Tasting the World: My Favorite Meals from Germany

One thing I like to do when I travel is to sample the local food. Good food is typically a universal language that everyone can understand --- and Germany (Deutschland) speaks it fluently! Walking through the cobblestone streets of any city, like Wurzburg, Schweinfurt, or Dresden, grabbing a bite to eat, every plate tells a unique story! Not to mention the amazing flavor!

With the exception of my Mother-in-Law's meals, these are just a few of the meals that sparked my love affair with Germany --- each dish tied to the culture, comfort, and connections!

1. Schnitzel with Fries: A Golden Delicious Classic

   There is nothing like this classic dish. Crunchy and fried and seasoned to perfection.

   Most places you can get it either as pork or chicken. Golden and crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. This dish is always my go to on any menu. Typically paired with fries and a lemon wedge! Top it off with a drink like Aperol Spritz. Chef's kiss! Courtesy of SternBaeck in Wurzburg!

   

2. Turkish Breakfast: A Feast for the Soul

   I had never experienced a Turkish breakfast before, and I had no idea what I had been missing! Simitci cafe in Schweinfurt was the perfect meeting place for friends and breakfast. The outside seating added to the relaxing atmosphere. The platter was so beautiful I had to stop and admire it like art before indulging! Warm bread, olives, cheeses, eggs, fruits, vegetables, fruit spreads, orange juice, and Turkish tea!

   A reminder that breakfast should be savored and enjoyed --- a great way to start the day! Mornings in America can be rushed before work especially before a shift. I'm used to a quick cup of coffee and a bowl of oatmeal. But eating at this cafe taught me to slow down and enjoy the experience!

   

3. Besser Als Sex Cheesecake: So Good it Should be a Sin

   Translated Besser Als Sex is Better than Sex Cheesecake! Such a bold claim but it just might be a close second! You have to try it for yourself! The cheesecake was rich, creamy, with the perfect crumble. Toasted on the top with chocolate and strawberry drizzle, the presentation itself was seductive! It wasn't too sweet---simply perfect! I may or may not have gone back for seconds! Thanks, Aposto in Schweinfurt!

   

4. Duck Breast with Red Cabbage and Potato Dumplings

   Once again, a dish I didn't know I needed in my life! I have had Peking duck before but never the traditional German Duck. This dish is generally served with a tangy red cabbage and the soft potato dumplings. A little lemon and garnish for flair added to the experience. Once again sharing a meal like this with family and friends is like a warm hug on cold evening! It just feels right! I had this dish at Brauhaus am Markt in Schweinfurt. You don't even have to ask if it was good or not because it made the list. Seared on the outside, tender on the inside, crispy skin, and a sauce to die for!

   

5. Amaretto Ice Cream: A Sweet Goodbye

   Before I said goodbye to Germany, I had to treat myself to some ice cream (Eis). One scoop (actually 2 scoops) of amaretto ice cream from Eiscafe Itrevi in Schweinfurt. The ice cream was smooth, nutty, and a perfect amount of amaretto. The first bite makes you want to close your eyes and smile! I still think about that warm afternoon, plenty of people and the perfect dessert!

   

Food, Life, and Germany

In America I tend to eat on the run and eat a meal and on to the next but this experience was a needed reminder to slow down, savor your meal, and cherish connections!

If you work in healthcare, then you know its eating on the run and sometimes skipping meals altogether. Good food fuels the body and the soul. Whether you enjoy any of the meals I mentioned above or your own, the best food is shared with friends, family, or yourself on a new adventure!

Comment which one you would try!

Auf Wiedersehen (Goodbye)!