Into a large bowl, pour flour (3 cups/430 grams), eggs (3 large eggs), salt (1/2 teaspoon, and water (1 cup to 1 ½ cups, 240ml to 360ml). Stir all the ingredients together, forming a medium-stiff batter. Don't over-mix. Let the batter sit while you bring the water to a boil, about 5 minutes.
Cook Dumplings
Pour water into a large pot, add salt and bring water to a boil.
Reduce boiling water to simmer. Place the spaetzle maker over the rim of the pot with simmering water. Press the batter thru the spaetzle maker, dropping dumplings into the water. Stir gently, so the dumplings are not sticking to the bottom of the pan. Increase heat to medium-high. Once the dumplings float on the top, cook for 20 seconds. Collect dumplings using a slotted spoon or a small strainer. Transfer the cooked dumplings into a large colander, and let the excess water drip off.
TIP: Run the dumplings under the hot water to prevent excessive sticking, then drain.
Serve immediately, or sautee dumplings in a bit of butter/olive oil to make them crispy.
Store Dumplings for Later
If you plan on eating them only some at a time, drizzle olive oil over the dumplings and stir gently. Let them cool completely, occasionally tossing them around so they don't stick—once cool, store dumplings in an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave or in the skillet to make them crispy.
Notes
I don't have three eggs; can I use fewer eggs? - Yes, you can use one egg; not a problem. You will have to adjust the water amount so the batter is not too dense. It shouldn't be runny, either.
Can I flavor the batter? - You can flavor batter with herbs, spices, or vegetable purees (use red pepper paste or make broccoli spaetzle).
How long does spaetzle last in the fridge? - You can store dumplings in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
What can I serve with flour dumplings? - Spaetzle/flour dumplings are a great side dish to stews, goulash, chicken paprikash, scrambled egg pasta, or served with veggies, sauteed cabbage, or goat cheese with bacon. The possibilities are endless.