Germany is not only famous for its ancient architecture and vibrant festivals, but it is also a paradise for those who love to explore cuisine. From famous sausages, crispy bread to attractive desserts, each dish in Germany has a strong cultural identity and unique flavor. In the article below, let's explore SHD Academy Discover 10 famous German dishes that you must try if you have the opportunity to visit this beautiful country!

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1. German sausage – Bratwurst

When it comes to German cuisine, we certainly cannot ignore sausages - the symbolic dish of this country. Among them, Bratwurst is one of the most popular sausages, usually made from pork or veal, combined with spices such as coriander, ginger and nutmeg. Bratwurst is often boiled before being fried or grilled, creating a delicious, rich flavor. The dish impresses with its freshness and diversity, with more than 50 different variations in size, flavor and shape. One of the most famous variations is Nürnberger Bratwurst, which has a long history dating back to 1313 and is associated with the city of Nuremberg.

You can easily find many types of Bratwurst throughout Germany, but to fully enjoy the flavor of this dish, you should try the Thuringer Rostbratwurst sausage grilled over charcoal with a cold beer at the Prater Garten beer garden in Berlin. In addition, Bratwurst is also popular as a street food, often sandwiched in bread and eaten with ketchup and mustard - a simple but attractive combination that international students vocational training in Germany not to be missed!

2. Apple Apfelstrudel

If you are a sweet tooth, you definitely cannot miss Apfelstrudel – the famous German apple roll. Although originating from Austria, Apfelstrudel has become an indispensable part of German cuisine.

This cake has a simple recipe but the flavor is extremely attractive. The filling is made from thinly sliced fresh apples, mixed with sugar, cinnamon powder, raisins and sometimes almonds or breadcrumbs to increase the richness. This mixture is wrapped in a thin layer of dough covered with butter and baked until the crust is crispy and golden. When cooked, the cake gives off the seductive aroma of ripe apples mixed with the richness of butter and a little spicy cinnamon, making anyone who enjoys it fall in love.

Apfelstrudel is usually served warm, sprinkled with powdered sugar and served with vanilla ice cream or creamy custard sauce. It is not only a delicious dessert but also a symbol of Central European cuisine. If you have the opportunity to visit Germany, don't forget to try a piece. Apfelstrudel Hot to fully experience this special traditional flavor!

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3. Kartoffelpuffer – French Fries

Germans have a special passion for potatoes and it is clearly shown in their traditional dishes. One of the most famous potato dishes is Kartoffelpuffer (also known as Reibekuchen). This is a type of deep-fried potato cake that is simple to prepare but has an irresistible delicious taste and is often eaten as a snack.

Kartoffelpuffer is made from grated potatoes, mixed with eggs, flour and spices, then fried in hot oil until golden brown. When eaten, the crispy crust combined with the soft, fragrant inside creates an irresistible flavor. In particular, this cake can be eaten with many different sauces such as apple sauce, sour cream or even smoked salmon, bringing diverse culinary experiences.

If you want to stroll the bustling streets while enjoying a piping hot Kartoffelpuffer, stop by the Heinz Reibekuchen at Sudermanplatz Farmer's Market on Tuesdays or the Apostelnkloster Market on Fridays. These are famous places for authentic potato crisps, which are sure to give you a taste you'll never forget!

4. Doner Kebab Bread

Although Doner Kebab originated in Türkiye, this dish has become an indispensable part of German street food, especially in Berlin. 

Before the invention of Döner bread, kebabs were traditionally served with rice in traditional dinners. However, the advent of pitta bread combined with fresh salad and yogurt sauce transformed Döner Kebab into a convenient, fast food dish, suitable for enjoying on the go. With its soft, fragrant crust, grilled meat filling that is both crispy and juicy, combined with the rich taste of the sauce, this dish quickly became a symbol of German street food.

If you visit Berlin, you cannot miss Mustafa's Gemüsekebap, one of the most famous places to enjoy Döner Kebab. But if you don't want to wait in line, you can visit Imren or Tadim - two shops that are loved by the Turkish people in Berlin thanks to the excellent quality of kebabs and their unique flavors.

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5. Brezel Donut

Brezel is one of the typical German breads, with its unique twisted shape and attractive shiny brown crust. This bread is said to have appeared in the Middle Ages, created by European monks as a reward for children memorizing the Bible. Over the centuries, Brezel has become a symbol of traditional German cuisine and is popular all over the world.

Brezel has a light crispy crust, soft inside, often sprinkled with salt to enhance the flavor. In addition to the traditional version, today there are many attractive variations such as Brezel covered with butter, cheese, almonds or dipped in mustard sauce. This is a familiar snack, often sold at bakeries, fairs and especially during Oktoberfest beer festivals.

6. German Pizza – Flammkuchen

Flammkuchen is a famous German pastry, originating from the Alsace region (France). Although it looks like pizza, Flammkuchen has a thinner, crispy crust, usually shaped into a rectangle or oval. The traditional filling of the cake includes fresh cream, sliced onions and bacon, creating a rich, fragrant and extremely attractive flavor. Today, Flammkuchen has many variations with cheese, mushrooms, salmon or even sweet ingredients such as apples and cinnamon.

If you want to enjoy authentic Flammkuchen in Stuttgart, visit Carl's Brauhaus - a famous local beer hall, loved by locals and tourists. Here, you can sip a cold beer while enjoying a hot, crispy Flammkuchen.

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7. Fish Brotchen

If you are too familiar with hamburgers, you can change the wind with fish sandwiches every now and then. This is a traditional dish of Northern Germany, where fresh seafood is available thanks to its coastal location. Fischbrötchen is usually made from pickled Bismarck herring, salmon or cod, bringing a fresh, rich flavor.

The special thing about Fischbrötchen is that it is a filling that combines fresh fish, crispy white onions, pickled cucumbers and signature sauces such as spicy horseradish sauce, ketchup or creamy cocktail sauce. Thanks to the balance of sour, salty and fatty flavors, this dish is not only delicious but also a lighter, less greasy option compared to other fast food dishes such as Döner Kebab.

You can easily find Fischbrötchen at fish stalls, bakeries or seafood markets in coastal cities like Hamburg, Kiel or Bremen. If you have the opportunity to visit Northern Germany, don't forget to try this delicious fresh fish sandwich to fully experience the taste of the sea!

8. Pork knuckles with sauerkraut – Schweinshaxe mit sauerkraut

Schweinshaxe with sauerkraut is not only a long-standing traditional dish but also considered a culinary symbol of Germany. The dish impresses with the harmonious combination of crispy pork leg skin, soft and sweet meat inside, soaked in spices, and the characteristic sour taste of Sauerkraut (pickled cabbage). The contrast between the fatty taste of the meat and the mild sour taste of pickled cabbage not only helps balance the flavor but also stimulates the taste buds, making diners never get tired of eating.

A standard plate of Schweinshaxe mit Sauerkraut will be served with mustard, mashed potatoes or potato dumplings, creating a full and attractive meal. If you have the opportunity to set foot in Germany, especially the Bavaria region, do not forget to enjoy this famous dish with a glass of cold beer to fully experience the quintessence of German cuisine!

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9. Black Forest Cake - Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte 

Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte is a famous German dessert consisting of layers of soft chocolate cake, cherry jam, whipped cream and juicy cherries. The cake originated in the Black Forest (Schwarzwald) region in southwestern Germany, which is also the birthplace of Kirschwasser – a typical cherry brandy used to make the cake.

Germans often enjoy Black Forest Cake in the afternoon with a cup of coffee. This habit, also known as Kaffee und Kuchen, is a long-standing tradition, especially popular on weekends when families get together. And what better way to end a relaxing afternoon than with a Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte.

To enjoy this traditional cake, you can find it in long-standing cafes in Berlin or Munich - where they will give you a standard Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, perfect to enjoy with a cup of hot coffee.

10. Spatzle – Käsespätzle

Käsespätzle is a traditional dish loved in Southern Germany. It is made from Spätzle – fresh pasta made from flour, eggs and water, which is then boiled and mixed with melted cheese, usually Emmentaler or Gruyère, giving it a soft texture and rich flavor.

The highlight of Käsespätzle is the layer of crispy fried onions sprinkled on top. The crunchiness of the onions not only adds to the appeal but also balances the richness of the cheese, making the dish more flavorful. Käsespätzle is usually served while still hot, with the attractive layer of pulled cheese, bringing a warm and alluring feeling.

When visiting Germany, especially the Bavarian or Swabia region, you can easily find this dish in local restaurants or traditional beer halls. Enjoying a plate of hot Käsespätzle in a cozy atmosphere, accompanied by a typical German beer, will definitely make your trip more complete.

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With its rich and diverse cuisine, Germany not only captivates visitors with its flavorful dishes but also offers an interesting cultural experience. Whether it is traditional dishes such as Bratwurst sausages, Brezel cakes or attractive desserts such as Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, each dish has its own story and contributes to the unique culinary identity of this country. If you have the opportunity to visit Germany, do not forget to enjoy these dishes. German food this famous for a complete and meaningful trip!