Capuns (Switzerland)

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Capuns are a traditional Swiss dish originating from the canton of Graubünden. The dish consists of dumplings made from Spätzli dough (a soft egg noodle dough), typically mixed with small pieces of dried meat such as Salsiz (a type of Swiss dried sausage).

Capuns are hearty, flavorful, and often served as a main course, especially in Alpine regions. The dish reflects the rustic and resourceful culinary traditions of Swiss mountain communities.

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Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the dough:

• 300g (10 oz) Plain white flour

• 2 eggs

• 2.5dl (8 fl oz) milk-water (1/2 water, 1/2 milk)

• 150g (5 oz) Salsiz or salami (dried sausage)

• 50g (2 oz) Gruyère cheese (or parmesan)

• Bunch parsley

• Salt and pepper

  
  

For the filling:

• 500g (17 oz) swiss chard leaves (16-20 leaves)

For the broth:

• 200ml (7 fl oz) vegetable or meat broth

• 250ml (8 fl oz) heavy cream

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Instructions

Prepare the dough:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, eggs, milk, and water to form a thick yet slightly sticky dough.

• Stir in the finely chopped dried meat, graded cheese and parsley.

• Season with salt and pepper.

Prepare the chard leaves:

• Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the chard leaves for 1-2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to ice-cold water to stop the cooking process.

• Pat the leaves dry and remove the thick stems for easier rolling.

Assemble the Capuns:

• Lay each chard leaf flat on a cutting board. Place a tablespoon of dough in the center of each leaf and gently fold the sides in, then roll it up tightly, securing the filling inside.

Cook the Capuns:

• In a large pot, combine the broth and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper and bring it to a gentle simmer.

• Carefully add the Capuns to the simmering broth and cook for 20–25 minutes, ensuring they are fully submerged. The chard leaves should be tender, and the dough should cook through.

Serve:

• Once cooked, serve the Capuns warm in the broth. Optionally, sprinkle some grated cheese or fresh herbs on top for extra flavor.