Traditional culinary specialties of Frankfurt

Frankfurt, Germany’s financial hub, is not only known for its modern skyline but also for its rich culinary heritage. With a history dating back over 2,000 years, Frankfurt has a wide array of traditional dishes that have become local favorites and must-try delicacies for tourists. From hearty sausages to sweet treats, here are some of the traditional culinary specialties of Frankfurt.

One iconic dish that immediately comes to mind when talking about Frankfurt’s culinary heritage is the Frankfurt sausage, locally known as “Frankfurter Würstchen.” These thin, smoked sausages are made from pork, seasoned with a blend of spices, and typically served with mustard and bread rolls. You can find them at traditional “Wurstküche” (sausage kitchen) establishments throughout the city. The sausages are often enjoyed alongside another Frankfurt traditional staple, sauerkraut.

Another beloved local specialty is the “Handkäse mit Musik,” which translates to “hand cheese with music.” Handkäse is a pungent, sour milk cheese that is marinated with onions, vinegar, oil, and various herbs and spices. The name “mit Musik” refers to the onions’ effect on the digestive system, which some claim creates musical sounds. This dish is usually served with buttered bread and is a must-try for cheese lovers.

If you have a sweet tooth, you can’t leave Frankfurt without indulging in the famous “Bethmännchen” cookies. These small almond and marzipan cookies have a rich history and are associated with Frankfurt’s Jewish community. Legend has it that the cookie was originally created for a family member who had lost three fingers, as each cookie traditionally has only three almond slices pressed into it. Nowadays, Bethmännchen can be found in traditional bakeries and are a popular treat during the Christmas season.

One dish that is synonymous with Frankfurt is the “Frankfurter Grüne Sauce,” or Frankfurt green sauce. This creamy herb sauce is made from a blend of seven fresh herbs, including parsley, chives, sorrel, and cress. It is typically served with boiled potatoes and hard-boiled eggs, making it a refreshing and light summer dish. Many restaurants and traditional apple wine taverns in Frankfurt offer variations of the green sauce, so you’ll have plenty of options to sample this local favorite.

Frankfurt is also famous for its apple wine, known as “Apfelwein” or “Ebbelwoi” in the local dialect. This refreshing and slightly tart alcoholic beverage is made from fermented apples and has been enjoyed in the region for centuries. It is often served in a “Bembel,” a traditional blue and grey-painted stoneware jug. Drinking apple wine is not just about the beverage itself, but also about the convivial atmosphere in the traditional apple wine taverns, known as “Ebbelwoi-Kneipen,” where locals gather to enjoy a glass or two.

In conclusion, Frankfurt’s culinary heritage is as diverse as its cultural and architectural landscape. From the iconic Frankfurt sausage and Handkäse mit Musik to sweet treats like Bethmännchen and refreshing apple wine, there is something to satisfy every craving. Exploring the traditional culinary specialties of Frankfurt is a delicious way to immerse yourself in the city’s history and culture. So next time you visit, make sure to indulge in these local delights and experience Frankfurt’s vibrant food scene.