Western Europe
Food of Germany
The 8 most iconic national dishes of Germany — real photos, key ingredients and tasty facts behind every plate.
Europe
Sauerbraten
Germany’s classic pot roast, made by marinating beef in a sour-sweet mixture before slow-braising until tender. The gravy is rich, tangy and gently spiced, often balanced with a touch of sweetness.
Did you know?
It is often called one of Germany’s national dishes, with regional versions found across the Rhineland, Franconia and beyond.
Bratwurst
A grilled or pan-fried German sausage with a juicy, savory bite and a well-browned exterior. It is commonly served in a bread roll or with mustard and sides like sauerkraut or potato salad.
Did you know?
Germany has many regional bratwurst traditions, including the famous Nürnberger Rostbratwurst, which is protected by EU geographical status.
Schnitzel
A thin cutlet, breaded and fried until crisp and golden, usually served with lemon and potatoes or salad. In Germany it is a staple pub and home-style dish with a crunchy coating and tender interior.
Did you know?
Although Wiener schnitzel is Austrian and traditionally veal, pork schnitzel became deeply embedded in everyday German cooking.
Kartoffelsalat
German potato salad comes in distinct regional styles, from a warm, vinegary southern version to a creamier northern one. It is comforting, tangy and a standard companion to sausages and festive meals.
Did you know?
On Christmas Eve, many German families traditionally eat potato salad with sausages as a simple, long-established holiday meal.
Pretzel
The German Brezel is a glossy, deep-brown baked knot with a chewy crust, soft interior and coarse salt on top. Its distinctive alkaline-dipped crust gives it a unique savory flavor and shine.
Did you know?
The characteristic color and flavor come from dipping the dough in an alkaline solution before baking, a hallmark of traditional German pretzels.
Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte
This iconic Black Forest cake layers chocolate sponge with cherries, whipped cream and Kirsch, then decorates it with more cream and chocolate shavings. It is rich yet fruity, with a distinctive cherry-brandy aroma.
Did you know?
In Germany, a cake generally must contain Kirschwasser to be considered an authentic Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte.
Labskaus
A northern German sailor’s dish made from corned beef, potatoes, and beetroot mashed together. It is typically served with pickles, herring, and a fried egg.
Did you know?
Labskaus is especially associated with the port cities of Hamburg and Bremen.
Mettbrötchen
A bread roll topped with seasoned raw minced pork and often finished with sliced onions. It is a distinctive German snack with a very fresh, savory taste.
Did you know?
It is also popularly known as Hackepeter in parts of eastern Germany.