Germany Food & Eating Guide

Food & Eating Guide

There is more to German cuisine than bratwurst (sausages), sauerkraut and beer but it is true that Germans enjoy heavy and hearty meals including ample portions of meat and bread. Potatoes are the staple food, and each region has its own favourite way of preparing them.

Some Germans eat potatoes with pears, bacon, and beans. Others prepare a special stew called the Pichelsteiner, made with three kinds of meat and potatoes. Germans from Berlin eat potatoes with bacon and spicy sausage. Sauerbraten is a traditional German dish of roast pork, beef, or veal and is flavored in different ways depending on the region.

Fruit (instead of vegetables) is often combined with meat dishes to add a sweet and sour taste to the meal. Throughout Germany desserts made with apples are very popular.

Knödel, or dumplings, accompany many meals, especially in the north. In the south, a tiny version called spätzle is more common. Germans enjoy bread with every meal, with rye, pumpernickel, and sourdough breads more common than white bread. Soft pretzels can be found almost anywhere. Spargel (asparagus) served with a sauce or in soup is popular in the spring.

Germany has three legal drinking ages:

• At 14, minors are allowed to consume and possess undistilled alcoholic beverages, such as beer and wine, as long as they are accompanied by an adult

• At 16, undistilled drinks are allowed without a parent

• At 18, having become adults, people are allowed access to distilled liquor.

Violation of these restraints involves prosecution for vendors who sell to underage persons. Minors can never be prosecuted for illegal alcohol consumption.