If You Can’t Be German, Eat Like One

My friend makes jokes that there are two types of people in the world — Italians and those who want to be. In her world she might be right, but in mine — if you can’t be German, you can, at least, eat like one.

Now, I’m guessing you’re aware that Germany has 16 federal states — and encompasses a pretty large area. None of which are alike. So, it’s not hard to believe that the food varies by region; and I’ve got the Rhineland area in my culinary sights today.

Meats, breads, sweets, whatever, you’ll find it all in the cooking of the Rhineland.

The most versatile is the Schwarzbrot (Dark Bread) that’s made with whole grain rye; tasting so delicious on its own or topped with any kind of wurst or cheese. Eat up, it’s good for you too.

When fried foods are calling your name, you got a choice of either Frikadellen (ground beef or pork) that can be eaten hot or cold (hmm, a multi-tasker, I like that). Or, try some pan-fried potatoes in oil or butter, and goes great with schnitzel or a wurst.

One meaty dish that’s been around for centuries is Sauerbraten. Made with either venison or beef, this marinated meat is usually served with red cabbage or potato dumpings.

OK, enough of the real food — I want dessert. Don’t you? Ahh, life’s short — eat dessert first! ;-)

Anyway, the Rhineland’s got the most delicious Obstkuchen, a fruit cake (not the Christmas re-gifting fruit cake) that’s made with either a sponge or yeast dough bottom.

My buds over at the Germanfoodguide.com say it goes good with whipped cream and a cup of java. Inasmuch as I agree — I think the fruitty goodness can stand alone. Here’s a fruit cake recipe, in case you’ve got a hankerin’ to make your own.

I will, however, take the cup of java with Kreppel. Similar to Berliner, this is a fried pastry that’s not really a donut. Who cares, we Germans have been making them since the 15th century. Hmm, looks like we were the original Dunkin Donuts, huh?

After eating meals like that, is it even possible to feel even MORE German? Uhhh, yeah! :-)