Crunchy Noodle Kugel is a beloved dish in Jewish cuisine, often made as a sweet or savory casserole. This version, inspired by Great-Aunt Martha, features a delightful crunch and a rich, comforting flavor.
Great-Aunt Martha’s recipe has been passed down through generations, cherished for its balance of sweetness and texture. It makes a perfect side dish for holidays, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a hearty and comforting meal.
The History of Noodle Kugel
Noodle kugel has roots in Eastern European Jewish culinary traditions. Originally, kugel was a savory dish, made primarily from bread or noodles. Over time, it evolved into a sweet dessert, particularly in Ashkenazi Jewish households, where ingredients like eggs, sugar, and dairy were often used.
Great-Aunt Martha’s recipe is a classic representation of how family traditions shape and influence recipes. Each family adds their own twist, creating unique variations. The addition of a crunchy topping elevates this kugel, making it a standout dish that holds a special place in many hearts.
A Tribute to Great-Aunt Martha
Great-Aunt Martha was more than just a family member; she was the heart of our gatherings and the keeper of cherished traditions. Her kitchen was a warm and inviting space filled with the delightful aromas of her cooking, where she effortlessly blended love and flavor into every dish. Known for her generous spirit, Martha always welcomed family and friends with open arms and a warm smile, making everyone feel at home.
Her Culinary Legacy
Martha’s culinary skills were legendary. She had a natural talent for turning simple ingredients into extraordinary meals, and her recipes were often a mix of traditional techniques and creative twists. The Crunchy Noodle Kugel recipe, in particular, was a family favorite, often served at holidays and special occasions. It embodied her ability to balance flavors and textures, creating a dish that was both comforting and celebratory.
Teaching and Sharing
Beyond just cooking, Martha was a teacher at heart. She loved to share her knowledge with younger generations, often inviting them into her kitchen to learn the secrets behind her beloved recipes. With every lesson, she imparted not just cooking skills, but also values of patience, kindness, and the importance of family. Her hands-on approach made learning fun, and her enthusiasm was contagious.
The Spirit of Family
Great-Aunt Martha understood the power of food in bringing people together. She believed that meals were opportunities for connection and storytelling. Every family dinner was an occasion for sharing laughter, memories, and love, all enhanced by her delicious dishes. Her kugel became a symbol of family gatherings, representing the bonds that tied everyone together.
A Lasting Influence
Though Great-Aunt Martha may no longer be with us, her influence lives on in every bite of her recipes that we prepare. Each time we make her Crunchy Noodle Kugel, we honor her memory and keep her spirit alive in our hearts and homes. Her legacy is not just in the food she created but in the love and unity she fostered within our family.
By continuing to pass down her recipes, we celebrate her life and the traditions she cherished, ensuring that her warmth and love are felt for generations to come.
Ingredients
For the Noodle Kugel:
- Egg Noodles: 12 ounces (wide egg noodles are traditional)
- Butter: 1/2 cup (melted)
- Cottage Cheese: 1 cup
- Sour Cream: 1 cup
- Sugar: 1 cup
- Eggs: 4 large (beaten)
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Ground Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Raisins: 1 cup (optional)
For the Crunchy Topping:
- Cornflakes or Panko Breadcrumbs: 2 cups
- Butter: 1/4 cup (melted)
- Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large casserole dish (about 9×13 inches) with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cook the Noodles
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
3. Prepare the Noodle Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, cottage cheese, sour cream, sugar, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well until smooth.
4. Combine Ingredients
Pour the cheese mixture over the cooked noodles and stir to combine. If you’re adding raisins, fold them in gently.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish
Spread the noodle mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish.
6. Make the Crunchy Topping
In a medium bowl, mix together the cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir until the crumbs are well coated.
7. Add the Topping
Sprinkle the crunchy topping evenly over the noodle mixture.
8. Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes or until the kugel is set and the topping is golden brown and crunchy.
9. Cool and Serve
Allow the kugel to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown of nutritional content for one serving (1/12 of the kugel):
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 200mg
Nutritional Benefits:
- Protein: Eggs and cottage cheese provide a good source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Calcium: Dairy ingredients like cottage cheese and sour cream are rich in calcium, important for bone health.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Ingredients like eggs and dairy are also rich in various B vitamins and minerals, supporting overall health.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted meats or poultry for a comforting meal.
- For Breakfast: Enjoy a slice with fresh fruit for a delicious and filling breakfast option.
- Dessert: Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Storage Tips:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or microwave until warm.
The secret is to use a rimmed baking sheet, which increases the surface area of the kugel exposed to the heat of the oven, while still baking it at a slightly higher temperature. Soaking the grapes in sherry or orange juice enhances the flavor and also prevents them from burning in a very hot oven.
Cultural Significance
Kugel is more than just a dish; it’s a symbol of Jewish tradition and family. It often appears at festive meals, particularly during Jewish holidays such as Passover and Rosh Hashanah. The crunchy topping in Great-Aunt Martha’s recipe adds a delightful texture that complements the rich, creamy filling, making it a favorite among family and friends.
Each time this kugel is prepared, it carries with it the memories and traditions of those who came before, bringing a sense of connection and belonging to the table.
FAQs about Crunchy Noodle Kugel
- Can I make this kugel ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the kugel a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving. - Can I use other types of noodles?
While wide egg noodles are traditional, you can use other pasta shapes if you prefer. - Is this kugel gluten-free?
Traditional noodle kugel is not gluten-free due to egg noodles. However, you can use gluten-free pasta for a suitable alternative. - How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to three months. - Can I add different fruits?
Yes, you can incorporate different dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for added flavor. - What should I serve with kugel?
Kugel pairs well with roasted meats, brisket, or can be enjoyed as a standalone dish for breakfast or dessert. - Can I make a savory version of kugel?
Yes! You can omit the sugar and add vegetables, cheese, or herbs to create a savory kugel. - What is the best way to reheat kugel?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. - Is this kugel suitable for Passover?
You can modify the recipe to be kosher for Passover by using matzo instead of noodles and ensuring all ingredients are kosher. - Why is the topping crunchy?
The crunchy topping is achieved by using cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs mixed with butter and sugar, providing a delightful texture contrast to the creamy filling.
Conclusion
Crunchy Noodle Kugel à la Great-Aunt Martha is more than just a dish; it’s a heartfelt connection to family traditions and culinary heritage. Its rich flavors, delightful texture, and cultural significance make it a cherished favorite at any gathering. Whether served at holiday feasts or enjoyed as a comforting meal, this kugel is sure to warm the hearts of all who share it.
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