Oktoberfest is one of the most famous festivals in the world, and it takes place every year in Munich, Germany. This 16-day event is all about drinking beer, enjoying traditional German food, and having a good time with friends and family. If you’re planning to attend Oktoberfest, then you need to know what traditional German foods to try while you’re there. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing the traditional German foods to try at Oktoberfest Munich.
History of Oktoberfest
The city of Munich, Germany hosts a yearly festival known as Oktoberfest. It is one of the most famous festivals in the world and is known for its beer, food, and carnival-like atmosphere. The festival is held annually in late September and runs for 16 days, ending in the first week of October. Oktoberfest is a celebration of Bavarian culture, and it has a rich history dating back over 200 years.
The first Oktoberfest took place on October 12, 1810, to celebrate the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig, later King Ludwig I, to Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. The wedding was a huge event, and the festivities included horse races, parades, and plenty of beer. The event was so popular that it was repeated the following year and became an annual tradition.
The festival’s size and popularity increased over time. In the early years, the event was held in October, but it was later moved to September to take advantage of better weather. Today, Oktoberfest is one of the largest festivals in the world, and it attracts millions of visitors from all over the globe.
Now, let’s talk about the traditional German foods to try at Oktoberfest Munich:
Pretzels (Brezen)
Pretzels are a beloved snack in Bavarian cuisine and a must-try for anyone attending Oktoberfest. Their doughy texture and distinctive shape make them a unique treat. They can be enjoyed with a variety of sweet or savory toppings, making them a versatile snack. Some of the most popular toppings, such as butter, mustard, and cheese, provide a delicious contrast to the pretzel’s saltiness. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, trying a Brezen is a great way to experience the rich culinary traditions of Bavaria.
Schnitzel
Schnitzel is a beloved German dish that is a staple of Bavarian cuisine and a must-try at Oktoberfest. Made from a thin, breaded cutlet of pork or veal, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for fueling up during the festival. Typically served with a side of potatoes or salad, it’s a well-rounded dish that offers a balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re a meat lover or just looking to try something new, Schnitzel is a classic German dish that is not to be missed at Oktoberfest.
Spätzle
Spätzle is a versatile and beloved egg noodle that is a staple of Southern German cuisine and a common side dish at Oktoberfest. It’s often paired with a range of sauces and toppings, making it a versatile option that can complement a variety of different dishes. When served at Oktoberfest, it’s typically topped with cheese and onions, which provides a rich and savory flavor profile that is hard to resist. Whether you’re a noodle enthusiast or just looking to try something new, Spätzle is a tasty and authentic German dish that is worth sampling at Oktoberfest.
Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel)
No visit to Oktoberfest is complete without trying the classic German dessert, apple strudel. This sweet pastry consists of layers of thin, flaky pastry filled with tender, sweet apples. Served warm and often accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s a delicious and comforting treat that is perfect for rounding out a meal. Whether you have a sweet tooth or are simply looking to indulge in some traditional German cuisine, apple strudel is a dessert that you won’t want to miss.
Sausages (Würstl)
Sausages, known as Würstl in German, are an iconic part of Bavarian cuisine and a staple of Oktoberfest. With a wide variety of sausages to choose from, visitors are spoilt for choice. Bratwurst, weisswurst, and currywurst are just a few examples of the delicious options available. Sausages are typically grilled, giving them a distinctive smoky flavor that is hard to resist. They can be enjoyed with a range of traditional condiments, such as sauerkraut and mustard, which provide a tangy and flavorful complement to the savory sausage. For meat lovers, trying a few different types of Würstl is an essential part of any trip to Oktoberfest.
In addition to these traditional German foods, there are also many other treats to try at Oktoberfest. Some other popular foods include roasted chicken, potato pancakes, and roasted almonds. You’ll also find plenty of beer, of course, as Oktoberfest is known for its excellent selection of German beers.
