Kartoffelklöße
The English phrase "potato dumplings" is translated into German as Kartoffelklöße.
Kartoffelklöße refers to balls made from mashed or grated potatoes that are boiled and served as a side dish.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound of Kartoffel (potato) and Klöße (dumplings).
Which one should you use?
If the context of a meal is already established, you may simply use Klöße to refer to these potato dumplings. For smaller versions of the dumplings, you can use the diminutive form Kartoffelklößchen.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some regions, particularly in Southern Germany and Austria, a similar potato-based dough product is called Schupfnudeln, though these are often pan-fried rather than boiled.
How does it change in a sentence?
The diminutive form Kartoffelklößchen can be used to refer to smaller versions of the dumplings.
Did you know?
- In certain regions, the phrase einen Kloß im Hals haben is used to describe the feeling of being unable to speak because you are about to cry.
- Historically, the potato was viewed with suspicion in Germany, and Kartoffelklöße only became a staple after Frederick the Great promoted the crop in the 18th century.
- In some German dialects, calling someone a Kloß is a way to describe them as a clumsy or slow-witted person.
Examples in context
- Es gibt in Bayern vielerlei Sorten von Kartoffelklößen.There are many varieties of potato dumplings in Bavaria.The first sentence shows how to express that many varieties of Kartoffelklöße exist in Bavaria.Tatoeba #2580889 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #2580868 by Hybrid
- Heute haben wir Kartoffelklöße gegessen.Today we ate potato dumplings.The second sentence is a simple way to say that you ate Kartoffelklöße today.Tatoeba #5456162 by raggione, translation #5458311 by Dejo
- Die Kartoffelklöße schmecken wirklich ausgezeichnet.The potato dumplings taste truly excellent.
Example conversation
Julian and Hannah are having dinner at a traditional German restaurant.
- JulianMöchtest du meine Kartoffelklöße probieren?Do you want to try my potato dumplings?
- HannahJa gerne, sie sehen sehr lecker aus.Yes please, they look very delicious.
- JulianSie sind heute besonders weich.They are particularly soft today.
- HannahDas stimmt, sie sind perfekt!That's true, they are perfect!
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
