Golden Crispy Savory Noodle Kugel
Experience the perfect blend of textures in this Golden Crispy Savory Noodle Kugel. This traditional dish features deliciously soft egg noodles enveloped in a rich, savory custard, baked to perfection with a crispy, golden-brown crust. Ideal for serving at festive gatherings or family dinners, this kugel is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also promises to be a crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests asking for seconds. It’s versatile enough to be enjoyed as a side dish or a hearty main course.
9
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Vegetable Oil
1/2 cup (divided)
Egg Noodles
1 lb (cooked and drained)
Eggs
4 (beaten)
Salt
1 teaspoon (to taste)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained cooked egg noodles, beaten eggs, 1/4 cup of vegetable oil, and salt. Stir until the noodle mixture is well coated.
3
In a 9x9 inch or 13x9 inch baking pan, add the remaining 1/4 cup of vegetable oil. Place the empty pan in the preheated oven for about 3 minutes, allowing the oil to heat up and create a crispy base for the kugel.
4
Carefully remove the hot pan from the oven. Pour the noodle mixture into the sizzling hot oil, spreading it evenly throughout the pan.
5
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.
6
Once done, remove the kugel from the oven. Let it cool slightly before cutting it into squares. Serve warm and enjoy your delightful dish!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Golden Crispy Savory Noodle Kugel?
It is a traditional Jewish dish featuring soft egg noodles in a savory egg custard, baked until the exterior is golden and crispy.
Is this recipe for savory noodle kugel vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe uses egg noodles, vegetable oil, and eggs, making it suitable for a vegetarian diet.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields approximately 9 servings.
What type of noodles are required?
The recipe calls for 1 pound of egg noodles, which should be cooked and drained before mixing.
How do I achieve a crispy crust on the kugel?
The secret to a crispy crust is preheating 1/4 cup of vegetable oil in the baking pan for 3 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit before adding the noodle mixture.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
How long does the kugel take to bake?
The kugel typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes to bake until the top is golden brown.
What ingredients are needed for the custard base?
The custard base is made by combining 4 beaten eggs, vegetable oil, and salt.
Can I use a different size pan?
Yes, you can use either a 9x9 inch or a 13x9 inch baking pan depending on how thick you want the kugel slices to be.
Should I cook the noodles before baking?
Yes, the egg noodles must be cooked and drained according to package instructions before being mixed with the other ingredients.
How much oil is used in the recipe?
A total of 1/2 cup of vegetable oil is used, divided equally between the noodle mixture and the baking pan.
Can I add other spices to the savory kugel?
While the recipe calls for salt, you can easily add black pepper, garlic powder, or onion powder for additional savory flavor.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, with only 4 main ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is designed to be quick and easy to prepare.
When is the best time to serve kugel?
It is ideal for festive gatherings, family dinners, or holiday meals like Shabbat or Hanukkah.
Can I serve this as a main course?
Yes, while often served as a side dish, its hearty nature makes it a great vegetarian main course option.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days.
How do I reheat the kugel to keep it crispy?
To maintain the crispy texture, it is best to reheat slices in the oven or a toaster oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the traditional egg noodles with your favorite gluten-free noodle alternative.
Why do I need to beat the eggs?
Beating the eggs ensures they incorporate evenly with the oil and salt to create a consistent custard that binds the noodles.
Is this kugel sweet or savory?
This is a savory kugel recipe, focusing on salt and oil rather than sugar, cinnamon, or raisins.
Can I add vegetables to the mix?
Yes, sautéed onions or mushrooms are popular additions that complement the savory flavor profile of this dish.
What should the internal texture be like?
The inside should be soft and tender, contrasting with the golden-brown crispy top and edges.
Can I use butter instead of vegetable oil?
Yes, melted butter can be used for a richer flavor, though vegetable oil is traditionally used for a higher smoke point and crispier edges.
Can I freeze savory noodle kugel?
Yes, the kugel freezes well. Wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap, and it will stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Should I let it cool before cutting?
Yes, letting it cool slightly for a few minutes allows the custard to set, making it easier to cut into clean squares.
How many eggs are required per pound of noodles?
This recipe uses 4 eggs for 1 pound of egg noodles.
Does this kugel contain dairy?
As written with vegetable oil, this recipe is dairy-free (Pareve), provided the egg noodles do not contain dairy ingredients.
What tags describe this dish?
The dish is tagged as kugel, noodle dish, savory, baked dish, vegetarian, comfort food, and traditional.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely, you can double the ingredients and bake it in two separate pans or one very large roasting pan.
What if my kugel is browning too quickly?
If the top gets too dark before the center is set, loosely cover the pan with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time.