There are traditional Christmas dishes in Germany that have simply been forgotten. Here are three of them that used to be found on almost every festive table.
1. Pig's Head
Pigs hold a special significance in Christianity, making it a traditional dish.
While roasted pork is still present on holiday tables these days, on December 24, pig's head was often served, especially in northern Germany. It was eaten with cabbage after the Christmas Mass.
There was a practical reason for this. On Christmas, pigs were well-fed and ready for slaughter. From this tradition (fortunately for many), only the classic roasted pork remains, which in many families has long been replaced by roasted goose.
2. Live Turkey
Different countries, different customs. Many nations, including the United States and the United Kingdom, have a large stuffed turkey for Christmas. This is still the case.
In Germany, it's rare to see this dish on anyone's table now. It has been replaced by more traditional and readily available supermarket products.
Interestingly, in Spain, this tradition went even further:
Turkeys were sold live in markets. Families brought them home, lived with them, and then simply slaughtered them for the holiday. For Christmas, the turkey was served as a feast. This unusual tradition can be a bit eerie.
3. Blue Carp
Carp is on the list of traditional Christmas dishes in Germany. As mentioned earlier, the Christmas fasting period lasted until December 24. Since believers refrained from eating meat during this time, fish was traditionally served on Christmas Eve.
Preparing the carp blue is an old custom that is now rarely used. The carp is carefully gutted but not scaled. This means that the slimy layer on the skin remains. By adding vinegar and herbs to the boiling water, the fish's skin turns bright blue. Carp is often briefly boiled and then eaten with horseradish, potatoes, and parsley.
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Following the traditional Christmas dishes in Germany, here are two sentences that contain the phrase 'Holidays in Germany':
During Holidays in Germany, it's common to see traditional decorations such as fir trees adorned with baubles and twinkling lights.
Visitors to Germany during Holidays in Germany often get to experience unique festive events like the Christmas market, where they can enjoy food, drink, and souvenir shopping.
