My Christmas Munchies Wunschliste
The dark and damp days of November? I say: bring ’em on! – they make my Germanic heart beat faster with anticipation of Christmas market season. This year I will be back in the old country when the yuletide festivities begin, and my mouth is already watering as I dream of the lecker food and drink that’s on my personal Wunschliste:
Dresdner Stollen
My hometown of Dresden is world-famous for its Christmas bread. Raisins, dried fruit, almonds, spices, marzipan and the like – all wrapped in a loaf of goodness. Every bakery has its own unique (and safely guarded) recipe; and every customer their favourite source. Not me though – I give them all a chance to convince me theirs is the best.
Thüringer Bratwurst
My dad hails from a region of Germany called Thuringia which gives its name to this delicious type of sausage. In their purest form they come fresh of the coal-fired grill in a doughy bread bun topped with plain mustard. A true classic. And very much part of my DNA you could argue.
Gebrannte Nüsse
Caramelized nuts are a xmas market staple and for good reason. They are simply to die for – especially when still warm. Nothing beats munching away on a small bag of caramelized almonds while perusing the wooden stalls for finds of all kinds.
Lebkuchen
Gingerbread. In all the shapes and forms. Gingerbread hearts are adorable and make great gifts, too.
Kartoffelpuffer
I prefer my German-style potato pancakes with a healthy helping of sour cream and chives, but traditionally they are also enjoyed slathered in apple sauce. Either way, it’s crispy and greasy perfection.
Glühwein
Last but not least, no visit to the Christmas market is complete without a hot beverage in a holiday-themed mug, and nothing more iconic than said mug filled with mulled wine. There are alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions, purist or mit Schuss (a shot of schnapps). I usually make a beeline for huts run by local winemakers who serve up libations made in the region.
