German Culture

All about Germany

Climate In Germany

Although located mostly at latitudes north of the United States-Canadian border and thus closer to the Arctic Circle than to the equator, Germany's climate is moderate and is generally without sustained periods of cold or heat. Northwestern and coastal Germany have a maritime climate caused by warm westerly winds from the North Sea; the climate is … [Read more...]

The Reunification of Germany and Its Aftermath

The East German and West German economies at the time of unification looked very similar. They both concentrated on industrial production, especially machine tools, chemicals, automobiles, and precision manufactures. Both had a well-trained labor force and an important export component, although their exports went largely in opposite directions. … [Read more...]

Christmas traditions in Germany

Christmas (Weihnachten) is considered to be the most important of the major holidays in Germany. Not only the holiday itself, but also the weeks leading up to the celebration of Christmas involve many traditions and customs. Christmas preparations in Germany begin from 1st of December as people bake spiced cakes, gingerbread houses and cookies, … [Read more...]

Kartoffelklöße (German Potato Dumplings)

Few dishes capture the soul of German comfort food like Kartoffelklöße, also known as German potato dumplings. These round, hearty delights are a cornerstone of traditional German cuisine - served at festive meals, Sunday roasts, and cozy family dinners. With a perfectly pillowy texture and subtle, earthy flavor, Kartoffelklöße are the perfect … [Read more...]

Beef Rouladen

Rouladen or Rinderrouladen is a German meat dish, usually consisting of bacon, onions and pickles wrapped in thinly sliced beef which is then cooked. Ingredients: 4 large, sweet onions, sliced 3 tbsp olive oil 4 lb (1.8 kg) beef top round, cut into 6 mm by 20 cm long slices, pounded until tender 1 tsp paprika sea salt whole black … [Read more...]

Black Forest Chicken Cordon Bleu

Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, butterflied 1/4 tsp paprika 1/2 tsp granulated garlic 1/4 tsp each sea salt and freshly ground whole black peppercorns 4 slices German Limburger cheese, rind removed 8 slices German Black Forest ham 1 cup flour 4 eggs, beaten 1 cup bread crumbs fresh flat-leaf parsley (optional) Directions: … [Read more...]

How to Saw a Log

This is the first thing a newly-wed couple in Germany has to do immediately after they have gone out of the church. Difficulty Level: Hard Time Required: varies Here's How: Step out of the church with a happy smile on your face like all newly-weds do until they see a huge log waiting for them. Come close to the log (it should be placed on a … [Read more...]

How to Win a German’s Favor

It is very important for a stranger to be accepted in German society. Study the following rules, use your intuition, think of all the good things you were taught in your childhood, and good luck! Difficulty Level: Hard Time Required: 2 hours Here's How: Be on time (at least do your best not to be late). Take off your shoes at the front … [Read more...]

How to Pronounce German Consonants l and r Correctly

Most consonants in German are pronounced differently than in English. It is quite obvious with the consonants l and r. Difficulty Level: Average Time Required: 20 min Here's How: Pronouncing l (like in "million"), place the tip of the tongue to the ridge behind the upper teeth. Flatten it to produce the German l sound which is much lighter … [Read more...]

How to Cook Sauerbraten

Don't let the long cooking time scare you away. This authentic German dish will win your heart ... after you have cooked it. Difficulty Level: Average Time Required: 3 days Here's How: Mix 2 cups water, 1 cup wine vinegar, 1 tsp salt, 2 onions, 1 carrot, 5 peppercorns, 2 whole cloves, and 1 bay leaf in a large saucepan. Bring the … [Read more...]