When it comes to cooking, there’s nothing quite like exploring the flavors and traditions of a culture. German cuisine, in particular, has a rich history and plenty of delicious dishes to discover. From hearty stews and sausages to sweet treats like apple strudel, Germany has something for every taste and occasion.
In this article, we’ll dive into 18 essential German recipes that are sure to become new favorites. Whether you’re looking for comfort food, special occasion ideas, or just a taste of nostalgia, these classic dishes are sure to please. So grab your lederhosen and let’s get cooking!
Classic German Potato Salad
A traditional German potato salad that’s creamy, tangy, and utterly delicious. This recipe is a staple at many German gatherings and is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons white vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and let them cool to room temperature.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, mayonnaise, dill, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with chopped chives if desired.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (boiling the potatoes) + at least 30 minutes (refrigerating)
Sauerkraut and Sausage Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the tangy flavor of sauerkraut with the richness of sausage, all wrapped up in a crispy crust. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet sausage (such as knockwurst), casings removed
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in sauerkraut, chicken broth, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, mix butter and cheese.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and add sausage mixture.
7. Top with butter-cheese mixture and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Traditional Sauerbraten with Red Cabbage
This classic German dish is a staple of hearty comfort food, featuring tender beef pot roast marinated in a mixture of vinegar, spices, and sugar. Paired with sweet and tangy red cabbage, this recipe makes for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs beef pot roast (such as top round or rump)
– 1 cup vinegar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp mustard seeds
– 1 tsp ground allspice
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 head red cabbage, shredded
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine vinegar, brown sugar, water, mustard seeds, allspice, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the beef pot roast to the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 days or up to 4 days.
4. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
5. Remove the pot roast from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Place the pot roast in a large Dutch oven and add shredded red cabbage around it.
7. Cover the dish with a lid and bake for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Homemade Pretzels with Mustard Dip
Satisfy your cravings with these soft, buttery pretzels and a tangy mustard dip that’s perfect for snacking or serving at parties.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup coarse salt
– Sesame seeds for topping (optional)
– Mustard Dip ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
+ 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, melted butter, and coarse salt to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Divide the dough into 8-10 pieces. Roll each piece into a pretzel shape. Place on prepared baking sheets.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown.
8. For Mustard Dip, mix all ingredients in a bowl.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes (including rising time)
Beef Rouladen with Gravy
Experience the rich flavors of Germany with this comforting beef rouladen dish, wrapped in bacon and served with a savory gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef top round or rump roast, sliced into thin strips
– 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove the bacon and set aside. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Meanwhile, wrap each beef strip with a piece of cooked bacon and an onion-garlic mixture.
5. Place the rouladen on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
6. Pour the beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme over the rouladen.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove the foil and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes or until the beef is tender.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Kartoffelpuffer (German Potato Pancakes)
These crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside potato pancakes are a classic German treat, perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, chopped onion, eggs, flour, and salt. Mix well.
2. Heat about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
4. Fry the Kartoffelpuffer for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spätzle with Cheese and Onions
This classic German dish is a hearty and comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Spätzle, which translates to “little strips” in German, is a type of homemade noodle made from a simple batter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère or Cheddar cheese
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, and salt until smooth.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Using a Spätzlepresse or a colander with large holes, press the batter into the boiling water.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the Spätzle float to the surface.
4. Remove from water and set aside.
5. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 10 minutes.
6. Stir in grated cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Combine cooked Spätzle with cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
German Lentil Soup with Sausage
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the comfort of lentils with the savory taste of sausage, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 1 pound German sausage (such as knockwurst or bratwurst), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrot, and chopped celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, chicken broth, sliced sausage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Apple Strudel with Vanilla Sauce
Experience the classic combination of tender apples and crispy strudel, paired with a rich and creamy vanilla sauce.
Ingredients:
For the Strudel:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
For the Vanilla Sauce:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry and arrange apple slices, leaving a 1-inch border.
3. Fold dough over apples, pressing edges to seal.
4. Brush with egg wash and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, combine heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract in a saucepan.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
7. Remove from heat and whisk in confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pork Schnitzel with Lemon Butter
Pork Schnitzel with Lemon Butter Recipe
A crispy and flavorful twist on the classic Austrian dish
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork cutlets (about 1/4 inch thick)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each pork cutlet in the beaten egg, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Dip the floured pork in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add 2-3 coated pork cutlets (do not overcrowd) and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and brush with lemon juice and melted butter.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes per 3-4 servings
Black Forest Cake
A traditional German dessert, Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) is a rich and decadent chocolate cake filled with whipped cream, cherries, and a hint of cherry liqueur. This iconic cake is perfect for special occasions or as a treat for any chocolate lover.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
– 1 tablespoon cherry liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow the cakes to cool completely before filling with whipped cream, cherries, and cherry liqueur (if using).
7. Assemble the cake by placing one layer on top of the other and dusting with confectioner’s sugar.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
German Chocolate Torte
This rich and decadent German Chocolate Torte is a classic dessert that’s sure to please any chocolate lover. Layers of moist chocolate cake, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans come together in a truly indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup caramel sauce (such as dulce de leche)
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually add dry ingredients and whisk until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling the torte by spreading caramel sauce between layers and topping with chopped pecans.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Beef Goulash with Dumplings
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting beef goulash recipe, served with soft and fluffy dumplings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks of celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 2 cups of beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1/4 cup of water
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. Remove from pot.
2. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to pot; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add browned beef, diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
4. In a separate bowl, combine flour, eggs, and water to make dumpling mixture.
5. Drop tablespoonfuls of dumpling mixture into the goulash; cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until dumplings are cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!
Roasted Pork Knuckle with Beer Gravy
Roasted Pork Knuckle with Beer Gravy Recipe
A classic German-inspired dish that’s sure to impress your guests! This recipe combines the richness of slow-roasted pork knuckle with a tangy and savory beer gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) pork knuckle
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beer (dark or light)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rub the pork knuckle with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and chopped onion.
3. Roast the pork knuckle for 20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
4. While the pork is roasting, combine beer, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Remove the pork knuckle from oven and brush with the beer gravy. Return to oven and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the meat is caramelized and crispy.
6. Let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (depending on size of pork knuckle)
Herring Salad with Potatoes and Apples
This hearty salad combines the tangy flavors of pickled herring, sweet apples, and creamy potatoes for a refreshing and satisfying side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of pickled herring, drained and flaked
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the diced potatoes until tender, then drain and set aside.
2. In a separate pan, sauté the diced apples with a pinch of salt and pepper until caramelized.
3. Combine the flaked herring, cooked potatoes, and sautéed apples in a large bowl.
4. Mix in the mayonnaise and chopped parsley until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
German-style Pickled Cucumbers
Experience the tangy and refreshing taste of traditional German pickles! This recipe yields a deliciously sour and crunchy condiment perfect for topping sandwiches, sausages, or enjoying as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumbers, sliced
– 1 cup (250ml) vinegar (white wine or apple cider)
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes to allow the cucumbers to release their excess water.
2. Drain the cucumbers and rinse them with cold running water.
3. In a large pot, combine vinegar, water, sugar, mustard seeds, and coriander seeds. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Pack the cucumber slices into clean glass jars, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) headspace. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the cucumbers.
5. Seal the jars tightly and let them cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required, as this is a refrigerated pickle recipe.
Plum Cake with Streusel Topping
A moist and flavorful plum cake topped with a crunchy streusel topping, perfect for a sweet treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup plums, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup streusel topping (see below)
Streusel Topping:
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in plums.
6. Pour batter into prepared dish and smooth top.
7. Sprinkle streusel topping evenly over the batter.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Braised Red Cabbage with Apples
A sweet and savory side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted meats or as a topping for sausages.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 apple, peeled and chopped (such as Granny Smith)
– 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of butter
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced cabbage, chopped apple, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Braise the mixture for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and caramelized.
6. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover a world of flavors with these 18 delicious German recipes, perfect for every occasion. From classic potato salad to traditional sauerbraten and red cabbage, explore a variety of dishes that are sure to please. Indulge in homemade pretzels with mustard dip, beef rouladen with gravy, and pork schnitzel with lemon butter. Sweet treats include apple strudel with vanilla sauce, black forest cake, and plum cake with streusel topping. Whether you’re looking for a hearty soup or a comforting casserole, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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