Amish Buttered Egg Noodles: A Simple, Comforting Classic

Amish Buttered Egg Noodles are the epitome of comfort food. This dish, with its rich, buttery flavor and satisfyingly soft texture, is a staple in Amish kitchens and a welcome addition to any home cook’s repertoire. It’s incredibly simple to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients, yet delivers a depth of flavor that belies its humble origins. This recipe will guide you through creating perfect Amish Buttered Egg Noodles, from selecting the right noodles to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.

Why Amish Buttered Egg Noodles?

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s explore what makes this dish so special. Amish cooking is known for its simplicity, resourcefulness, and focus on wholesome ingredients. Buttered egg noodles perfectly embody these principles. They’re economical, quick to prepare, and satisfyingly delicious. They’re also incredibly versatile, serving as a comforting side dish, a base for creamy sauces, or even a hearty main course with the addition of protein and vegetables.

Buttered egg noodles are a great way to introduce children to cooking, especially if they are old enough to understand simple steps in making food. It helps them to develop an understanding of food as they age and promotes creativity with recipes.

The Key Ingredients

This recipe relies on a few key ingredients, so choosing high-quality options will make a significant difference in the final product.

* **Egg Noodles:** Wide or medium egg noodles are the traditional choice for this dish. Look for noodles made with real eggs for the best flavor and texture. Fresh egg noodles, if available, will result in an even more decadent dish, but dried egg noodles work perfectly well.
* **Butter:** Unsalted butter is preferred, as it allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. High-quality butter, such as European-style butter, will have a richer flavor that elevates the overall taste. You can also use browned butter for added depth of flavor.
* **Salt:** Salt is essential for bringing out the flavors of the noodles and butter. Use sea salt or kosher salt for the best results.
* **Pepper:** Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of warmth and complexity. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking.
* **Optional Additions:** While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, you can customize it with various additions. Some popular options include:
* **Garlic:** Minced garlic adds a savory note.
* **Onion:** Finely diced onion provides a subtle sweetness.
* **Herbs:** Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill add a burst of freshness.
* **Cheese:** Grated Parmesan cheese or Romano cheese adds a salty, savory element.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Here’s a detailed guide to making perfect Amish Buttered Egg Noodles.

**Yields:** 4-6 servings
**Prep time:** 5 minutes
**Cook time:** 15 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound wide or medium egg noodles
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
* 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
* 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
* Optional additions: minced garlic, finely diced onion, fresh herbs, grated cheese

**Equipment:**

* Large pot
* Colander
* Large bowl or serving dish

**Instructions**

**1. Cook the Noodles:**

* Fill a large pot with plenty of water. The noodles need room to move around freely to cook evenly and prevent sticking. Add a pinch of salt to the water to season the noodles as they cook. This is a crucial step, as it’s the only chance you have to season the noodles from the inside out.
* Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. A rolling boil ensures that the noodles cook quickly and evenly.
* Add the egg noodles to the boiling water. Stir gently to prevent them from sticking together. It’s important to stir immediately after adding the noodles, as they tend to clump together at the bottom of the pot.
* Cook the noodles according to the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until they are tender but still slightly firm to the bite (al dente). Be careful not to overcook the noodles, as they will become mushy. Start checking for doneness a minute or two before the recommended cooking time.

**2. Drain the Noodles:**

* Once the noodles are cooked to your liking, immediately drain them in a colander. Shake the colander gently to remove any excess water. It’s important to drain the noodles quickly to prevent them from continuing to cook in the hot water.
* Do not rinse the noodles unless you are not serving them immediately. Rinsing removes some of the starch, which can prevent the sauce from clinging to the noodles. However, if you are not serving the noodles right away, rinsing them with cold water will stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together.

**3. Butter the Noodles:**

* While the noodles are cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet or in the same pot you used to cook the noodles (after draining and wiping it clean). Melt the butter over medium heat until it is completely melted and slightly frothy. Be careful not to burn the butter.
* If using garlic or onion, add them to the melted butter and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. This will infuse the butter with flavor.
* Add the drained noodles to the melted butter (or butter with garlic/onion). Toss gently to coat the noodles evenly with the butter. Make sure every strand of noodle is glistening with butter.
* Season with salt and pepper to taste. Start with the recommended amounts and adjust as needed. Remember, you can always add more seasoning, but you can’t take it away.
* If using fresh herbs, stir them in at the end, just before serving. This will preserve their fresh flavor and vibrant color.
* If using grated cheese, sprinkle it over the noodles and toss gently to combine. The cheese will melt slightly from the heat of the noodles.

**4. Serve Immediately:**

* Serve the Amish Buttered Egg Noodles immediately while they are hot and flavorful. They are best enjoyed fresh.
* Garnish with additional fresh herbs or grated cheese, if desired. A sprinkle of parsley or a dusting of Parmesan cheese can add a final touch of elegance.

Tips for Perfect Amish Buttered Egg Noodles

* **Use high-quality ingredients:** As mentioned earlier, the quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the final result. Choose good-quality egg noodles and butter for the best flavor.
* **Don’t overcook the noodles:** Overcooked noodles will be mushy and unappetizing. Cook them al dente, so they retain a slight firmness.
* **Season generously:** Salt and pepper are essential for bringing out the flavors of the dish. Don’t be afraid to season generously, but taste as you go.
* **Melt the butter properly:** Melt the butter over medium heat until it is completely melted and slightly frothy. Be careful not to burn it.
* **Toss gently:** When tossing the noodles with the butter, be gentle to avoid breaking them.
* **Serve immediately:** Amish Buttered Egg Noodles are best enjoyed fresh and hot.

Variations and Additions

One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ideas for variations and additions:

* **Brown Butter Noodles:** Brown the butter before adding the noodles for a nutty, caramelized flavor. To brown the butter, continue cooking it over medium heat after it has melted, swirling the pan occasionally. The butter will start to foam and then turn a golden brown color. Be careful not to burn it.
* **Garlic Parmesan Noodles:** Add minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese for a savory, cheesy twist.
* **Herb Butter Noodles:** Add fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill for a burst of freshness.
* **Creamy Noodles:** Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the butter sauce for a richer, creamier dish.
* **Vegetable Noodles:** Add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or asparagus for a more substantial meal.
* **Chicken Noodles:** Add cooked chicken for a hearty and satisfying main course.
* **Mushroom Noodles:** Saute mushrooms in butter along with garlic and onion before tossing with the noodles.
* **Spinach Noodles:** Saute spinach with garlic and butter for a healthy and delicious addition.
* **Lemon Pepper Noodles:** Add lemon zest and a generous amount of black pepper for a bright and zesty flavor.
* **Spicy Noodles:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Serving Suggestions

Amish Buttered Egg Noodles are a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

* **As a side dish:** Serve them as a side dish with roasted chicken, pork, or beef.
* **As a base for sauces:** Use them as a base for creamy sauces like Alfredo or pesto.
* **As a main course:** Add protein and vegetables for a hearty and satisfying main course.
* **With a salad:** Serve them with a simple green salad for a light and refreshing meal.
* **As a comfort food:** Enjoy them on their own as a simple and comforting meal.

Storage and Reheating

* **Storage:** Leftover Amish Buttered Egg Noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheating:** To reheat, microwave the noodles for a minute or two, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a little butter or water. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)

* Calories: 300-400
* Fat: 15-25g
* Saturated Fat: 10-15g
* Cholesterol: 100-150mg
* Sodium: 300-500mg
* Carbohydrates: 30-40g
* Fiber: 1-2g
* Protein: 10-15g

*Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

Conclusion

Amish Buttered Egg Noodles are a classic comfort food that is easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that is both delicious and versatile. Whether you serve them as a side dish or a main course, these noodles are sure to be a hit with everyone. So, gather your ingredients and get cooking! You’re just a few steps away from enjoying a taste of Amish tradition in your own home.

Enjoy your Amish Buttered Egg Noodles!

Enjoying the Tradition

This recipe, while simple, connects us to a long tradition of home cooking and resourcefulness. The Amish culture values simplicity and making the most of what they have. This dish reflects those values beautifully. As you prepare and enjoy these noodles, take a moment to appreciate the history and the simple pleasures of good food shared with loved ones.

By making this recipe, you’re not just cooking a meal; you’re participating in a culinary heritage that has been passed down through generations. It’s a reminder that sometimes the simplest things in life are the most rewarding. So, embrace the simplicity, savor the flavor, and enjoy the tradition of Amish Buttered Egg Noodles.

Experiment with the variations and additions to create your own signature version of this classic dish. The possibilities are endless, and the result is always a comforting and delicious meal.