Nookala (Traditional Hutterite Egg Dumpling Soup)

Hutterite Egg Dumpling Soup is a heartwarming, soul-soothing dish that brings comfort in every spoonful. This traditional Hutterite recipe features tender egg dumplings floating in a savory chicken broth—perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a simple, homestyle meal, this soup delivers on flavor, ease, and nostalgia. Let’s dive in and discover why this recipe deserves a spot in your culinary rotation!

What is Nookala Hutterite Egg Dumpling Soup?

Ever hear a name like “Nookala” and think, “What on earth does that mean?” You’re not alone! This quirky name might sound like a forgotten pasta shape or a distant cousin of gnocchi, but it’s actually a treasured Hutterite recipe. Some say it’s a twist on the German word “knödel,” meaning dumpling, while others think it’s just the sound you make when tasting the first spoonful: Nook-ahhh-la!

No matter the origin, one thing is certain: this dish lives up to the saying, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Once you try it, you’ll understand why generations of Hutterites keep coming back for more. Curious yet? Keep reading and get ready to bring this classic into your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Hutterite Egg Dumpling Soup

• Comfort in Every Spoonful: These fluffy egg dumplings are light, satisfying, and soak up all the delicious chicken broth flavors. It’s like a warm blanket for your taste buds.
• Budget-Friendly: Using pantry staples like flour, eggs, and broth, this recipe costs less than your average takeout meal.
• Customizable & Flavorful: Add shredded chicken, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of cheese on top. Want to explore more Hutterite flavors? Check out our Hutterite Sausage Soup for another savory option.

If you’re a fan of cozy, nourishing meals like German knoephla or homemade chicken and dumplings, you’ll love this lighter, quicker alternative. So go on—gather your ingredients and start stirring!

Key Ingredients for Hutterite Egg Dumpling Soup

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup cooked chicken, diced or shredded (optional)
• Fresh parsley (optional garnish)
• Black pepper, to taste

How to Make Hutterite Egg Dumpling Soup

This one-pot wonder comes together in just about 35 minutes, including prep time. Fluffy dumplings and a rich broth? Yes, please. It’s easy, filling, and great for beginners.

Hutterite Egg Dumpling Soup

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• Author: Daniel Miller
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

A cozy, comforting Hutterite classic featuring tender egg dumplings simmered in savory chicken broth. Simple, satisfying, and full of heritage.

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Ingredients

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• 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup cooked chicken, diced or shredded (optional)
• Fresh parsley (optional garnish)
• Black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large stockpot, bring 8 cups of chicken broth to a gentle boil.
2. In a bowl, beat softened butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt until you get a sticky dough.
3. Use a spoon to scoop small mounds of dough into the simmering broth. Try to keep them uniform for even cooking.
4. Reduce heat, cover loosely, and let dumplings simmer for 15–20 minutes. Don’t lift the lid too often, or they may deflate.
5. Stir in pre-cooked chicken during the last few minutes to heat through.
6. Ladle soup into bowls, top with parsley and pepper, and serve hot.

Notes

For extra flavor, add herbs like thyme or bay leaf to the broth while simmering (remove before serving). Make sure not to overmix the dough to keep dumplings tender.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Hutterite

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 125mg

What to Serve Hutterite Egg Dumpling Soup With

Looking to round out your meal? Here are some perfect pairings:

• Hutterite Bread: Perfect for dipping!
• Hutterite Buns: Soft, golden, and great on the side.
• Light salad with vinaigrette
• White wine like Riesling or Pinot Grigio

Top Tips for Perfecting Hutterite Egg Dumpling Soup

• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine your dough—overmixing makes dumplings tough.
• Room Temp Eggs: This helps create a smoother dough.
• Size Matters: Use teaspoons or small scoops for evenly sized dumplings.
• Broth Boost: Add herbs like thyme or bay leaf for extra aroma (just remove before serving).

Storing and Reheating Tip

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
• Freeze: For best texture, freeze just the broth. Make fresh dumplings when reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove over low heat. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason why Nookala is still a staple in Hutterite homes. This comforting, nostalgic dish is simple to make and bursting with flavor. It’s a meal that brings people together, warms the soul, and leaves no leftovers.

Explore more Hutterite favorites on our blog, like Hutterite Schuten Pie and Hutterite Mile-High Lemon Pie for dessert ideas that wow!

Follow us on Pinterest for more traditional recipes, or read behind-the-scenes stories on our Medium blog.

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