1. Obatzda is a Bavarian cheese delicacy, and once you know how it’s made, you’ll understand why! You take 2/3rd aged soft cheese, similar to Camembert or Romadur, and 1/3rd butter, add some paprika powder (you can use sweet or hot), salt and pepper and a small amount of beer (because what is Germany without beer). If you don’t want to stop there, you can add onion, garlic, horseradish, cloves and ground caraway, add some more cream cheese, mix it all together and grab a pretzel to spread it on. BAM….You have an authentic Obatzda! Pro Tip:You want to use a Bavarian (big) prezetel, not a little one.
2. Semmelknöedel is a dish, that when I read the recipe, it reminded me of something like what Americans would have as stuffing for our holiday meals. Semmelknödel is simply bead dumplings. Simple add all the ingredients together and make a dough that you can compact into about the size of a tennis ball. You “steep” them in near boiling water, drench them in gravy and serve as a side dish. Pro Tip: Try it with some schnitzel, a mouthwatering combo.
3. Nuremberg Rostbratwurst has its own special “protected” recipe. Although bratwurst is synonymous with Germany, Nuremberg has created its unique rostbratwurst that can only be created by those that know the recipe, which is kept secret so that each one is up to standard. During advent they are grilled at the world-famous Nuremberg Christmas Market. Prepared on an open beech wood fire they develop a robust grill aroma because they are only as thick as a finger (similar in size to an American hot dog). Do not leave Nuremberg without having a Nuremberg rostbratwurst. What a great way to warm up at the Christkindlesmarkt (Christmas Market), then with a rostbratwurst. Pro Tip: They are small, so order three!
4. Spaetzle (pronounced spetz-la) would be the American dream comfort food if it had originated here. A dish of egg pasta that resembles little dumplings, it has simple seasonings and butter to top it off. Now, the comfort food would be to add shredded cheese. I had the best I’ve ever tasted on a river cruise through Germany, and I can’t wait to go back. Pro Tip: When cruising, or dining out of the country, don’t hesitate to look at the vegetarian options, you just might find something that will amaze you.
5. Bavarian Pretzels are so mouthwatering when served hot. What makes them unique is the crunch on the outside, yet warm soft gooey inside, and then there’s the size! Thus far I’ve never had one like the ones you find in Germany. Pro Tip: Make sure it’s warm, and then grab a beer or some obatzda and have at it.
6. Bavarian Donuts will absolutely melt in your mouth. Of course what deep-fried, covered in sugar, and filled with ooey gooey cream of jam wouldn’t melt in your mouth. We all have most likely tried a Bavarian donut, but you know the story, there’s nothing like the original. Pro Tip: Get up early to get them warm. You’ll find them at the Bäckerei (bakery).
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