Germany is one of the most developed countries in the world and is a popular destination among people from across the globe. Many career-oriented people come to this country to get jobs or to do business. Besides, it is also an esteemed destination among plenty of international students. Additionally, many tourists also come to Germany to visit significant places in the country.
Whether you are a professional, an international student, or a tourist, one thing that you would like to test in this country is the German cuisine. Like many other aspects of Germany, German cuisine is also popular across the globe among the foodies and other food lovers. Many of those who are not so interested in food also like to taste German cuisine.
Here, you can read all you need to know about German cuisine.
Historical Roots of German Cuisine
German cuisine has evolved over centuries and has got influence from various sources such as its rulers and neighboring countries. Besides, its diverse regional cultures also have a great impact on it.
Some of the aspects of German cuisine were introduced by the Roman Empire, which once ruled over Germany. Besides, the agricultural traditions of Germany are also reflected in the German cuisine and a strong emphasis on bread and potatoes can be seen. In the medieval period, species from the east were introduced, which were considered affordable only to the wealthy once.
Some German Cuisines
Kartoffelsalat (Potato Salad): In Germany, potato salad is a dish commonly found in households, with recipes that differ from area to area, but normally contains boiled potatoes, vinegar, oil, onions, and fresh herbs. In the southern region, it is prepared using a broth and may incorporate ingredients such as cucumber or apple. If you are a student living in student accommodation Darmstadt or any other city, then you must try it when you will go for eating out.
Eintopf: There are many recipes for Eintopf which originally is a meat-based stew, but nowadays many vegetarian options are available and they contain several root vegetables, beans, and occasionally pasta or dumplings.
Pfannkuchen (German Pancakes): Crispy refers to these thin, crepe-like pancakes and can be served both as savory and sweet. They may contain spinach and cheese or mushrooms in the case of the savory filling or apples, cinnamon, or Nutella most probably for the sweet variety.
Rote Grütze: Rote Grütze, a red fruit pudding which is from the Northern part of Germany and is achieved through the preparation of berries including strawberries, raspberries, and red currant. It is often eaten with a topping of vanilla sauce or even whipped cream.
Pretzel Sandwiches: Soft pretzels are a type of popular German snack; they are very versatile and ideal for making vegetarian sandwiches. Some of the fillings used may be cheese, raw vegetables, and sauces such as mustard, or hummus.
Rotkohl (Red Cabbage): It’s an easy and delicious preparation of red cabbage where cabbage is slowly cooked with apples vinegar and seasoning. Many Germans enjoy it with their meal and in many ways and it complements a dish and adds a burst of colors to the plate.
Spargel (Asparagus): While it is commonly served with butter or Hollandaise sauce, it is a great vegetable dish usually eaten by either vegetarians or people who omit meats for other reasons.
Gurkensalat (Cucumber Salad): An enjoyable cooler prepared from cucumbers cut into thin rounds with vinegar and dill at times augmented with sugar or yogurt. It’s light and cooling, especially required to offset heartier main dishes, such as grills or large roasts.
Vegetarian Bratwurst: If you are a vegetarian but want to enjoy the iconic German sausage, then vegetarian bratwurst is the best option for you. It is a perfect plant-based version of the iconic German sausage and it is made from ingredients like soy, seitan, or vegetables, seasoned with traditional spices to capture the authentic bratwurst flavor.
Baked Goods and Desserts
Brezel (Pretzel): The traditional German pretzel known as the Brezel is vegan by nature, and it is prepared from flour, water, and yeast accompanied by a pinch of coarse salt. It is wonderful by itself but when served with mustard it will fit man’s taste.
Apfelstrudel (Apple Strudel): Apple strudel is a famous German sweet snack made of stretched dough spread with spicy apples, raisins, and breadcrumbs. Served typically in cone form, it is taken as is, or with a dash of icing sugar, or perhaps a dollop of vanilla ice cream.
Streuselkuchen (Crumb Cake): This is a very delicious coffee cake and you can use any fruits of your choice ranging from apples, plums, cherries, etc. This has a lovely buttery crumble on top. It is also very commonly taken as a snack whenever people take their break time to take a cup of coffee.