What are Amish noodles made of?

Amish noodles are a type of egg noodle that is a staple in Amish cooking. They have a rich egg flavor and a dense, chewy texture. Amish noodles are most often served in dishes like chicken pot pie, beef and noodles, and chicken and noodles. But what exactly are Amish egg noodles made of?

Table of Contents

Main Ingredients

There are just a few simple ingredients that go into authentic Amish noodles. These include:

Eggs – Eggs are essential for both flavor and binding the noodles. Amish noodles are extra egg-rich, with at least 2 eggs per cup of flour.
Flour – Bread flour or all-purpose flour is used. The higher protein content of bread flour results in chewier noodles.
Salt – Just a pinch of salt is added for flavor.

Water – A small amount of water brings the dough together.

That’s it! Amish noodles get their distinctive flavors and textures from this simple combination of ingredients.

Detailed Amish Noodle Ingredients

Let’s take a more in-depth look at the key ingredients:

Eggs

Eggs provide moisture, flavor, protein, and binding. The high egg content gives Amish noodles their rich taste and dense texture. Most recipes call for at least 2 large eggs per cup of flour. Often 3 or more eggs are used. The eggs should be large for maximum richness.

Flour

Bread flour or all-purpose flour are common choices. Bread flour has a higher protein content, around 12-13%, versus 10-12% for all-purpose. The extra protein results in chewier noodles. However, all-purpose flour still makes excellent Amish noodles.

Salt

A small amount of salt brings out the flavor. Too much can cause the noodles to toughen. A pinch or 1/4 teaspoon per cup of flour is perfect.

Water

Water hydrates the flour and brings everything together into a pliable dough. Only a couple tablespoons per cup of flour are needed. The amount can vary based on the humidity and freshness of the flour.

Optional Amish Noodle Ingredients

In addition to the core ingredients, some Amish noodle recipes also include:

Milk – Some cooks substitute milk for the water. This adds extra moisture and richness.

Oil – A small amount of vegetable oil in the dough makes the noodles tender.
Onion/garlic powder – Powdered onions or garlic provide extra flavor.

Equipment for Making Amish Noodles

Not much specialty equipment is needed for Amish noodles. Here are the key tools:

Bowl – To mix the dough.
Fork or spoon – For mixing and stirring the dough.
Rolling pin – For rolling out the dough.

Knife – For cutting the noodles.
Ruler – Helps cut uniform noodles.
Pasta machine – Can roll and cut noodles instead of hand rolling.

Floured surface – For rolling out dough.
Colander or rack – For drying cut noodles.

Amish Noodle Making Process

Now let’s look at the step-by-step process for making delicious Amish noodles:

Mix the eggs, flour, salt, and water – Whisk together the eggs and salt. Stir in the flour 1/2 cup at a time until a shaggy dough forms. Add water as needed if dough seems dry. Knead briefly until combined.
Let dough rest – Cover dough and let rest for 30 minutes. This allows the flour to fully hydrate for easier rolling.
Roll out the dough – Divide dough into 4 pieces. On a floured surface, roll out one piece very thin, around 1/16 inch thick, frequently lifting and turning dough to prevent sticking. Add flour only minimally.

Cut into noodles – Fold the dough into a rectangular shape and use a knife or pizza cutter to cut into 1/4 to 1/2 inch wide noodles.
Spread out noodles – Carefully separate and spread out the cut noodles on a floured surface or rack to prevent sticking.
Repeat rolling and cutting – Roll out and cut remaining dough pieces.

Let noodles dry – Leave noodles uncovered for 30-60 minutes until dry to the touch. Longer drying produces firmer noodles.
Cook the noodles – Drop into boiling water for 2-3 minutes until al dente. Rinse in cold water and use immediately in recipes.

Key Tips for Making Great Amish Noodles

Follow these tips for the best homemade Amish noodles:

Use very fresh eggs for richness.
Don’t overwork the dough which can make noodles tough.
Roll dough very thin, 1/16 inch thick, for delicate noodles.

Flour the surface minimally when rolling to prevent dough from drying out.
Cut noodles by hand for rustic style or with a pasta machine for uniformity.
Dry cut noodles thoroughly before cooking or they will stick together.

Cook just until al dente, around 2-3 minutes.

How to Store Amish Noodles

Amish noodles can be stored in a few ways:

Dried – Let cut noodles dry completely on a rack, then place in sealed airtight bags or containers. Store in a cool, dry area for up to 1 month.

Frozen – Place dried noodles in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze solid. Transfer to freezer bags or containers. Frozen noodles will last 6-12 months.
Cooked – Cooked Amish noodles can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk before serving.

For fresh homemade taste, it’s best to cook Amish noodles soon after cutting. But drying and freezing lets you enjoy their homemade goodness for weeks.

4 Authentic Amish Noodle Recipes

Here are a few classic Amish noodle recipes to try at home:

Classic Beef and Noodles

Beef and noodles is a signature Amish comfort food. Tender beef and vegetables simmer in a rich broth with homemade noodles. It’s pure warmth in a bowl.

Amish Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie gets an Amish twist with thick, chewy noodles baked under a golden brown crust. Carrots, peas, and celery add color and fresh flavor.

Creamy Amish Chicken and Noodles

Chicken and noodles join forces with cream of chicken soup to form an easy, creamy casserole. A touch of lemon brightens each bite.

Amish Macaroni Salad

Elbow macaroni noodles made Amish-style star in this cool and creamy picnic salad alongside shredded lettuce, bell peppers, onions, and a tangy dressing.

The Joy of Homemade Amish Noodles

Amish noodles are simple to make but bring so much joy to comfort food dishes. With just eggs, flour, and a rolling pin you can create delicious, old-fashioned noodles. They are the perfect partner for saucy, soul-warming recipes. The next time you crave classic chicken and noodles or beef stroganoff, try crafting your own Amish noodles from scratch. You’ll love the tender texture and fresh, eggy taste that store-bought noodles can’t match. So break out your apron and get ready to roll. Homemade Amish noodles will soon be your new favorite pantry staple!