If You Want to Try Cooking German Meals, Here’s a List to Try Out

German cuisine is a feast for the senses, offering a rich tapestry of flavors and textures that reflect the country’s diverse regions and culinary traditions. Known for its hearty, comforting dishes and delicious baked goods, German food is perfect for those who love robust flavors and satisfying meals.

If you’re eager to bring a taste of Germany into your kitchen, think like a German as they ask Was soll ich heute essen, that means what should I eat today. This list features ten classic German dishes that showcase the best of what German cooking has to offer. From savory sausages and succulent rouladen to decadent desserts, these recipes provide a fantastic introduction to the hearty and flavorful world of German cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these dishes will transport you to Germany with every bite.

Wurst

Wurst, or sausage, is a quintessential part of German cuisine, with over 1,500 varieties across the country. These sausages come in different forms, from grilled and pan-fried to smoked and boiled. Popular types include:

Bratwurst: Made from veal, beef, or pork, this sausage is often grilled or pan-fried.
Currywurst: A Berlin specialty, featuring sausage topped with curried ketchup.
Weisswurst: A white sausage traditionally served with sweet mustard.
Rostbratwurst: Known in Nuremberg, these are small, grilled sausages often enjoyed with sauerkraut.

Recipes to Try:

Knackwurst with Sauerkraut: A simple recipe for making this classic sausage and fermented cabbage dish.
Currywurst Sauce: A flavorful sauce recipe that mimics the famous street food topping.
Beer-Braised Bratwurst with Cabbage: A hearty dish combining sausages with cabbage, braised in beer.

Rouladen

Rouladen is a traditional German dish consisting of thinly sliced beef or veal wrapped around a filling of bacon, onions, mustard, and pickles. The rolls are then cooked until tender. This dish is often served at family gatherings and festivals, accompanied by dumplings, mashed potatoes, red cabbage, and gravy.

Recipes to Try:

Beef Rouladen: Follow a video tutorial to learn how to make this savory beef dish.
Mushroom-Stuffed Pork Rouladen: Experiment with a variation that includes mushrooms in the stuffing.

Käsespätzle

Käsespätzle is Germany’s answer to pasta, particularly popular in the southern regions. These soft egg noodles, known as Spätzle, are typically topped with cheese and roasted onions. The dish is often served alongside meat dishes or in stews.

Recipes to Try:

Simple Käsespätzle Recipe: A well-reviewed recipe for making this comforting dish.
Recipe with Photos: A visual guide to help you through the cooking process.
Video Tutorial: Watch a video to learn how to make this delicious dish step-by-step.

Eintopf

Eintopf, meaning “one pot,” is a traditional German stew that combines a variety of ingredients into a hearty meal. Common components include broth, vegetables, potatoes or pulses, and a choice of meat such as pork, beef, chicken, or fish. Regional variations include Lumpen und Flöh in Kassel and Linseneintopf (lentil stew) in Thüringen.

Recipes to Try:

Easy Eintopf Recipe: A straightforward recipe for this versatile stew.
Linseneintopf (Lentil Stew): A specific variation featuring lentils.
Video Tutorial: Learn how to make Eintopf with a step-by-step video.

Sauerbraten

Sauerbraten, or “sour roast,” is a beloved German dish where meat is marinated in a mixture of wine, vinegar, spices, and herbs for up to ten days before being cooked. This method tenderizes tougher cuts of meat and imparts a rich, tangy flavor. It’s typically served with braised cabbage, sauerkraut, and dumplings.

Recipes to Try:

Old Family Recipe: A classic recipe for traditional Sauerbraten.
Rheinischer Sauerbraten: A variation from the Rhine region.
Crockpot Sauerbraten: A convenient recipe for making this dish in a slow cooker.

Kartoffelpuffer

Kartoffelpuffer, or potato pancakes, are a versatile German dish made from grated potatoes mixed with flour, egg, onion, and seasoning. These pancakes are shallow-fried until crispy and can be topped with various condiments, such as sour cream, apple sauce, or cinnamon.

Recipes to Try:

Step-by-Step Photo Recipe: A detailed guide to making Kartoffelpuffer.
Video Tutorial: Watch a video to see the cooking process in action.

Brezel

The Brezel, or pretzel, is a popular German baked pastry, typically shaped into a knot and sprinkled with salt. Variations can include cheese, sugar, chocolate, or cinnamon. Brezels are commonly enjoyed with beer and can be found in bakeries and street stalls throughout Germany.

Recipes to Try:

German Soft Pretzels: A recipe for making classic Brezels at home.
Top-Rated Brezen Recipe: A highly recommended recipe for authentic pretzels.
Video Recipe: A video tutorial to guide you through the process of making Laugenbrezeln.

Schnitzel

Schnitzel is a thin, boneless cutlet of meat that is breaded and fried. The classic Wiener Schnitzel is made from veal, while Schnitzel Wiener Art is made from pork. Variations include Hamburg-style, with a fried egg on top, and Holsten-style, with egg, anchovies, and capers.

Recipes to Try:

Chicken Schnitzel: A recipe for those who prefer chicken over veal or pork.
Authentic German Recipe: A detailed recipe for making traditional Schnitzel.
Detailed Wiener Schnitzel Recipe: A comprehensive guide to preparing the perfect Wiener Schnitzel.

Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte

Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, or Black Forest cherry cake, is Germany’s most famous dessert. It features layers of rich chocolate cake, cherries, and whipped cream, with Schwarzwälder Kirschwasser (cherry liqueur) as a key ingredient. The cake is topped with more cream, maraschino cherries, and chocolate shavings.

Recipes to Try:

Classic Black Forest Gateau Recipe: A traditional recipe for this iconic cake.
Extra Cream Version: A recipe with additional cream for a more luxurious cake.
Black Forest Cupcakes: A fun twist on the classic cake in cupcake form.

Apfelstrudel

Apfelstrudel, or apple strudel, is a popular dessert made from thin, flaky pastry filled with apples, sugar, cinnamon, and raisins. Originating in Austria, it has become a beloved treat in Germany as well. The dough is stretched until paper-thin, layered with butter, and wrapped around the apple filling before baking.

Recipes to Try:

Traditional Recipe: A recipe for making classic Apfelstrudel.
Filo Pastry Cheat: An easier version using filo pastry instead of homemade dough.
Apple and Pecan Strudel with Cinnamon: A variation that includes pecans and additional spices.

Conclusion

Exploring German cuisine through these ten dishes not only allows you to enjoy delicious meals but also offers a glimpse into the heart of German culinary traditions. Each recipe, from the crispy Kartoffelpuffer to the indulgent Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, brings its unique flavor and story to your table. As you prepare and savor these traditional dishes, you’ll experience the warmth and richness of German home cooking. So, gather your ingredients and embark on this culinary adventure. With every meal, you’ll discover why German food is cherished for its comforting and flavorful qualities. Guten appetit, and enjoy your journey through the flavors of Germany!