Spatzle is one of the simplest types of noodles to make, basically a free-form cut or pressed egg dough dropped into boiling water. They just beg to be drowned in thick gravy.

• 4 cups flour
• 1 t salt
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup water

Mix dry ingredients. Whisk together eggs, milk and water. Stir into dry ingredients. Beat with a wooden spoon, then let rest. Push through a spatzle maker (a metal pan with round holes in the bottom) or cut into salted boiling water.

Cook 8 minutes. Drain and place in bowl of cold water. Dry on paper towels and saute with butter.