Cologne's Culinary Delights: A Foodie's Guide To The City

Cologne, Germany, is a city with a rich history and a diverse range of culinary delights. With influences from ancient Rome, its position on the Rhine River, neighbouring countries, and its religious traditions, Cologne's food scene is a cultural voyage. From hearty meat dishes to unique pastries, there is something for everyone in this German city. So, get ready to loosen your belt and dive fork-first into the must-eat foods of Cologne!

Black pudding, fried onions, mashed potatoes, and apple sauce

When in Cologne, be sure to indulge in the local food culture and try Himmel und Äd (or Himmel und Ääd/Erde), which translates to "Heaven and Earth". This dish is a delightful combination of black pudding, fried onions, mashed potatoes, and apple sauce. It is a perfect mix of sweet and savoury flavours, representing both the agricultural and religious roots of the city.

To make this dish, start by peeling and cutting the black pudding lengthwise. For the onions, peel and cut them into rings, dust with flour, and fry until golden brown. Prepare the mashed potatoes, either from scratch or using instant potatoes. To plate the dish, arrange the applesauce in a star shape on two plates, placing the mashed potatoes in the middle as a mirror. Top the potatoes with the fried black pudding and spread the onion rings over it. Garnish with chopped chives and serve.

This dish is a true representation of Cologne's culinary landscape, which is influenced by its rich history, diverse cultural influences, religious observances, and regional flavours. So, when you take a bite of this delicious combination of black pudding, fried onions, mashed potatoes, and apple sauce, you are not just tasting a meal, but also experiencing a piece of Cologne's vibrant food culture and history.

In addition to Himmel und Äd, there are other must-try dishes in Cologne, such as Rheinischer Sauerbraten (marinated beef with potato dumplings and red cabbage), Halver Hahn (an open-faced sandwich with Dutch cheese and rye bread), and of course, the classic sauerkraut with sausage. Don't forget to wash down these delicious meals with a glass of Kölsch, the local beer that is an integral part of the city's culture and traditions.

German beer

There are several traditional breweries in the city that serve Kölsch, each with its unique take on this beloved beer. Here are some of the top spots to enjoy a refreshing Kölsch:

• Päffgen: Located in Päffgen Brauhauses, this Kölsch is also available in a select few restaurants. It was voted the best Kölsch in Cologne in a city-wide poll.
• Mühlen: Mühlen came in a close second to Päffgen in the poll. This delicious Kölsch is even worthy of American presidents—Bill Clinton drank it during the G8 Summit in Cologne.
• Schreckenskrammer: This historic Kölsch has an interesting name that dates back to when Cologne still had executions.
• Peters: Peters is known for its beautiful Brauhaus and the fun bottles of Kölsch you can find around the city.
• Reissdorf: Reissdorf is easy to find, flavourful, and has a good balance of taste and history.

While Kölsch is the signature beer of Cologne, there are also other German beers worth sampling. Here are a few alternatives:

• Zappes: This new Pilsner gained popularity during the pandemic and can be found in bars throughout the city.
• Hellers: Hellers offers a wide variety of beers, including Kölsch, and is a great place to explore different styles.
• Braustelle: Located in Ehrenfeld, Braustelle is a tiny place with creative brewing methods and a fantastic food menu.

German pastries

In addition to the Apfelschnecke, there are other unique pastries and desserts to discover in Cologne. The city's in-house confectioneries, such as the one at Landhaus Kuckuck, offer a variety of delicious cakes and pastries. Located in the Cologne city forest, Landhaus Kuckuck is a French fine-dining restaurant with a charming terrace overlooking the garden. Their creative desserts and pastries are crafted from scratch using seasonal ingredients, ensuring a fresh and flavorful experience.

For those with a sweet tooth, exploring the pastry offerings in Cologne is a delightful journey. Whether you're indulging in the apple snail donut or discovering the treats at fine-dining establishments, German pastries in Cologne are sure to satisfy your cravings and provide a delightful cultural experience.

In addition to pastries, Cologne offers a diverse range of culinary delights. From classic German fare to international cuisine, the city's vibrant restaurant scene caters to all tastes. The historic and hip atmosphere of the city is reflected in its food, making it a destination for delicious German dishes and unique culinary experiences.

German sausages

Bratwurst

The bratwurst is one of the most famous German sausages, typically made from veal, beef, or pork. The recipe varies across regions, with over 40 varieties available. Bratwurst can be served as a snack in a bread roll with mustard or alongside a pretzel. As a meal, it is often accompanied by sauerkraut or potato salad.

Weisswurst

Literally translating to "white sausage," Weisswurst is made from fresh minced veal and back bacon without preservatives or curing methods. It is a daytime delicacy, as Germans have a saying that Weisswurst should not be eaten after hearing the noon chime of church bells. It is typically served as a snack after breakfast or before lunch, paired with a pretzel, sweet mustard, and a beer.

Blutwurst

Blutwurst, or blood sausage, is made with pork rind and blood cooked down with barley. It is usually served warm as a meal, such as in the popular Cologne dish "Himmel und Erde" ("Heaven and Earth"), where it is accompanied by sweet apple sauce and mashed potatoes.

Currywurst

Although not a specific type of sausage, currywurst deserves a mention as an icon of German popular culture. It is made by boiling and then frying a bratwurst, dousing it in a sauce of tomatoes and Worcestershire, and dusting it with curry powder. Invented by Herta Heuwer in 1949, currywurst is a cheap and filling street food, with an estimated 800 million consumed annually.

Leberwurst

Leberwurst is a spreadable sausage made from pigs' or calves' livers, blended with spices such as black pepper, marjoram, thyme, ground mustard seeds, and nutmeg. It can be served as an open-faced sandwich with mustard and pickles or enjoyed as part of a traditional German breakfast spread.

Thüringer Rostbratwurst

One of Germany's oldest known sausages, with references dating back to 1404, the Thüringer Rostbratwurst has been granted Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status. It is made with finely minced pork, beef, and sometimes veal, with at least 51% of the ingredients sourced from the state of Thuringia. This sausage is typically roasted over charcoal or grilled and served as a sandwich or on an open roll with mustard.

German salads

German Meat Salad

This salad is a delicious mix of cold cuts such as bologna or German sausages, thinly sliced or shredded, and tossed with vinegar, onions, gherkins, tomatoes, cheese, and seasonings. It is a perfect blend of savoury and tangy flavours, and is a great option for those who enjoy meat but want a lighter meal.

Bunter Sommersalat (Colorful Summer Salad)

A vibrant and refreshing option, this salad combines crisp cucumbers and bell peppers with hard-boiled eggs, earthy mushrooms, and fresh herbs. It is a delightful mix of textures and flavours, and is a great way to celebrate the summer season.

German-Style Herring Salad

This salad is a colourful and tasty combination of herring, apples, and mesclun greens, dressed in a sour cream dressing. It is a refreshing and healthy option, and the addition of apples gives it a unique sweet twist.

German Potato Salad

There are a few variations of the classic German potato salad. One version includes vinegar, bacon, shallots, and herbs, while another uses a vinaigrette with bacon, shallots, parsley, and mustard. The Berlin-style potato salad also adds cucumber, pickles, bacon, onions, and herbs to the mix, creating a flavourful and crunchy dish.

German White Bean and Pea Salad with Prosciutto and Smoked Cheese

This salad is a nutritious and colourful option, packed with tasty ingredients. It includes German white beans and peas, prosciutto, and smoked cheese, and is served with wholegrain crispbread or sunflower seed bread. It is a quick and easy dish that is perfect for a light meal.

Schwetzingen Asparagus Salad

A springtime delicacy, this salad features tender asparagus with a creamy green herb dressing, topped with finely chopped egg. It is a simple yet elegant dish that celebrates the freshness of the season's asparagus.

Red Cabbage Salad with Bavarian Smoked Cheese

This salad is a colourful and tasty side dish, perfect for serving with sliced cold German meats. It combines red cabbage, onion, green pepper, poppy seeds, and smoked Bavarian cheese, creating a delightful mix of flavours and textures.

Grilled Asparagus and Beet Salad with Honey Mustard

A healthy and flavourful option, this salad includes grilled asparagus spears, beets, prosciutto, crumbled cheese, and pine nuts, served on a bed of mixed greens with a honey mustard dressing. It is a great choice for those who want a hearty yet light meal, and it pairs well with German fitness bread.

New Potato and Bierwurst Salad with Mustard Cream Dressing

This salad is a delicious mix of new potatoes, apple, lemon, German bierwurst sausages, pickles, and dill, tossed in a creamy mustard dressing. It is a unique and flavourful twist on a traditional potato salad, and is perfect for a summer barbecue.

Frequently asked questions