If you’re craving classic bread dumplings (Semmelknödel) but want a vegan option, these fluffy dumplings are soft, savory, and dairy-free thanks to the flaxseed egg substitute. They pair beautifully with mushroom cream sauce. The recipe uses stale rolls to soak up flavor and create a tender texture.
Recipe: (serves 4)
Ingredients
8–10 rolls or buns (about 400–500 g)
250 ml plant-based milk (e.g., oat or soy), warmed
1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
3 tablespoons water (to make flax egg)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons vegan butter or oil
2–3 tablespoons parsley, finely chopped
1–2 tablespoons nutritional yeast flakes (optional for a cheesy note)
Salt, pepper
Nutmeg (optional)
Optional: 1–2 tablespoons bread crumbs (for extra binding)
Optional: a pinch of lemon zest or chives
Instructions
Prepare flax egg substitute:
In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water. Stir well and let sit 5–10 minutes until it thickens to a gel.
Cube the rolls:
Cut the rolls into rough cubes and place in a large mixing bowl.
Sauté the onion:
Sauté the onion in vegan butter or oil until translucent, then let it cool slightly.
Warm the milk:
Lightly salt the warm plant-based milk to taste.
Combine everything:
Pour the warm milk over the roll cubes. Add the flax gel, sautéed onion, parsley, nutritional yeast (if using), and lemon zest (if using). Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Mix to combine.
Bind and knead:
Knead the mixture with your hands until it is slightly moist and cohesive. If it’s too dry, add a little more warm milk; if it’s too sticky, fold in a bit of bread crumbs or additional roll bits.
Shape the dumplings:
With wet hands, form 4–6 evenly sized dumplings.
Cook:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle simmer (not a rolling boil). Slip the dumplings in and cook for about 15–20 minutes, until they feel firm and rise to the surface.
Serve:
Drain and serve immediately with your choice of vegan sauces or sides.
Serving suggestions (vegan):
Creamy mushroom sauce
Red cabbage or sauerkraut
Vegan roast gravy
Sautéed mushrooms with onions and herbs