Frequently Asked Questions
What are Geraldine's Classic Southern Indiana Homemade Egg Noodles?
They are a cherished, traditional Southern Indiana family recipe for delicate and flavorful egg noodles passed down through generations for over a century.
What is the history behind this egg noodle recipe?
This recipe originates from the heart of Southern Indiana's culinary tradition and has been used for over 100 years at family gatherings and community events.
How many ingredients are required for Geraldine's egg noodles?
The recipe requires 6 simple ingredients: an egg, cold water, salt, baking powder, all-purpose flour, and optional food coloring.
How much flour is needed for the dough?
The recipe calls for 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour, plus additional flour for dusting your work surface.
Is the water used in the recipe cold or hot?
The recipe specifies using 1 tablespoon of cold water mixed with the egg.
Why is baking powder used in these egg noodles?
Baking powder is included in the dry ingredients to help give the noodles their signature delicate texture.
Is yellow food coloring necessary for the recipe?
No, adding one drop of yellow food coloring is optional and is used to give the noodles a more vibrant traditional color.
How do you start the dough-making process?
Start by beating the egg together with cold water and salt in a medium-sized bowl until well combined.
When should I add the flour to the egg mixture?
After stirring in the baking powder, gradually add 1/4 cup of flour initially, then continue adding the rest until the dough holds together.
What should the consistency of the dough be before kneading?
The dough should hold together and no longer be sticky before you transfer it to a floured surface for kneading.
How long should I knead the noodle dough?
You should gently knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
How thin should the dough be rolled out?
The dough should be rolled out as thin as possible to ensure the noodles have the correct delicate texture once cooked.
How do I prevent the dough from sticking to the rolling pin?
Keep both your work surface and your rolling pin generously floured throughout the rolling process to prevent sticking.
Why does the dough need to dry before slicing?
Allowing the dough to dry for about 1 hour after rolling helps make the slicing process cleaner and easier.
How long should the rolled-out dough dry before cutting?
The dough should sit and dry for approximately 1 hour before you attempt to roll and slice it.
What is the 'jelly roll' method mentioned in the instructions?
After the dough has dried slightly, you roll it up tightly like a jelly roll, which allows you to cut many noodle layers at once with a sharp knife.
How wide should the egg noodles be cut?
Use a sharp knife to cut the rolled dough into slices that are between 1/8 to 1/4-inch wide.
What do I do after slicing the noodles?
Carefully unroll each noodle slice to separate them and lay them flat on a floured surface to dry completely.
What is the best liquid for cooking these noodles?
The noodles are best cooked in at least 1 quart of boiling chicken or beef broth for maximum flavor.
How long do the noodles need to boil?
The noodles should be cooked in a rapid boil for approximately 25 minutes until they are tender.
How can I tell when the noodles are done cooking?
The noodles are ready when they are tender and cooked all the way through, typically after 25 minutes of boiling.
Can these homemade noodles be frozen?
Yes, any unused noodles can be frozen and stored for future meals.
What dishes pair well with these egg noodles?
They are the perfect companion for your favorite soups, hearty sauces, or served simply in a seasoned broth.
Is this a quick-cooking recipe?
While the preparation involves drying time, the cooking process itself is straightforward, and they are tagged as a 'quick cooking' pasta option.
What makes this recipe 'Southern Indiana' style?
The style refers to the specific texture and traditional preparation methods used by families in the Southern Indiana region for over a century.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, these noodles are specifically tagged as comfort food because of their rich flavor and heart-warming qualities.
Can I make these noodles ahead of time?
Yes, since they can be dried completely or frozen, they are an excellent make-ahead ingredient for future dinners.
What is the prep for the egg in this recipe?
The egg should be beaten before being mixed with the water and salt.
How many servings does this recipe make?
While the specific serving count isn't listed, the recipe uses 1 egg and 3/4 cup of flour, making a standard small batch of fresh pasta.
Are these noodles suitable for beef stroganoff?
Yes, their delicate texture and ability to be cut into custom widths makes them ideal for hearty sauces like stroganoff.