CNN — German food is known for its richness, heartiness, and diversity. It incorporates high-quality ingredients, often sourced locally. The cuisine of Germany has been influenced not only by the country’s agricultural traditions but also by the immigrants who have made Germany their home over the centuries. It is much more than just beer, sauerkraut, and sausage. Today, Germans appreciate both well-prepared meals and quick snacks on the go. Germany offers a variety of food markets, beer gardens, wine festivals, food museums, and high-end restaurants. So, are you hungry now? Check out our list of 20 traditional German dishes that you must try when you visit.
1. Königsberger Klopse: This dish, named after the former East Prussian capital of Königsberg, consists of meatballs in a creamy white sauce with capers. The meatballs are made with minced veal, onion, eggs, anchovies, pepper, and spices. The capers and lemon juice in the sauce add an elegant touch to this comforting meal. While it was once renamed “kochklopse” in the German Democratic Republic, it can now be found in most German restaurants, especially in Berlin and Brandenburg.
2. Maultaschen: These dumplings from Swabia are similar to ravioli but larger. They are filled with a range of ingredients, both savory and sweet, and can be vegetarian or meat-based. A popular combination is minced meat, bread crumbs, onions, spinach, salt, pepper, and parsley. They can be simmered in broth or pan-fried and buttered. Maultaschen can be found all over Germany, particularly in the southern regions. They are considered a regional specialty of Baden-Württemberg.
3. Labskaus: This dish may not be visually appealing, but it represents the seafaring traditions of northern Germany. Labskaus consists of salted beef, onions, potatoes, and pickled beetroot mashed together into a porridge-like consistency. It is served with pickled gherkins and rollmops. While it can be found all over northern Germany, it is especially popular in Bremen, Kiel, and Hamburg, and is even considered a hangover cure.
4. Bratwurst: Germany is famous for its sausages, and bratwurst is one of the most popular varieties. There are over 40 types of German bratwurst, each with its own unique characteristics. They can be fried on a barbecue or in a pan and served in a bread roll with mustard, potato salad, or sauerkraut. Some common types include Fränkische bratwurst, Nürnberger rostbratwurst, and Thüringer rostbratwurst. Currywurst: This street food classic is often associated with German cuisine. It originated in Berlin when a woman mixed ketchup and curry powder, and served it over grilled sausage. Today, currywurst can be found all over Germany, especially in Berlin, Cologne, and the Rhine-Ruhr region. It is usually served with chips, ketchup, mayonnaise, or a bread roll. It has become a beloved street snack, with over 800 million consumed each year.
5. Döner Kebab: Introduced to Germany by Turkish immigrants in the 1960s and ’70s, döner kebab quickly became popular. It consists of meat, onions, salad, and a selection of sauces wrapped in flatbread. Variations include veal, chicken, lamb, and even vegetarian or vegan options. It is now widely available throughout Germany.
6. Schnitzel: While some may argue that schnitzel is Austrian, it has become a staple in German cuisine. It is a breaded and fried meat cutlet, typically made with tenderized pork or turkey. Various sauces are often served over schnitzel, such as mushroom sauce, bell pepper sauce, or a creamy sauce. It is commonly enjoyed with fried potatoes and a cold beer.
7. Spätzle: Originally from Baden-Württemberg, spätzle is a type of pasta made with eggs, flour, salt, and sometimes fizzy water to lighten the dough. It is traditionally served as a side dish to meat or added to soups. Käsespätzle, a popular variant, consists of hot spätzle layered with grated cheese and fried onions. It is a menu favorite in beer gardens during the summer and cozy pubs in Munich during the winter.
8. Rouladen: Rouladen is a dish made by wrapping bacon, onions, mustard, and pickles in sliced beef or veal. Vegetarian and other meat options are now available, but the traditional rinderrouladen (beef rouladen) is popular in western Germany and the Rhine region. It is commonly served with potato dumplings, mashed potatoes, pickled red cabbage, and a red wine gravy.
9. Sauerbraten: Considered one of Germany’s national dishes, sauerbraten has several regional variations. It is a pot roast that takes time to prepare but is worth the effort. Traditionally made with horse meat, it is now commonly prepared with beef or venison. The meat is marinated for several days in a mixture of red wine vinegar, herbs, and spices. It is served with a dark gravy made with beetroot sugar sauce and rye bread, and typically accompanied by red cabbage, potato dumplings, or boiled potatoes.
10. Himmel und Erde: Also known as “Heaven and Earth,” this dish is popular in the Rhineland, Westphalia, and Lower Saxony. It consists of black pudding, fried onions, mashed potatoes, and apple sauce. It has been enjoyed since the 18th century and pairs well with a glass of Kölsch beer.
These are just a few examples of the delicious and diverse dishes you can try when visiting Germany. Explore the culinary traditions of this country and discover your new favorite German food.
