German Culture

All about Germany

Zimtsterne – Cinnamon Stars

Among all the irresistible Christmas cookies baked across Germany during Advent, few are as iconic, aromatic, and unmistakably festive as Zimtsterne - the beautifully shaped German Cinnamon Stars. With their snowy white icing, deep almond flavor, and warm notes of cinnamon, these star-shaped cookies capture the magic of the holiday season in a … [Read more...]

Bavarian Beer Roasted Pork

This is the ultimate roast – Bavarian beer roasted pork, also known as Bayerischer Schweinebraten or Krustenbraten - tender, juicy meat and crunchy crackling on top, perfectly roasted and crispy. This is hearty, honest autumn food, for those cold nights after a long walk out in the countryside. Ingredients: 1500 g / 3.5 pounds of pork, … [Read more...]

Käsekuchen (German Cheesecake)

This German cheesecake is a bit lighter than its American cousin. The filling is made with low-fat quark instead of cream cheese and egg foam is folded into the filling to give it a slightly fluffy consistency. Lemon and vanilla give the filling a fresh flavor. Ingredients: Crust 250 g all-purpose flour 125 g butter pinch of salt 30 … [Read more...]

Jägerspätzle

You don’t need to travel to Munich to eat this traditional German dish called Jägerspätzle. This Bavarian classic is often served at the Oktoberfest and makes for a seriously exciting family dinner - at any time of the year. Ingredients: For the Spätzle: 2 1/2 cups flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/3 cup water 1/3 cup milk 3 eggs butter for … [Read more...]

Schlachtplatte

This is a feast for a crowd of friends. Prepare the sauerkraut (recipe follows) and a variety of sausages and meats. You may grill or fry the sausages or you may wish to cook some or all of the meats and sausages in the sauerkraut. Ingredients: Smoked pork chops Bratwurst Bauernwurst Knackwurst Wieners Nürnberger Bratwurst Blood … [Read more...]

Sauerkraut Martini

This cocktail is polarizing. It's one of those "love-it" or "hate-it" things. And don't think you only have to drink it during Oktoberfest — it's just that people are far more affectionate toward pickled cabbage during this time of year. This tart and briny cocktail is only good when it's ice cold, so get your Bond on and shake it with lots of ice … [Read more...]

Sunken Apple Cake (Versunkener Apfelkuchen)

There are countless apple cakes in Germany, but this one, in which a rather plain batter rises up and bakes around sliced apples, has to be one of the most popular. Cakes like these are often called Mittwochskuchen (Wednesday cakes) because they can easily be made during the week when time is short. Ingredients: 3 medium apples 1/2 … [Read more...]

Sausage and Sauerkraut Pockets (Würstchen & Sauerkraut-Taschen)

Phyllo pastry is very similar to German Strudel pastry and can be used in the same ways. These savory snacks can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving so they are warm and crisp. Ingredients: 4 large sheets phyllo dough (10 x 12 inches) 2 3/4 ounces butter, melted 2 Bratwurst or Bockwurst sausages, grilled and chopped 10 oz Sauerkraut, … [Read more...]

Potato Skins stuffed with Bratwurst, Beer-Caramelized Onions and Sauerkraut

Early fall in Germany means Oktoberfest. So get together and celebrate with delicious savory food like stuffed potato skins and cold flowing beer! Ingredients: • 4 russet potatoes, scrubbed and dried • Canola oil • salt • black pepper • 2 Bratwurst sausage links, sliced into circles • 2 large onions, quartered and sliced thinly • ½ cup … [Read more...]

Beer Bratwurst Braised with Onions and Apples

Few dishes capture the essence of rustic German comfort food quite like Beer Bratwurst Braised with Onions and Apples. With its savory bratwurst, sweet apples, and malty beer broth, this dish delivers a perfect balance of heartiness and flavor. A mainstay at family dinners, fall festivals, and of course, Oktoberfest, this recipe highlights the … [Read more...]