Simple Recipes for Great-Tasting German Food

Even on our busiest nights, family dinner does not have to be boring. Sometimes we just need to step out of our comfort zone and explore the foods of the world.

When you're ready to explore German cuisine, you'll be delighted to know that many of the best recipes are also the easiest. From tasty butter dumplings to delicious butter cakes, and even a few hearty German meat dishes, you're going to have fun with these recipes.

Dumplings are delicious and these tasty little Butternocken are among the best. The recipe is incredibly easy and requires just five ingredients. You can freeze them and add the butter dumplings to any stew or soup you make.

It's common to eat fish on Ash Wednesday and throughout the Lent season and this German dish is sure to please. In true German fashion, this baked fish recipe does not shy away from bold flavors and horseradish is one of the main ingredients. The apple is a surprising addition as well.

The name is a mouthful and the dish is delicious. Let's go the easy way and call this traditional veal stew Zurich Ragout. It is a wholesome, veal and mushroom dish with a creamy white sauce and if you prefer, pork loin and chicken work just as well.

Germans love mustard and your family is going to love this quick and easy way to make pork chops. The chops are dredged in seasoned flour then fried before a wine and mustard sauce is constructed. One pan, a hearty meal, and a lot of flavors, what's not to love about that?

Favored in much of Europe, Quark is a type of cheese that is surprisingly easy to make at home. Since it is difficult to find in the U.S., you'll save money by taking on this recipe. It's can be used just like cottage cheese and it's a fun little project.

Many countries in the world have their own take on rice pudding. It's a satisfying and easy dessert and the German version relies on short-grain rice, vanilla, and sugar. It takes just minutes to cook up on the stove and the taste is great.

The Alsatian Apple Cake is not your ordinary cake. It has a shortbread-like crust that is filled with apple slices and vanilla cream. It's delicious and a favorite among German bakers. The best part? You might already have all the ingredients on hand. 

Seeking the ultimate coffee cake? Give this easy Butterkuchen recipe a try. It's a popular cake for morning and afternoon coffee time and a great alternative to donuts and muffins. It's a yeasted cake recipe that's done up jellyroll style, so it's also fun for avid bakers.