While beer is the main attraction at Oktoberfest, food plays a crucial role in the overall experience. The hearty, rich dishes served at the festival are designed to complement the beer, helping to balance the alcohol with substantial, flavourful meals. Bavarian food is known for its simplicity and depth, with most dishes focusing on quality ingredients and slow-cooking methods that bring out the best flavours. The combination of meats, breads, and fermented foods is reflective of the region’s culinary traditions, rooted in its agricultural and pastoral history.
Video Credit: My German Recipes
These dishes also foster a sense of community. The tradition of sharing large platters of food at communal tables encourages a festive, family-style atmosphere. Oktoberfest, after all, is not just about individual enjoyment but about bringing people together in celebration.
Whether you’re a meat lover, a cheese enthusiast, or someone who enjoys the tangy crunch of fermented vegetables, there’s something for everyone at Oktoberfest. From sausages to potato salad, each dish tells a story of Germany’s rich and varied food traditions, making Oktoberfest a must-visit for food lovers around the world. Here are some favourites that are worth a try.
Wurst
Photo Credit: Unsplash
Germany’s sausage game is unparalleled, and no Oktoberfest experience is complete without indulging in some authentic wurst. There are numerous varieties to sample, ranging from the mild Weißwurst (white sausage), typically served with sweet mustard and a pretzel, to the smoky and flavourful Bratwurst. Grilled and served with a side of mustard or in a bun like a hotdog, Bratwurst is possibly the most popular dish during Oktoberfest. There’s also the spicier Currywurst, which is topped with curry ketchup. The diversity of sausages represents the rich regional flavours of Germany, and they’re the perfect companion to a frosty mug of beer.
Pretzels
Photo Credit: Unsplash
A quintessential part of Bavarian cuisine, brezn, or pretzels, are an iconic Oktoberfest snack. These large, doughy, salted delights are often served with mustard or butter, making them the perfect snack to balance the flavours of beer. The soft interior and crispy, salted crust offer a satisfying contrast in textures. Brezn can be enjoyed on their own or with other dishes such as sausages and cheeses.
Kartoffelknödel
A staple of Bavarian cuisine, Kartoffelknödel, or potato dumplings, are round, starchy balls made from a mixture of mashed and grated potatoes. These dumplings are soft on the inside with a slightly chewy texture, making them a great pairing for rich meat dishes such as Schweinsbraten or Hendl. Often served with a rich gravy or alongside sauerkraut, Kartoffelknödel adds a comforting and filling element to the Oktoberfest feast.
Bavarian Roast Chicken
Photo Credit: Unsplash
For those looking for a simpler yet equally delicious option, Weisn Hendl is a fantastic choice. This traditional Bavarian roast chicken is seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices before being pit-roasted to perfection. The result is juicy, tender chicken with crispy skin, often served with potato salad or bread. The aroma of roasting Hendl fills the air at Oktoberfest, making it impossible to resist. It’s a lighter option compared to the sausages, yet captures the heartiness of Bavarian cuisine.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut, or fermented cabbage, is a beloved German side dish that pairs beautifully with heavier meats. It offers a tangy, slightly sour flavour that cuts through the richness of the main dishes, adding balance to the meal. Sauerkraut is often cooked with spices and sometimes even beer, enhancing its flavour. It’s not just a simple side dish; it’s a key component of the overall Oktoberfest dining experience.
Kartoffelsalat
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
German Kartoffelsalat is a comforting and versatile side dish often found on the Oktoberfest menu. Unlike its creamy American counterpart, Bavarian potato salad is made with boiled potatoes dressed in vinegar, oil, mustard, onions, and sometimes bacon. This gives it a tangy flavour that complements the heavier, meat-based dishes typically served at Oktoberfest. Some variations include fresh herbs such as parsley, adding a layer of brightness to the salad. Kartoffelsalat is the perfect companion to any roast meat.
Käsespätzle
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Often referred to as the German answer to mac and cheese, Käsespätzle is a dish made from soft egg noodles, layered with melted cheese and often topped with fried onions. It’s a comfort food staple, rich and creamy, with a hearty texture that makes it a perfect choice for vegetarians looking for a filling option during Oktoberfest. The noodles are often homemade, giving them a tender, chewy texture that’s different from pasta. The dish is decadent, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying, offering a break from the meaty dishes typically consumed during the festival.