An internal combustion engine having an intake channel that opens into a crankcase. A first fuel channel opens into the intake channel to supply fuel thereto as a function of underpressure in the intake channel. An auxiliary channel opens into a transfer channel that fluidically connects a crankcase to the combustion chamber. A second fuel channel opens into the auxiliary channel and is connected to a storage reservoir for fuel. At least one valve controls the quantity of fuel to be supplied to the engine via the auxiliary channel. Largely fuel-free air is supplied to the engine via the intake channel during idling. During a first revolution of the crankshaft, fuel is supplied via the auxiliary channel, so that a combustible mixture can form in the combustion chamber. During a second revolution, largely fuel-free air is supplied via the auxiliary channel and the combustion chamber is scavenged with largely fuel-free air.