What is the traditional spice in spaetzle?

Nutmeg is the traditional spice used in spaetzle, a type of egg noodle originating from Germany. The inclusion of nutmeg adds a warm and slightly sweet flavor that complements the dish, enhancing its overall taste profile. Spaetzle is often served as a side dish or as a base for various hearty sauces, and the subtle aromatic quality of nutmeg works well with the simplicity of the pasta.

The use of other spices such as cinnamon, thyme, or parsley does not align with traditional recipes for spaetzle. While thyme and parsley might be found in some variations or accompaniments, they are not characteristic of the spaetzle itself. Cinnamon is generally not used in savory pasta dishes and tends to be more associated with sweet preparations. Thus, nutmeg retains its place as the spice that defines the traditional flavor of spaetzle.