Get ready to try our fantastic recipe for Steamed Bread, also known as Keto Dumplings or Servietenknödel. This fluffy, flavorful creation without filling will delight your taste buds and add an extra touch of charm as a side dish to your meals.
Serve with mushroom soup, goulash stew, sausage gravy or lecso vegetable stew. Add it together with cranberry sauce to your turkey dish.
What is a Dumpling?
Name dumpling is a very broad specification of the type of dough made from flour, potato, or bread, shaped into various shapes, filled or not filled, cooked, steamed, or baked. You name it.
Every country in the whole world has got their variation of dumplings. I have also made another version of this bread recipe. These keto dumplings are shaped like small balls perfect for soups and as a side dish.
They start from Africa and their ever-popular Banku, through Asia with Manti and Wonton, Indian Ada and Fara, Japanese Dango, Mongolian Buuz, Nepali Momos, Latin America Empanadas, Eastern Europeans Knödel or Knedliky, Arabic Kibbeh or Israeli Kreplach.
Every country has its type of dumplings, sweet or savory.
Even in my country, the bread dumplings I am making today have slightly different variations in each region of Slovakia.
The one we are making today is one of the most popular Eastern European dumplings, looking like a loaf of bread and serving as a side dish with various gravy dishes.
What is a Steamed Bread?
I realized only after posting this recipe that so many people call it steam bread. I have no idea why this did not come to my mind before. I guess, not being an English native, you try and come up with complicated names. So, this bread is also called steamed bread.
Steamed bread is very popular not only in the US but also in northern China.
Is This the Same as Chinese Steamed Buns Bao or Mantou Recipe?
No, these steamed bread dumplings differ from Chinese steamed buns like Bao or Mantou. While they share a steaming method, this is a distinct Eastern European recipe. The dough ingredients and texture vary, resulting in a unique taste and appearance compared to the Chinese counterparts.
What is Servietenknödel?
Servietenknödel is a knödel – dumpling type bread-looking side dish translated as a napkin dumpling.
The name napkin comes from the way those dumplings are steamed or cooked. Typically wrapped into a cloth napkin, they are steamed to hold the shape. Their softness and lightness make those dumplings irresistible. You slice them with a string to protect the softness.
You should try and make them at least once in your life. The taste is unbeatable.
Our bread dumplings are incredibly soft and perfect to get you the identical taste, look and feel of a real servietenknödel.
A piece of this keto dumpling soaks up so much sauce you would not believe it.
Therefore, it is trendy to serve it with dishes containing lots of sauce or gravy.
What Are German Knödel or Dumplings Usually Made Of?
Knödel is usually made with either potatoes, flour, or pieces of bread.
Each region might prefer a specific texture over the others.
Our variation, servietenknödel, is traditionally made with yeast, wrapped into a cloth napkin and steamed or cooked.
They are also perfect for a breakfast with eggs, just like our eggy bread is.
Keto Bread Dumpling
Do you wonder how and from what I called them?
It was challenging for me to name this dish. So, to explain the whole process of calling our servietenknödel.
My name comes from the bread-looking knödel. I did not want to call them a napkin dumpling. And I refused to call them any other strange name. So they are bread-looking dumpling loaf.
And I even found one company called Chateau in the US selling them frozen. But they are a regular bread dumplings. Not the keto ones like ours.
How to Make Steamed Bread?
This keto bread dumpling, softly steamed to perfection, is a great side dish for your keto gravy, roasted duck or goose. This gluten-free, grain-free, low-carb keto steamed bread Is the fluffiest, lightest, and softest to soak your sauce like no other.
Kitchen Gadgets Needed:
Ingredients You Need:
- Eggs
- Almond Flour
- Mozarella
- Baking Powder
- Coconut Oil
- Coconut Flour
- Psyllium Husk
- Almond Milk
*Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO MAKE STEAMED BREAD
Let us dive into the complete instructions to learn how to make this delicious steamed bread. For those who like visual instructions, please refer to the video I have made for you.
First step: Prepare Ingredients
Prepare all of the ingredients together.
Second Step: Mix Eggs
Using your hand blender or a stand mixer, mix all of the eggs until fluffy.
Third Step: Add Other Ingredients
Add all other ingredients and thoroughly mix into one dough. It may still be liquid, but psyllium will slowly work its way into it.
Fourth Step: Fridge
Place the bowl into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. At this time, the psyllium will slowly thicken the whole dough, and it will be much easier to work with later on.
Fifth Step: Shape
Take the bowl out of the fridge and check the thickness. It has to be thick enough for you to be able to form a loaf. If the dough is still pretty soft, sprinkle it with additional coconut flour and mix it thoroughly.
Place a parchment paper on the kitchen counter and lightly spray it with oil. Also, spray your hands with oil and start shaping the loaf. Roll the dough into a longer loaf shape, let the dough sit on the counter, and rest for 10 minutes.
Sixth Step: Steam
Once you are happy with the shape, prepare the steamer. If you do not own the steamer, that is fine. Take the biggest pot you have and add water to the bottom. Bring the water to a boil and add a steaming stand. You can also use a trivet from your instant pot or any that fits into the large pot. Add parchment paper on top of it and spray it with oil.
Slowly add the bread dumpling loaf, cover the lid and let it cook or steamed for 20 minutes.
Seventh Step: Cut
Once the loaf is steamed, gently remove the bread from the steamer and cut it into the bread-like slices using a thread or twine.
Serve hot with your dish.
TIPS AND TRICKS:
- Cutting – To slice our steamed bread, use twine or thread. Place it underneath the dumpling and wrap it around the top and across as if you will tighten it. Pull it tight, cutting the thick slice and continue with other slices the same way.
- Coconut Flour – Use coconut flour to thicken the dough to your liking. One tablespoon is enough in our case, but if you still feel that the dough is not able to form into a log, add half or one spoon of coconut flour. Learn more about almond flour vs. coconut flour.
- Oil – Spray your hand with either oil or water to form the dough. This will prevent the dough from sticking into your hands. Also spray the bottom of the parchment paper to prevent the bread dumpling from sticking to the paper while steaming.
- Cover – Once the loaf is steamed, spray it lightly with oil and cover it with a cloth or aluminum foil to prevent drying.
If you are looking for something similarly soft and fluffy but more for bread or hamburger, look at this white bread.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
How Do I Cut Keto Steamed Bread?
Because this servietenknödel or a steamed bread dumpling loaf is so soft and fluffy, cutting it with a knife is not advisable. The blade will push the slices in, and they will be too compressed.
The best way to cut knödel is with a thread or twine. Have a look at the video for a better understanding.
Holding the thread with both hands, gently slide it underneath the loaf.
Wrap the thread together as if you are going to tighten it. Pull on each side until the thread gets through the whole slice, and will gently slice the loaf. Continue the same steps for additional pieces.
What to Serve the Keto Steamed Bread With?
This steamed bread is perfect for soaking gravy and, therefore very popular with dishes that contain sauce and roasted meats such as duck, goose, pork, turkey, or chicken.
This creamy Tuscan chicken is a great example.
- Serve it with sausage sauerkraut as a great addition to an Eastern European dish
- Serve it with sugar-free cranberry sauce and turkey
- Use them with gravy for your dinner.
- I also like it served hot with a lavender tea for a fresh breakfast.
Can I Make Smooth Steamed Buns Recipe with This?
You can adapt this dough for smooth steamed buns by dividing the dough into smaller portions. To make steamed buns is super easy as well. Shape them into smaller dough balls and steam the buns, the same as the recipe states.
Can I Add Filling After I Make the Dough?
While you can add fillings to this dough, it’s more common when shaping it into smaller buns, like dumplings. It provides a delightful surprise within each bite and enhances the overall experience of the dish.
Can I Add Yeast Into the Mixture?
You can add dry yeast or instant yeast to the mixture before kneading the dough. Yeast can help enhance the flavor and texture of your bread dumplings, giving them a lighter and fluffier consistency. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. They will not double in size, but this can be an excellent option for those who enjoy the subtle tang of yeast in their dumplings.
What Can I Do with The Leftover Keto Bread Dumpling?
One popular recipe in Eastern Europe is to cut the knödel into small squares. Roast them slightly on a pan and add two mixed eggs and a bit of seasoning. It is a perfect breakfast or dinner option. Some might add ham or bacon to it as well.
How Do I Store Keto Napkin Knödel?
Once you store the finished steamed bread, spray it lightly with oil to prevent dryness and cover it in a cling or aluminum foil. Place it into the fridge for up to 3 days.
You certainly can, and I do this all the time. Cover it with parchment paper or aluminum foil and place it as a loaf into the freezer. Freeze it for up to 6 months.
How to De-Freeze Keto Knödel?
Take them out of the freezer the night before, and let them thaw slowly, and naturally in the refrigerator.
How to Reheat the Keto Bread Dumplings?
Once ready to serve, slice them with a string and place them into a steamer.
You can also place them into the microwave, but they will harden on the edges and dry a bit. Therefore, the steaming method works the best.
More Keto Bread Recipes
Explore the culinary world with more of our delicious bread recipes.
Savor the richness of our brioche bread, perfect for sweet cravings or breakfast.
Try our hearty farmer’s bread for a rustic and satisfying slice. Our almond flour bread is a nutritious choice if you’re on a low-carb journey.
And take advantage of our sweet and soft challah bread, a fantastic addition to any occasion.
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Steamed Bread – Keto Dumplings – Servietenknödel
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 Eggs
- 2 Tablespoons Mozzarella
- 10 Tablespoons Almond Flour
- 1,5 Tablespoons Psyllium Husk
- 1 Tablespoon Coconut Oil
- 2 Tablespoons Almond Milk
- 1-2 Tablespoon Coconut Flour
Instructions
- Prepare all of the ingredients together
- Using your hand blender or a stand mixer, mix all of the eggs until fluffy.
- Add all other ingredients and fully mix into one dough. This might still be a bit liquid but psyllium will slowly starts working its way into it.
- Place the bowl into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. In this time the psyllium will slowly thicken the whole dough and it will be much easier to work with later on.
- Take the bowl out of the fridge and check the thickness. It has to be thick enough for you to be able to form a loaf. If you do feel, the dough is still pretty soft, sprinkle it with some additional coconut flour and mix fully in.
- Place a parchment paper on the kitchen counter and sightly spray it with oil. Also spray both of your hand with oil and start shaping the loaf. Once you are happy with the shape, prepare the steamer. If you do not own the steamer, that is not a problem. Take the biggest pot you have and add a bit of water on the bottom. Let it boil and add a steaming stand. You can also use also a trivet from your instant Pot or any which fits into the pot. Add parchment paper on top of it and spray it with oil. Slowly add the bread dumpling loaf, cover the lid and let it cook or steamed for 20 minutes.
- Once the loaf is steamed, gently remove the bread from the steamer and cut it into the bread-like slices using a thread or twine. Serve hot with your dish.
Video
Notes
- Cutting – To slice our steamed bread, use twine or thread. Place it underneath the dumpling and wrap it around the top and across as if you will tighten it. Pull it tight, cutting the thick slice and continue with other slices the same way.
- Coconut Flour – Use coconut flour to thicken the dough to your liking. One tablespoon is enough in our case, but if you still feel that the dough is not able to form into a log, add half or one spoon of coconut flour. Learn more about almond flour vs. coconut flour.
- Oil – Spray your hand with either oil or water to form the dough. This will prevent the dough from sticking into your hands. Also spray the bottom of the parchment paper to prevent the bread dumpling from sticking to the paper while steaming.
- Cover – Once the loaf is steamed, spray it lightly with oil and cover it with a cloth or aluminum foil to prevent drying.
Nutrition
Disclaimer
Please note that nutrient values are estimates only. Variations can occur due to product availability and manner of food preparation. Nutrition may vary based on methods of origin, preparation, freshness of ingredients, and other factors.
If you are still looking for some Low Carb products, visit our recommended site on Amazon, which we participate in as affiliates. Just click on the image below and all will be revealed.
Keto & Low Carb Bread Recipes
Recipes for keto and low-carb bread for you to enjoy. They’re gluten-free, grain-free, and perfect for diabetics.
Hello Zuzana
I love this place idea and will make it to go with turkey stew after Christmas. Have you ever made the dumplings using a small cookie scoop and Cooke in GENTLY boiling broth or steamed in small portions?
This looks like a keeper. I also make your keiser rolls. Thanks. Have a great holiday?
Dear Sheron,
I do make small dumplings, but with a different recipe which I am one day hopefully, be able to post in here as well. But it is a great idea with this recipe as well. I have to try it for sure.
Happy you like my Kaiser Rolls as well.
Has anyone made this in an Instant Pot with the Steam function?
This looks so so so yummy!!!!
Thank you for making this recipe.
Debbie, great idea. I will for sure try it next time. But just in case you do first, please do let me know how it went. I am sure it will work.
Looks so fluffy and delicious! Never heard of bread dumpling but that’s such a fun name.
I’ve never heard of this type of bread before. It sounds delicious though!
I can’t believe these are keto, they are perfect!
Six weeks into keto and I am really missing bread. I have to try this!
You will for sure love it Linda
You had me at fluffiest, lightest, softest bread! Looks great and no yeast used either which I find hard to digest.
Couple questions: Almond meal, not almond flour? Psyllium husk powder or just husk? Thanks.
Here in Europe, you can find also almond flour, which is unfattened and very dry. Almost like a coconut flour is. I use for all of the recipes just plain ground almonds without the ski – white. But I guess if it is not unfattened, then Almond Flour would be perfect.
Omg these are amazing!!! Thank you!! Made them with Svickova for Xmas eve dinner
Svieckova – the best to go with those Knedle.
Can I omit the mozzarela? Or sub by other ingredient?
Mozzarella is a great choice because of very light flavor. You can probably try another cheese variation.
Hi Zuzana, I was eager to try this dumpling, as I as diabetic cannot eat the commercially sold (and in restaurants served) dumplings (they always make my glucose skyrocket, even those made of potatoes). I was trying to do it with half portion of ingredients, initially, it was too sticky (as all kinds of keto dough I tried) but to omit this, after steaming, it got nicely fluffy (increased volume – I was happy) bu after cooling, it lost more volume than it got during steaming, so I have only a flat dough. I’m not sure what I did wrong, ingredients were kept, I added bit more coconut flour as it was not thick enough.
I have no idea what could have caused this since there is not even a baking powder. Check for the video, incase you might have missed some steps. Maybe let the dough rest a bit before steaming. It should not really increase in size while steaming ( it gets more like fluffier).
Do these need to be steamed? or can they be boiled? I’m really excited to try these!
I have not tried boiling them but do not see why not. Original steamed bread can also be either steamed or cooked. The only disadvantage you might have is, that the the consistency might be a big more dense.
This recipe looks lovely! Can you please let me know if you use (unground/plain) psyllium husks or if you use powdered psyllium husks? I have read that it makes a difference in the final product.
Thank you for your recipes, and valuable input!
I have used grounded Psyllium
@Zuzana,
You have not listed the ingredient amounts for the steamed bread/dumplings!
Sorry if you have but I cannot find them.
Thanks Lynne
They are listed with the amounts in the recipe card towards the end of the post.