One of the best parts of traveling is sampling the local cuisine, and Germany is no exception.
In addition to the country’s famous alpine peaks and Bavarian castles, you’ll discover an array of culinary specialties worth exploring. Here are some helpful tips and foods to try on your tour of Germany.
You’ll notice more people eating with flatware than with their fingers in Germany, even when it comes to things like French fries that most Americans consider to be finger foods. Germans are also conservative at the table, meaning if you want ice in your drink, be prepared to ask for it. Unlike most places in the US, water and bread are usually not complimentary and will need to be requested. One thing Germans do share in common with Americans is their love of hearty dishes and rich comfort foods
With an emphasis on traditional savory dishes often served with a cream base, German cuisine is both simple and delicious. Here are some things you can sink your teeth into while visiting Germany on a guided tour.
Meat reigns supreme in Germany and is consumed at nearly every meal. Two mainstays are pork and chicken. Of course, a hearty stroganoff, another German classic, typically features a beef offering, but in general, plan on white meats. Of course, nothing tops the variety of sausages that Germany is famous for. Here are some meat specialties not to miss:
Here are some common dishes to try:
The food may be heavy at times but you won’t want to skip dessert! Be sure to save some room for these German favorites.
Germany is famous for its beer-making tradition, and you’d certainly be remiss to skip the opportunity to try to sample some local favorites. A nice ale or pilsner is typically what is served with meals, often in an oversized beer glass. When you raise your glass, be sure to do as the Germans do and toast your neighbor with a friendly “Prost!”
Fast food probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to sampling German cuisine. But picking up a pretzel or bratwurst from a street food stand can be a quick and inexpensive way to experience a few local specialties.
And if you’re in the mood for something a little different be sure to try a Doner Kebab. Also known as Donerbuden, this Turkish-inspired thinly sliced meat is similar to what Americans call a “gyro” and is served with lettuce, onion, cucumber, and tomatoes on flat pita bread. Kebabs are sold at food carts in every major German city, and are so popular they outsell all other types of fast food combined!
Is your mouth watering yet? If you’re ready to try your hand at German cuisine before hopping on a plane to Bavaria, be sure to check out www.germanfoods.org for some incredible (and often fairly simple!) traditional recipes!
To explore our collection of guided tours of Germany, click here.
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