Today is the 333rd day in the year in the Gregorian calendar. It is also the 427th anniversary of the death of Philipp Nicodemus Frischlin.
Frischlin was a German poet, playwright, mathematician, and astronomer. He became known for his play, Rebecca, which he read to emperor Maximilian II. Maximilian rewarded him with the laureateship, and in 1577 made him an imperial count palatine or Pfalzgraf.
Because he was outspoken about his opinions, his criticism of the bourgeoisie and aristocracy eventually led to his arrest and imprisonment. While attempting to escape the window of his cell, he fell and died.
In honor of Frischlin’s birthplace of Wtirttemberg, here is a traditional recipe for potato noodles.
Badische Schupfnudeln
- 1 1/2 pounds russet potatoes
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg
- 1 tbs chopped parsley
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (you can substitute mace if you prefer)
- 1/4 cup lard or other cooking fat
- Place whole potatoes in their skins into a large pot of boiling water; boil for 25 to 30 minutes. Remove potatoes, and discard water. When cool enough to handle, peel potatoes, and place on a lightly floured surface. Mash potatoes.
- Place mashed potatoes into a large bowl. Stir in flour, egg, parsley, salt, and nutmeg. Knead well to form a smooth dough. Then roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/2 inch. Cut flattened dough into thin strips, about 1 1/2 inches long. Gently roll out the strips, or stretch them until the ends taper. Set aside for 15 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat lard over medium heat. Place the potato strips into the skillet, and fry until golden brown on both sides.
Learn more about Philipp Nicodemus Frischlin:
