Traditional German Food: What to Eat in Germany?

Author: Shrabona Borthakur on Apr 09,2023

Germany is a country located in the heart of Europe, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and delicious cuisine. German cuisine is characterized by its hearty, comforting dishes that often feature meat, potatoes, and bread. Traditional German dishes such as schnitzel, sauerbraten, and sauerkraut are popular not only within the country but around the world. German street foods like currywurst and dner kebab have gained a cult following in recent years, while German desserts like black forest cake and apple strudel are enjoyed by many. German beer is also world-famous, with a long history and a wide variety of styles to choose from. Overall, German cuisine is a reflection of the country's rich history and diverse regional influences, making it a unique and flavorful culinary experience.

Traditional Popular German Food Dishes

Germany is known for its rich culinary tradition that has been influenced by centuries of history and cultural diversity. Some of the traditional German dishes are enjoyed not just in Germany but also worldwide. Here are some of the most popular traditional German dishes.

Schnitzel:

Schnitzel is a breaded and pan-fried meat dish that is typically made with pork or veal. The meat is pounded thin, coated in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, and then fried until golden brown. Schnitzel is often served with a side of potato salad, mashed potatoes, or spaetzle.

Sauerbraten:

Sauerbraten is a classic German pot roast that is marinated in a mixture of vinegar, wine, and spices for several days before being cooked. The marinade gives the meat a tangy and slightly sweet flavor. The dish is often served with red cabbage, spaetzle, and boiled potatoes.

Bratwurst:

Bratwurst is a type of German sausage made from pork, beef, or veal. It is typically seasoned with salt, pepper, and nutmeg and grilled or fried. Bratwurst is often served with sauerkraut, mustard, and a side of bread or potato salad.

Sauerkraut:

Sauerkraut is a fermented cabbage dish that is commonly eaten in Germany. The cabbage is shredded and mixed with salt and then left to ferment for several weeks. Sauerkraut is often served as a side dish with bratwurst or schnitzel.

Sptzle:

Sptzle is a type of egg noodle that is similar to Italian pasta. It is made by mixing flour, eggs, and salt and then pushing the dough through a special sptzle press or using a knife to cut small pieces of dough into boiling water. Sptzle is often served with gravy or cheese sauce.

Kartoffelpuffer:

Kartoffelpuffer, also known as potato pancakes, are made from grated potatoes, flour, eggs, and seasoning. The mixture is formed into small pancakes and fried until crispy. Kartoffelpuffer is often served with applesauce or sour cream.

Brezeln:

Brezeln, also known as pretzels, is a type of baked bread that is shaped into a knot. The dough is made from flour, water, yeast, and salt and is boiled before baking to give it a chewy texture. Brezeln is often served as a snack with mustard or cheese.

Popular Fast Food Dishes in Germany

Currywurst:

Currywurst is a classic fast food dish that originated in Germany. It consists of a grilled or fried sausage, typically pork or beef, that is cut into slices and served with a generous amount of curry ketchup. Currywurst can be found at food stands and fast food restaurants all over Germany, and it is often served with a side of French fries or bread.

Dner kebab:

Dner kebab is a popular fast food dish that originated in Turkey, but it has become a staple in German cuisine. It consists of seasoned, grilled meat that is sliced off a rotating spit and served in a pita or flatbread with vegetables and sauces. Dner kebab is a popular late-night snack in Germany, and it can be found at many street food stands and fast food restaurants.

Flammkuchen:

Flammkuchen, also known as tarte flambe, is a German-style pizza that originated in the Alsace region of France. It is a thin, crispy crust that is topped with crme frache, onions, and bacon. Flammkuchen can also be topped with other ingredients, such as mushrooms or cheese. It is a popular fast food dish in Germany and can be found at many bakeries, cafes, and restaurants.

Buletten:

Buletten, also known as Frikadellen, are meatballs that are a popular fast food dish in Germany. They are made with ground meat, typically beef or pork, and are seasoned with herbs and spices. Buletten is often served with a side of potatoes or salad, and they can be found at many fast food restaurants and food stands throughout Germany.

Famous Desserts of Germany

• Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwlder Kirschtorte): This cake is one of the most famous desserts from Germany and is known worldwide. It is a layered cake made with chocolate sponge cake, cherries, and whipped cream, and is typically finished with chocolate shavings and cherries on top.
• Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel): A traditional dessert in Germany, apple strudel is a pastry made with thin layers of dough and filled with spiced apples, raisins, and breadcrumbs. It is typically served warm with a dollop of whipped cream.
• Stollen: A fruitcake made with candied fruit, nuts, and spices, stollen is a traditional German Christmas dessert. It is typically shaped like a loaf and dusted with powdered sugar.
• Lebkuchen: These gingerbread-like cookies are another traditional German Christmas dessert. They are made with honey, spices, and nuts, and are often decorated with icing or sugar.
• Rote Grtze: This dessert is a type of fruit pudding made with red berries such as raspberries, strawberries, and cherries. It is typically served cold with whipped cream.
• Kaiserschmarrn: This is a sweet pancake dish that is often served as a dessert in Germany. It is made with shredded pancakes, raisins, and almonds, and is typically served with fruit compote or applesauce.
• Berliner Pfannkuchen: These are sweet, jelly-filled doughnuts that are a popular dessert in Germany. They are typically dusted with powdered sugar and are enjoyed as a treat throughout the year.

Must-Try Popular German Beverages

Germany is famous for its beer, and rightfully so, as it is one of the most popular beverages in the country. However, there are several other beverages that are also popular in Germany, including wine, schnapps, and herbal teas. Here are some of the most popular beverages in Germany:

Beer:

Germany is famous for its beer, and it is a major part of the country's culture. There are over 1,500 breweries in Germany, producing a wide variety of beers, from light pilsners to dark lagers. Some of the most popular beer styles in Germany include Weissbier (wheat beer), Pilsner, and Oktoberfest beer.

Wine:

While Germany is known for its beer, it is also a major wine-producing country. The most famous wine regions in Germany are Mosel, Rheingau, and Baden. Riesling is the most popular grape variety in Germany, and it is known for producing wines that are crisp, acidic, and often sweet.

Schnapps:

Schnapps is a strong alcoholic beverage that is popular in Germany. It is typically made from fruit, and it can be enjoyed as a digestif or mixed into cocktails. Some popular flavors of schnapps in Germany include apple, cherry, and pear.

Herbal Teas:

Herbal teas are also popular in Germany, especially during the colder months. Some popular herbs used in German teas include chamomile, peppermint, and fennel. Many Germans also enjoy drinking herbal teas as a way to improve their health.

Coffee:

While not traditionally associated with Germany, coffee is also popular in the country. Germans tend to favor strong, dark-roasted coffee, and they often enjoy it with a piece of cake or pastry.

Places to Visit in Germany for the Best Food

Germany is known for its rich culinary culture, and there are many delicious foods to try while visiting. Here are some must-try places in Germany for various types of popular food:

• Currywurst - Curry 36 in Berlin is a popular spot for this iconic German street food. Their currywurst is made with a juicy sausage, topped with a flavorful curry sauce, and served with crispy fries.
• Schnitzel - Gasthaus zur Pfalz in Munich is a great place to try traditional German schnitzel. Their schnitzels are large, and crispy and come in a variety of flavors like veal, pork, and chicken.
• Bratwurst - Nuremberg is famous for its small, savory bratwurst sausages. Try them at Bratwursthausle in Nuremberg, which has been serving up these delicious sausages for over 700 years.
• Pretzels - Head to the Hofbruhaus in Munich for some of the best pretzels in Germany. These oversized, salty pretzels are the perfect snack to enjoy with a cold beer.
• Black Forest Cake - Caf Schfer in Triberg is famous for its traditional Black Forest cake. Made with layers of chocolate sponge cake, whipped cream, and cherries, this dessert is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
• Sptzle - Lwenbrukeller in Munich is a great place to try this traditional German noodle dish. Their sptzle is made with fresh ingredients and is the perfect comfort food on a chilly day.
• Kebabs - Berlin is famous for its Turkish-style kebabs, and Mustafa's Gemse Kebap is one of the most popular spots in the city. Their juicy, flavorful kebabs are served with fresh vegetables and a variety of sauces.
• Beer - Germany is known for its excellent beer, and the Hofbruhaus in Munich is one of the best places to enjoy it. This historic beer hall has been serving up cold, refreshing beer for over 400 years.

Conclusion

Germany is a country with a rich culinary tradition that has influenced many other cuisines around the world. From hearty and filling meals like Schnitzel and Bratwurst to delicate and flavorful dishes like Sptzle and Sauerkraut, German cuisine has something for everyone. The country's emphasis on quality ingredients, traditional preparation methods, and regional specialties make it a food lover's paradise. Whether you are looking for a quick snack from a street vendor or a fine dining experience in a Michelin-starred restaurant, Germany has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. The country's beer culture is also a major draw for visitors, with many breweries producing unique and delicious brews.

FAQs

What is the most popular food item in Germany?

One of the most popular food items in Germany is the traditional dish of sausages, particularly bratwurst.

What is Germany's national dish?

Germany does not have a single national dish, but some popular ones include schnitzel, sauerbraten, bratwurst, and sptzle.

What food and drink are Germany famous for?

Germany is famous for its sausages, sauerkraut, and beer, as well as dishes like schnitzel and sptzle.

What does a typical German breakfast consist of?

A typical German breakfast usually includes bread or rolls with butter, cold cuts, cheese, jam, honey, and coffee or tea. Msli or yogurt may also be served.

What are the 3 major food dishes in Germany?

Three major food dishes in Germany are Schnitzel, Bratwurst, and Sauerkraut.