Cooking up a warm and hearty meal to comfort your soul doesn’t have to be complicated. If you’re craving something cozy and satisfying, look no further than Kasnocken. Originating from Austria, Kasnocken are a delightful twist on traditional macaroni and cheese, featuring tender egg noodles tossed in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with crispy onions. This recipe is perfect for chilly evenings when you want a dish that’s both simple to prepare and truly comforting. Let’s get started on creating this delicious Austrian classic!
**Kasnocken**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound egg noodles
– 2 cups shredded Emmental cheese
– 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
– 2 cups milk
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 small onion, finely sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped chives for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Egg Noodles**
– Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the egg noodles until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Cheese Sauce**
– In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the flour and whisk constantly for about 2 minutes to create a roux.
– Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Allow the mixture to simmer and thicken for about 5 minutes.
– Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded Emmental and Gruyere cheeses until they melt and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Combine the Noodles and Sauce**
– Add the cooked egg noodles to the cheese sauce and toss to coat the noodles evenly.
4. **Crispy Onion Topping**
– In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they are golden brown and crispy, about 10-12 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning.
5. **Serve Warm**
– Serve the Kasnocken hot, topped with the crispy onions for a delicious contrast in texture and flavor. Garnish with chopped chives for a touch of freshness if desired.
Enjoy your homemade Kasnocken, a delightful blend of creamy cheese goodness, tender noodles, and crunchy onions. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or when you want to impress your family and friends with a taste of Austrian comfort food. Pair it with a crisp green salad or a glass of your favorite white wine to complete the meal. Have fun preparing and savoring this heartwarming dish that will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection.
