German Culture

All about Germany

German Blitz Torte

This German Blitz Torte recipe is such a quick and easy cake to make. Even though this recipe looks long and complicated, it isn't. Blitz means lightning or with lightning speed, and that's what this cake is - speedy to make. For something even more special, add strawberries or other berries to the filling. Decorate this German Blitz Torte with … [Read more...]

Berliner Pfannkuchen (German Doughnut)

Known as Pfannkuchen in Berlin, Kreppel in Hessen, Krapfen in Southern Germany and Berliner just about everywhere else (excluding various dialectical variations), the jelly-filled donut, the cause of much unintended mirth when John F. Kennedy famously declared 'Ich bin ein Berliner' is a quintessential culinary component of Germany's carnival … [Read more...]

Grebbel (Fried Dough)

Grebbel is deep-fried dough, something like a doughnut, which is fried and then served with powdered sugar sprinkled on it, while still warm. Ingredients: 1⁄2 cup soft butter (no substitute) 1⁄2 pint sour cream (do not use fat free or low fat) 4 eggs, beaten 4 cups flour 1⁄4 teaspoon baking soda 2 teaspoons baking powder 2 tablespoons … [Read more...]

Rahmschnitzel

This chop is covered in a cream sauce, with lots of freshly ground pepper. Rahm is the German for cream. Ingredients: 4 veal schnitzel (alternatively pork) salt and pepper to taste 2 tbsp flour 2 tbsp clarified butter 1/2 cup white wine, dry 200 ml heavy cream 2 tbsp creme fraiche, optional lemon pepper to taste 1 tbsp parsley, … [Read more...]

Gurkensalat (German Cucumber Salad)

Homemade cucumber salad is a refreshing companion to any main dish, be it meat or fish, which is especially popular in summer. This simple German classic can be prepared with different dressings. Whether classic with vinegar or creamy with sour cream and dill, it's a winner! Ingredients: 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced 1 small onion, diced Vinegar … [Read more...]

German Bratwurst Sauerkraut Casserole with Pretzels

Hearty, meaty chunks of German bratwurst are simmered in beer and caraway before being combined with pieces of soft, flavorful pretzel rolls. Next, they're mixed with tangy sauerkraut, stone ground mustard, and lots and lots of Swiss cheese before being smothered in an egg, milk and mustard mixture and then baked to a delicious golden … [Read more...]

Schweineschnitzel (German Pork Schnitzel)

Schnitzel is the quintessential German dish.  Every tourist to Germany has had Schnitzel and most fall in love with it.  Some people associate Schnitzel with Wienerschnitzel.  “Wienerschnitzel” is actually a geographically protected term in Germany and Austria and can only be made with veal.  This traditional German Schnitzel is prepared the same … [Read more...]

Good Friday – Karfreitag

Many people in Germany mark the crucifixion of Jesus by participating in church services and processions on Good Friday (Karfreitag), which is two days before Easter Sunday. For others, it is the start of a long weekend and possibly a spring vacation. Good Friday is a public holiday in all German states. Post offices, banks, stores and other … [Read more...]

Wiener Schnitzel in Lemon Sauce

A staple of German cuisine with a brightly flavored sauce.  A lemon dill sauce highlights the traditional lemon flavor often paired with schnitzel, but also adds the poignant flavor of dill. Best served with homemade Spätzle.  Spätzle is a traditional German pasta dumpling made from eggs, milk, and flour and is the perfect hearty accompaniment for … [Read more...]

Erbsensuppe mit Würstchen (Split Pea and Sausage Soup)

This is a truly nourishing soup – high in protein, fiber and flavor. It’s also very versatile because not only can you serve it as an appetizer, it also makes a wholesome light meal with a chunk of German rye, linseed or sunflower seed bread. Make it with green split peas and chopped fried bacon. You can use either beef, chicken or vegetable broth … [Read more...]