This creamy, comforting German dumpling soup is a North Dakota staple—thick with potatoes, veggies, and homemade knoephla (tender little dumplings). Add optional chicken for protein. Perfect for winter!
2c.(300g)chicken breast, cooked & cut upcooked & cut up (optional)
For the Dumplings
2c.(250g)flour
1tsp.salt
½tsp.baking powderoptional (for a more tender dumplings)
1tsp.onion powder
1egg
½c.(122g)milk+ 1 or 2 tbsp. if too dry
Instructions
In a 6 quart stockpot, melt the butter. Sauté the onions, celery, & carrots for about 10 minutes or until the onions are cooked and transparent.
Add water, potatoes, milk, broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a low boil, then simmer for about 20 minutes or until potatoes are almost cooked.
While simmering, prepare dumplings: In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and onion powder. Add egg and milk; mix gently until a stiff dough forms (do not overmix). Rest 5–10 minutes if needed.
To Prepare Dumplings
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the flour salt, onion powder, and baking powder.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg and milk until an even consistency.
Mix the wet and dry ingredients together (add additional milk if dough is too dry) and knead to get a smooth even dough. Let rest for 5 to 10 minutes for easier handling
Roll dough into ½" diameter ropes. Cut into ¼" pieces with a pastry cutter or knife.
When the potatoes are almost cooked, then drop dumpling pieces individually into the gently simmering soup.
Simmer for about 10 minutes or until dumplings are cooked through (they'll float and feel tender).
Stir in heavy cream, adjust salt and pepper, and serve hot.
Video
Notes
For vegetarian: Omit chicken and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
Dumpling tips: Keep pieces small for even cooking; gentle simmer prevents toughness.
Substitutions: Evaporated milk works great instead of heavy cream (pantry-friendly!).
Leftovers store well in the fridge and reheat nicely.