Linsen mit Spätzle
Linsen mit Spätzle (lentils with Swabian pasta), normally accompanied with wiener sausages, is a traditional Swabian dish that is by many Swabians considered the Swabian national meal in the southwestern region of Germany.
 Linsen mit Spätzle with typical sausage accompaniment | |
| Course | Main course |
|---|---|
| Place of origin | Germany |
| Region or state | Swabia |
| Serving temperature | Hot |
| Main ingredients | Egg noodles, lentils, sausage |
History
The dish originated—like many typically Swabian dishes—as a meal for the poor. While meat was too expensive for the major part of the Swabian population, lentils were a popular and nutritious staple food which could be stored during winter. Lentils are also a crop that can be produced even on soils of low nutrient content in the region. The combination of wheat and egg and lentils is a good source of protein with high biological value.
Today this winter dish is on the menu of many traditional Swabian restaurants. Aside from that, it is a popular meal in company staff canteens and university cafeterias. It is also a popular dish for cooking at home.