We love Kugel, a hearty baked dish with deep roots in Ashkenazi Jewish tradition, where it warms hearts at family feasts and holidays. Originating from Eastern Europe, this versatile recipe stars egg noodles or potatoes mixed with sweet or savory flavors that bring comfort to any table.
In our take, we’ll guide you through simple steps to create a crowd-pleaser that’s easy yet packed with nostalgia. Whether you’re exploring Kugel for the first time or refining your skills, it’s a recipe that’ll become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To bring our traditional Kugel recipe to life—a comforting Ashkenazi Jewish favorite—we start by gathering fresh, high-quality ingredients. We’ll focus on a classic sweet noodle Kugel version, ordering them as they appear in the preparation process for seamless cooking. Remember, precise measurements ensure the best results, so let’s dive into what you’ll need.
For the Noodle Base
- 12 ounces egg noodles: Use wide egg noodles for the perfect texture; cook them al dente before incorporating.
Dairy and Binding Agents
- 4 large eggs: Fresh eggs beaten well to bind the mixture and add richness.
- 1 cup sour cream: Full-fat for creaminess; it helps create that signature moist consistency.
- 1 cup cottage cheese: We recommend whole milk cottage cheese for a tangy contrast; drain any excess liquid.
Sweeteners and Flavor Enhancers
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Adjust to taste if you prefer a less sweet Kugel; it balances the savory elements.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A key spice that infuses warmth and evokes the dish’s Eastern European roots.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter: Melted to coat the noodles and add a golden, buttery finish.
- ½ cup whole milk: Added for moisture; warm it slightly to blend smoothly with other ingredients.
This selection yields about 8 servings, making it ideal for family gatherings. For nutritional highlights, here’s a quick overview in a markdown table:
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein (g) | 12 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 45 |
| Fat (g) | 15 |
Prepare these ingredients ahead to streamline our step-by-step instructions in the next section.
Instructions
With our fresh ingredients gathered, we’re thrilled to walk you through crafting this classic sweet noodle Kugel step by step. These instructions will help us turn simple components into a comforting, aromatic dish that’s perfect for family meals.
Prepare Ingredients
Before we start cooking, let’s get our ingredients ready for easy assembly. Begin by boiling 12 ounces of wide egg noodles in a large pot of salted water until they are al dente—typically 7 to 9 minutes—then drain and set aside to cool slightly. In a separate bowl, whisk 4 large eggs until smooth and fluffy, then stir in 1 cup of sour cream, 1 cup of cottage cheese, and ½ cup of granulated sugar for a creamy base that adds a rich, tangy sweetness.
Next, enhance the flavor by mixing in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and melting ¼ cup of unsalted butter to incorporate. Finally, add ½ cup of whole milk to the mixture, ensuring everything is well combined into a smooth batter. This preparation sets the stage for a dish with a delightful balance of textures and flavors.
Cook the Dish
Now that our ingredients are prepped, let’s combine and bake for that irresistible golden finish. In a large mixing bowl, gently fold the drained noodles into the egg and dairy mixture until evenly coated, then transfer the blend to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish for even cooking.
Preheat our oven to 350°F and bake the Kugel for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the top is crispy and golden brown with a fragrant cinnamon aroma filling the kitchen. To check doneness, insert a knife into the center—it should come out clean. This step yields about 8 servings, each offering a soft, noodle-filled interior contrasted with a crunchy exterior.
| Step | Time (minutes) | Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | N/A | 350 |
| Bake Kugel | 45-55 | 350 |
Serve
Once baked, let the Kugel cool in the dish for 10 minutes to set, allowing the flavors to meld into a warm, comforting treat. Cut into 8 equal portions and serve warm, perhaps with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon for added zest. This versatile dish shines at gatherings, offering nostalgic, hearty appeal that’s easy to customize for any occasion.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled to have guided you through this timeless Kugel recipe. It’s more than just a dish—it’s a warm embrace of tradition that brings people together.
By incorporating fresh ingredients and simple steps, we’ve made it easy to create your own comforting version. Try experimenting with flavors to make it yours, and enjoy the satisfaction of sharing this staple at your next gathering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kugel?
Kugel is a traditional Ashkenazi Jewish baked dish from Eastern Europe, known for its comforting and versatile nature. It’s typically made with egg noodles or potatoes and can be sweet or savory, making it a nostalgic favorite for family gatherings and easy to adapt for any meal.
How do you make sweet noodle Kugel?
To make sweet noodle Kugel, boil 12 ounces of wide egg noodles. Mix 4 large eggs, 1 cup sour cream, 1 cup cottage cheese, ½ cup sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ cup unsalted butter, and ½ cup whole milk. Combine with the noodles, bake at 350°F for 45-55 minutes until golden brown, then cool for 10 minutes before serving.
What ingredients are needed for a classic sweet noodle Kugel?
You’ll need 12 ounces of wide egg noodles, 4 large eggs, 1 cup sour cream, 1 cup cottage cheese, ½ cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ¼ cup unsalted butter, and ½ cup whole milk. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures the best flavor and texture.
Is Kugel healthy?
A serving of sweet noodle Kugel has about 350 calories, 12g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It’s nutritious with protein from eggs and dairy, but watch portions due to carbs and fats. Balance it with veggies or lean proteins for a healthier meal.
Can Kugel be made in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Kugel ahead of time. Assemble it and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours, then bake when needed. It reheats well in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, keeping its soft interior and crunchy top fresh for gatherings.
What are the origins of Kugel?
Kugel originated in Eastern Europe as a staple in Ashkenazi Jewish cuisine, evolving from simple Sabbath dishes. Traditionally baked to keep warm during holidays, it’s now versatile and loved worldwide for its comforting qualities, with versions like sweet noodle or savory potato.