ role as a comforting vehicle for soaking up every delicious drop of the sauce. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: The caramelized flavors of roasted veggies provide a delightful crunch, balancing the softness of the dumplings for a well-rounded meal. Vegan Gravy: A classic choice that pools under the dumplings, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor and nostalgia. Apple Sauce: This fruity side adds a surprising sweetness, creating a delightful contrast against the savory dishes. Fresh Salad: A crisp salad with tangy vinaigrette brings brightness and freshness, cutting through the richness of the dumplings and sauces. Kidney Beans or Chickpeas Salad: This protein-rich option not only adds texture but also elevates the meal into a complete nutritional powerhouse. Spiced Herbal Tea: A warm drink that adds a touch of coziness to your meal, helping to cleanse the palate while enhancing the dining experience. Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, this silky-smooth treat provides a satisfying and guilt-free finish to your comforting meal, leaving everyone savoring the moment. German Bread Dumplings Variations Get ready to personalize your dumplings with these exciting twists that will delight your taste buds! Herb Swap: Try using fresh chives or thyme for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs can elevate the dumpling’s taste and add beautiful color. Bready Boost: Substitute sourdough or multigrain bread for a tangy twist. Different bread types can introduce new textures and flavors to your dumplings. Mushroom Medley: Add sautéed mushrooms to the dumpling mixture for an earthy depth. This adds a delightful umami flavor that pairs wonderfully with savory sauces. Nutty Addition: Toss in a handful of roasted nuts like walnuts or chestnuts for added crunch. This textural boost makes each bite an adventure! Spicy Kick: Introduce a pinch of chili flakes to the mix for those who enjoy a little heat. A small amount can transform the entire dish with just the right amount of spice. Cheesy Delight: Use a vegan cheese substitute to enrich the flavor of your dumplings. This takes comfort food to another level, making each bite more indulgent. Sweet Variation: For dessert dumplings, consider adding raisins or cinnamon to the bread mixture. Serve with a warm fruit compote for a delightful finish. Looking for serving ideas? These dumplings pair beautifully with a creamy vegan mushroom sauce or a slice of vegan meatloaf, making your meal utterly satisfying! Make Ahead Options These Easy Vegan German Bread Dumplings (Semmelknödel) are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dumpling mixture up to 24 hours in advance by following Steps 1 through 4 and then refrigerate it in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh and allows the bread to absorb the soy milk properly for optimal texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply shape the dumplings and cook them as directed in Steps 5 and 6, ensuring they remain just as fluffy and delightful. Following these prep tips not only saves time, allowing you to enjoy hassle-free dinners, but also guarantees delicious results every time! Vegan German Bread Dumplings Recipe FAQs What kind of bread should I use for German Bread Dumplings? I recommend using day-old bread rolls, as they provide the perfect texture for dumplings. If you don’t have bread rolls, stale white bread works wonderfully as a substitute. Fresh bread might lead to softer dumplings that could break apart during cooking. How long can I store Vegan German Bread Dumplings in the fridge? Leftover dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing the container to maintain their texture and avoid sogginess. Can I freeze German Bread Dumplings? Absolutely! To freeze your dumplings, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are firm. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. What if my dumplings fall apart while cooking? If your dumplings are not holding together, consider using day-old bread instead of fresh to help maintain their structure. Additionally, ensure you’re gently simmering the water rather than boiling it, as a vigorous boil can break the dumplings apart. Aim for a cohesive dough in your mixing process, kneading just enough for everything to combine but avoiding overworking it. Are there any common allergies I should be aware of with this recipe? This recipe is vegan and free of common allergens like dairy and eggs. However, if you’re serving others, be sure to check for any additional allergies, such as gluten sensitivity with the bread, as it contains wheat. You can substitute gluten-free bread for a delightful alternative if needed. Can I adjust the herbs used in German Bread Dumplings? Certainly! The beauty of these Vegan German Bread Dumplings lies in their versatility. Feel free to substitute parsley with other fresh herbs like chives or thyme. Even adding sautéed mushrooms to the mixture can elevate the flavor profile, creating a unique twist that suits your taste! Delicious Vegan German Bread Dumplings for Cozy Nights These vegan German bread dumplings, or Semmelknödel, are a comforting side dish made from leftover bread, perfect for holiday meals and quick dinners. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsSoaking Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 8 dumplingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: GermanCalories: 80 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dumpling Mixture10 pieces Bread Rolls from the previous day; can substitute with stale white bread300 ml Soy Milk unsweetened preferred for vegan dumplings2 tsp Vegetable Oil e.g., canola or avocado1 Onion diced; shallots can be used for a sweeter taste⅔ cup Parsley chopped; can replace with chives or thyme1 tsp Salt to enhance flavor; adjust to taste½ tsp Nutmeg ground; optional for simpler flavor Equipment mixing bowlFrying panSaucepanLarge potSlotted spoon Method Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Vegan German Bread DumplingsBegin by cutting your day-old bread rolls into small, bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.In a small saucepan, gently heat the soy milk until it is lukewarm. Pour the warm soy milk over the bread pieces, tossing them together briefly.In a frying pan, heat 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes. Add in the chopped parsley and sauté for an additional minute.Transfer the sautéed onion and parsley to the bowl with the soaked bread. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg. Knead the mixture until it forms a cohesive dumpling dough.With wet hands, shape the mixture into 8 medium-sized dumplings and set them aside.Bring a large pot of salted water to a rapid boil. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer and carefully add the dumplings to the water. Cook for 15-20 minutes until they float to the surface.Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the dumplings from the pot and allow them to drain briefly. Serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1dumplingCalories: 80kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 2gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 0.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 4mg NotesLeftover Vegan German Bread Dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat by thawing in the fridge overnight and pan-frying until crispy. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
