The best recipes of German gastronomy

German cuisine is a sensory journey that fuses tradition and culinary innovation. With its rich history and variety of regional ingredients, German recipes offer a unique dining experience that has captivated food lovers around the world. From comforting dishes to decadent desserts, German cuisine has something for everyone.

1. German Sausages (Bratwurst)

German sausages, or Bratwurst in German, are one of the country's most iconic dishes. These sausages are made with pork seasoned with a mixture of spices, such as cumin, coriander and garlic. They are grilled or fried until golden and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They are traditionally served with mustard and rye bread, although they can also be enjoyed with sauerkraut or mashed potatoes.

Ingredients:

500g ground pork
2 teaspoons of salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions :

In a large bowl, mix the ground pork with the salt, pepper, cumin, coriander, minced garlic and breadcrumbs. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
Form the mixture into sausage shapes, approximately 10cm long and 2cm in diameter.
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausages and cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides and cooked through the inside, about 10-12 minutes.
Serve hot sausages with mustard and rye bread.

2. Sauerkraut

Sauerkraut is another classic German cuisine dish that consists of fermented cabbage. This tangy, crunchy side dish is the perfect accompaniment to dishes like sausages, roast pork, and beef stew. Homemade sauerkraut is easy to make and only requires a few basic ingredients.

Ingredients:
1 head of white cabbage
1 tablespoon of salt
1 spoon of sugar
1 teaspoon dill seeds (optional)

Instructions:
Remove the outer leaves from the cabbage and cut it into quarters. Remove the hard core and cut it into thin slices.
In a large bowl, mix the shredded cabbage with the salt and sugar. Massage the cabbage with your hands for a few minutes until it begins to release liquid.
Transfer the cabbage to a large, clean jar, pressing down so that it is compact and covered with liquid. If necessary, add a little water to completely cover the cabbage.
Cover the jar with cheesecloth or a clean cloth and secure with a rubber band. Let ferment at room temperature for 1-2 weeks, tasting occasionally to check flavor.
Once the sauerkraut has reached the desired level of acidity, cover it with a tight-fitting lid and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for several weeks.

3. German Schnitzel

Schnitzel is a crunchy and tasty delicacy consisting of breaded and fried pork. This German version of the dish is typically served with a lemon wedge and French fries or mashed potatoes. It is a popular choice on German restaurant menus and a comfort food that can be enjoyed any time of year.

Ingredients:
4 pork chops, boneless
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 beaten eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil for frying
Lemon slices to serve

Instructions :
Place each pork chop between two sheets of wax paper and gently pound with a meat mallet until about 1/4 inch thick. Season with salt and pepper.
Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
Dredge each chop first in the flour, then in the egg and finally in the breadcrumbs, making sure they are well coated at each stage.
Heat enough vegetable oil in a large skillet to cover the base over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded chops in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Transfer the chops to a plate lined with kitchen paper to drain excess fat. Serve hot with lemon wedges.

4. German Apple Pie (Apfelkuchen)

German apple pie, or Apfelkuchen, is a classic dessert that combines the sweetness of apples with a soft dough base and a crunchy crumble on top. This treat is perfect for any occasion, from a family gathering to a special celebration.

Ingredients:
3-4 apples, peeled, cored and cut into thin slices
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cup of sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup melted butter
1 egg
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup oats
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a tart pan.
In a large bowl, mix the apple slices with the lemon juice, sugar and cinnamon. Let it rest while you prepare the dough.
In another bowl, beat the melted butter with the egg. Add the flour and mix until a soft dough forms.
Spread the dough on the bottom of the tart pan, pressing it up the sides.
Arrange the apple slices on top of the dough in an even layer.
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, oats and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture over the apples.
Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crisp.
Let cool slightly before cutting into portions and serving.

German cuisine is a celebration of tradition and quality, with dishes that satisfy both body and soul. Whether you're looking for a comfort meal or an indulgent dessert, German recipes have something for every taste. I hope these recipes inspire you to explore the culinary world of Germany and enjoy its delicious flavors in the comfort of your home. Guten Appetit!