Gastronomía

Strong Flavors and Regional Tradition

German cuisine is robust, comforting and surprisingly diverse. Each region prides itself on its specialties, with a strong emphasis on meat (especially pork), potatoes, bread and, of course, beer. It is a cuisine that reflects the geography and history of the country.

Platos Imprescindibles

Bratwurst and other Sausages (Wurst)

It is impossible to talk about Germany without mentioning its infinite variety of sausages. Grilled Bratwurst is the most famous, but each region has its own: the Bavarian Weisswurst, the Berlin Currywurst, or the small ones from Nuremberg. They are served on a bun or with sauerkraut and mustard.

Schnitzel

Although 'Wiener Schnitzel' is Austrian and beef, the German version (often pork, 'Schnitzel Wiener Art') is a ubiquitous and beloved dish. A steak breaded and fried until golden brown and crispy, usually served with a slice of lemon and French fries or potato salad.

Sauerbraten

Considered one of the national dishes. It is a roast meat (usually beef) that is marinated for days in a mixture of wine, vinegar and spices, which gives it a characteristic bittersweet flavor. It is cooked over low heat and served with a thick sauce, 'Rotkohl' (red cabbage) and 'Knödel' (potato or bread balls).

Spätzle

A kind of irregular and tender egg pasta, typical of the Swabia region. It is often served as a side dish, but the 'Käsespätzle' version (with melted cheese and fried onion) is a delicious and very popular main dish, similar to macaroni and cheese.

Brezel (Pretzel)

The salty bow found everywhere, especially in the south. The Bavarian pretzel is large, soft inside and with a dark, salty crust. It is the perfect accompaniment to a beer in a 'Biergarten'.

Eintopf

It means 'a pot' and is the German definition of stew. It is a complete meal in a single dish that combines broth, vegetables, potatoes and some type of meat or sausage. There are countless regional variations and it is a very popular dish in the cold months.

Bebidas Típicas

Beer

The national drink. Germany is governed by the Purity Law of 1516 (Reinheitsgebot). The variety is immense: Pils, Lager, Weissbier (wheat), Kölsch (from Cologne), Bock (stronger)... Each region has its style and the beer culture is very strong.

Wine

Germany is famous for its white wines, especially Riesling, which grows on the steep slopes of the Moselle and Rhine river valleys. They are elegant, aromatic wines with fantastic acidity. There are also good reds, such as Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir).

Apfelschorle

The most popular non-alcoholic drink. It is a simple and refreshing mixture of apple juice and sparkling water. You will find it on all menus and it is the perfect alternative to sugary soft drinks.

Schnaps

A generic term for strong distillates, often fruit distillates (Obstler), taken as a digestif after a heavy meal. Jägermeister is perhaps the most internationally famous German herbal liqueur.