Döner: Germany’s Most Popular Fast Food
When you think of Germany’s fast food scene, one item that stands out as a favourite among locals and tourists alike is the döner kebab. Originating from Turkish in the 1970s, the döner has become an integral part of German street food culture, particularly in cities like Berlin.
Berlin – Currywurst
A trip to Berlin wouldn’t be complete without indulging in the iconic currywurst. This beloved street food embodies the spirit of Berlin. It features steamed and fried pork sausage, sliced and generously topped with a tangy curry-flavoured ketchup. Typically served with a side of bread roll or French fries, currywurst is a must-try, offering a flavourful experience perfect for enjoying while making your way to the stadium for the Euro 2024 final.
Dortmund – Pfefferpotthast
In Dortmund, don’t miss out on Pfefferpotthast, a hearty Westphalian stew. Despite its tricky pronunciation, this dish is easy on the palate. Made with tender beef and onions, it’s seasoned with a robust pepper coating, offering a spicy kick. Served with bread or potatoes, Pfefferpotthast is a warming and satisfying meal, even during Dortmund’s mild summer weather.
Hamburg – Labskaus
Hamburg’s rich maritime history is best experienced through its traditional dish, Labskaus. Originally crafted to sustain sailors on long voyages, this dish includes pickled herring, fried eggs, potatoes, beetroot, and corn. It provides a comforting and savoury taste of Hamburg’s seafaring past. Today, Labskaus has found a place in gourmet kitchens, marrying historical significance with modern culinary flair.
Frankfurt – Grüne Soße (Green Sauce)
For a lighter option in Frankfurt, try Grüne Soße (Green Sauce). This refreshing dish is made with sour cream and a mix of seven fresh herbs, including sorrel, chives, and borage. Often served with potatoes and boiled eggs, Grüne Soße offers a zesty and vibrant alternative to the traditional Frankfurter Würstchen, making it a perfect summer meal.
Munich – Schweinshaxe (Pork Knuckle)
No visit to Munich is complete without tasting Schweinshaxe, the quintessential Bavarian pork knuckle. This roasted delicacy features the meaty part of the leg below the pork’s knee, cooked to achieve a crispy skin and tender, juicy interior. Schweinshaxe is especially popular during Oktoberfest, but it’s a must-have treat for any visit to Munich, providing a hearty and delicious culinary experience.
Leipzig – Eierschecke
For dessert lovers, Leipzig offers the delectable Eierschecke. This layered cake includes a middle tier of quark-based cheesecake and a top layer of vanilla custard. The thick and creamy appearance is achieved with a glaze of flour, sugar, eggs, and cream. Eierschecke is a regional specialty across Saxony and Thuringia, representing the area’s passion for custard-filled desserts.
Stuttgart – Maultaschen
In Stuttgart, you’ll find Maultaschen, large dumplings filled with smoked meat, spinach, onions, and minced meat, seasoned with herbs and spices. Legend has it that these “mouth-bags” were created by monks to conceal meat during Lent. Today, they are a beloved Swabian dish, akin to ravioli, and offer a unique taste of regional history and culture.
Cologne – Rheinischer Sauerbraten
Cologne’s Rheinischer Sauerbraten is a braised roast with a distinctive flavour, thanks to its marination in wine for several days. Traditionally made with horse meat, it’s now commonly prepared with beef. The sauce has a sweet taste, often containing sugar beet syrup, apple sauce, or gingerbread, providing a complex and delightful dining experience.
Düsseldorf – Senfrostbraten
Düsseldorf is renowned for its Senfrostbraten, a mustard roast featuring a rump steak with a special mustard crust. Known as the “Mustard City,” Düsseldorf offers this hearty dish best paired with a local Altbier, a copper-coloured Rhineland brew. Senfrostbraten is a testament to the city’s rich culinary traditions.
Gelsenkirchen – Himmel und Erde
In Gelsenkirchen, Himmel und Erde (Heaven and Earth) is a traditional dish combining applesauce (the “heaven”) and mashed potatoes (the “earth”), topped with fried onions and black pudding. This meal reflects the industrial Ruhr region’s culinary ingenuity, offering a unique blend of flavours that symbolize the area’s history and culture.
