Würzburg is said to be the cradle of Pizza in Germany
Germany’s first Pizzeria is said to have opened in Würzburg 70 years ago. In the early days, it was mainly American soldiers who patronized the business. “At that time, no one knew what pizza actually was – including me,” Janina Di Camillo told the Main-Post, a local newspaper. The success story began, when her husband Nicolino in 1952 opened the first Pizza restaurant in Würzburg. … Continue reading Würzburg is said to be the cradle of Pizza in Germany
Prosciutto and Parmesan Cheese Croissants
Today’s breakfast featured delicious homemade croissants filled with prosciutto and aged Parmesan cheese. The simple dough, made with flour, butter, and Greek yogurt, can be easily prepared. Optional variations include store-bought puff pastry and alternative fillings such as ham or salami, Emmentaler or Gouda cheese, and additional ingredients like peppers and onions. Continue reading Prosciutto and Parmesan Cheese Croissants
German Fleischsalat (Meat Salad)
When away from Germany, I am craving the creamy meat and pickle salad I usually buy at the local Butcher as soon as I arrive back in my hometown Würzburg. The Fleischsalat consists of only 3 main ingredients, German style Bologna (Fleischwurst), Mayonnaise and Pickles Some of these Bologna’s I am able to buy at at our local Polish store or G-Mart. I have tried … Continue reading German Fleischsalat (Meat Salad)
Palatschinken, a sweet Austrian Pancake Dessert
Last October I stayed at an Austrian B&B near Salzburg. The Alpine looking home reminded me of my favorite TV show “Der Bergdoktor“. It was late afternoon, so I searched online for Restaurants near me, where I could eat some Austrian cuisine. An hour later I had a nice dinner with a Palatschinken Austrian pancake as a dessert The Racklwirt Guesthouse was very close, in … Continue reading Palatschinken, a sweet Austrian Pancake Dessert
King Ludwig II childhood castle, Hohenschwangau
My daughter and I enjoyed some beautiful, sunny days early October in the vicinity of Füssen near the King Ludwig II castles. Since Neuschwanstein was under renovation, we were looking forward to take a tour through Hohenschwangau castle, which was also Ludwig’s and Otto’s childhood home. After buying our tour tickets we proceeded to take a horse buggy up a semi- steep hill, with the … Continue reading King Ludwig II childhood castle, Hohenschwangau
The Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain
In the first week in October 2023, my daughter and I spent five days in Oberammergau in the Bavarian Alps. It was a Saturday, an especially warm and clear day with blue skies. I have tried several times to reach the Zugspitze which is in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, but the weather was not ideal, but today were perfect conditions We started out at the Bahnhof in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, … Continue reading The Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain
Pfunds Dairy in Dresden showcases exquisite vibrant tiles
Back in 2010 while visiting the city of Dresden I walked into Pfunds Molkerei. It is a historic dairy shop and known for its beautifully decorated interior. This fancy colorful Dairy features a collection interesting hand-painted tiles. The shop has been in operation since 1880 and is often referred to as the most beautiful Dairy in the world. Visitors can purchase a variety of dairy … Continue reading Pfunds Dairy in Dresden showcases exquisite vibrant tiles
Swabian Krautkrapfen, a stable on the table
Sometimes I get my inspiration while watching a German cooking show “Lecker aufs Land or “Landfrauenküche”. Six women from rural regions of parts of Germany cook for each other. At the end, the ladies rate each other on decorating the table and meals they prepared. These shows are on YouTube in German for anybody likes to watch. This time the show was in Upper Swabia … Continue reading Swabian Krautkrapfen, a stable on the table
A 1000 year old Cookie recipe that calms your Nerves
According to Hildegard von Bingen ancient written recipe that calms your nerves; the spices that are used strengthen the five senses: a clear vision, acute hearing, a fine taste of sense of smell and a sensitive touch Continue reading A 1000 year old Cookie recipe that calms your Nerves
Spinach Dumplings at the ‘Buzihütte’ in Tyrol
We ate these delicious Spinach dumplings after a short climb up a mountain to the rustic Buzihütte restaurant near Innsbruck, Austria. Afterward we sat with the locals and sang Continue reading Spinach Dumplings at the ‘Buzihütte’ in Tyrol
Marburg, a lovely old town with cobblestone streets and half-timbered homes
A large part of Marburg has many half-timbered homes that have been lovingly renovated and is today again showing its historical charm. My stroll through the picturesque alleys started at the Market square, whose striking Rathaus or town hall in late Gothic style was completed in 1527. I took a pause and shot some pictures of this magnificent building while waiting for the City Trolley Train. Continue reading Marburg, a lovely old town with cobblestone streets and half-timbered homes
A strange sight, Parakeets make their home in German trees!
An unusual sight indeed, and that in Germany! The mild climate makes it possible that you will see little Parrots/Parakeets sitting on trees in Northern Rhineland. On the Königsallee in Düsseldorf, for example, the “Halsbandsittich” or Rose-Ringed Parakeet (Psittacula krameri) has now become a part of everyday life. Continue reading A strange sight, Parakeets make their home in German trees!
Anneliese’s scrumptious “Apfelstrudel” or Apple Strudel
Whenever in Würzburg I visit my friends, the Schwarzmann girls. The sisters Margarete and Anneliese Schwarzmann and their parents (RIP) have a 100 year history in the hospitality field. They owned the Hotel and Restaurant “Stadt Mainz” in Würzburg where Anneliese has been the chef. Continue reading Anneliese’s scrumptious “Apfelstrudel” or Apple Strudel
Salzburger Nockerl, a sweet, light and fluffy Dumpling
Salzburger Nockerl are light and fluffy, they are delicate vanilla-flavored dumplings, which reminds me of a soufflé. Like so many wonderful Austrian desserts this dish has a long history. The Nockerl were invented in Salzburg in the 17th century. Eating Salzburger Nockerl in Cafe Mozart in the Getreidegasse not far where Mozart was born When preparing the Nockerl batter, the airy mass is arranged on … Continue reading Salzburger Nockerl, a sweet, light and fluffy Dumpling
Tübingen has a Rainbow Row
After a short stop in Ulm to take some pictures, I continued driving to Tübingen which is a University town in the center of Baden-Württemberg. It is located on the Neckar river, around 30 kilometers south of Stuttgart. Old town landmarks include the Rathaus (City Hall) at the Marktplatz (Market Square) and the castle, Schloß Hohentübingen, now part of the University of Tübingen Continue reading Tübingen has a Rainbow Row
Kaiserschmarrn, a traditional Austrian dish
Kaiserschmarrn was created for Kaiser Franz Joseph and Elisabeth (Sissi) in 1854. He always said “geb mir mal den Schmarrn her” so it was named Kaiserschmarrn thereafter Continue reading Kaiserschmarrn, a traditional Austrian dish
A Kaiser, his mistress and a Gugelhupf
One wonders if you have a genuine “Kaisergugelhupf” (Emperor bundt cake) on your plate at the Café. Only bakers and baking enthusiasts, who do a little research would be familiar with the true consistency of the dough. After all, we know there are many different variations on the internet, and there is very large collections of fake recipes among them Continue reading A Kaiser, his mistress and a Gugelhupf
Mittenwald in the Karwendel mountains
Mittenwald. A lovely and colorful Bavarian town, which is known for painted Facades on the buildings called Lüftmalerei Continue reading Mittenwald in the Karwendel mountains
Stift Melk and Dürnstein in the Wachau, Austria
While staying in Weissenkirchen, Austria, and the wine region of Wachau, we did day trips to Vienna, the castle of Archduke Franz Ferdinand (Schloss Artstetten), and took a day cruise to Stift Melk. It was a week full of history and sightseeings Arriving at our Bed & Breakfast “Donauhof” Hotel Garni in Weissenkirchen Wachau is a Wine region along the Danube, with a mild climate … Continue reading Stift Melk and Dürnstein in the Wachau, Austria
Crystal clear lakes awaits you at the Königssee
The Königssee is in Southern Bavaria in the Berchtesgadener Land. This lake has crystal-clear water and spectacular views to the mountains. Continue reading Crystal clear lakes awaits you at the Königssee
Würzburg, where I grew up
Every now and then we visit my hometown Würzburg. We rent a little vacation home, only 10 km down the river in Veitshöchheim, the town where I spent my childhood. Continue reading Würzburg, where I grew up
Spaghetti Eis, and it’s surprising discovery
Most Ice Cafés (Eisdiele) are owned by first generation Italiens. In the afternoons and weekend you see many people sitting outside enjoying the Sun and eating Ice cream. Spaghetti Eis was discovered, not in Italy, but in Mannheim, of course by an Italian The History Dario Fontanella, was 17 when he had this brilliant idea to press the Vanilla ice cream through a Spätzle press. … Continue reading Spaghetti Eis, and it’s surprising discovery
German Beef Rouladen
A favorite meal I prepare for guests while in the US are Rouladen. It can’t be found in many restaurants there. The best meat for Rouladen is Top Round beef, cut into 1/4 inch thin steaks The classic Beef Rouladen are certainly one of the most popular Sunday and festive meals in Germany. In home-style restaurants, it is a hit on the menu. My family … Continue reading German Beef Rouladen
Bavarian Pork Roast from my Childhood
As a child, I remember waking up on a Sunday morning to the smell of my mothers Bavarian Pork Roast in the oven. She would go to the early church service, and then roast the Schweinebraten while we were gone to the later mass. At noon we were ready to sit at the table or Mittagstisch. Continue reading Bavarian Pork Roast from my Childhood
Moist and tender Greek Yoghurt Peach Muffins
Greek Yogurt Peach Muffins have a moist and tender texture with a slight tanginess. I used Greek Yoghurt as a substitute instead of the German Quark. The addition of diced peaches adds a juicy burst of flavor and sweetness to the muffins. The muffins are soft and fluffy, making them a delightful treat for breakfast or as a snack. The combination of the moist crumb … Continue reading Moist and tender Greek Yoghurt Peach Muffins
Homemade Limoncello
I sometimes enjoy a summery drink named Limoncello, found usually in Italy, straight from the fridge and on ice. When filled into pretty bottles with decorative labels, homemade limoncello is a great gift from my kitchen. This is how homemade Limoncello becomes particularly good:For the summer liqueur, we first dissolve the essential oils from the lemon peel with the help of high-proof alcohol. We then … Continue reading Homemade Limoncello
Air Frier Zucchini Fritters
Once in a while I go to our huge farmers market in town. Of course everything looks so great, and I can’t hold back, so I bought too many vegetables, especially zucchini and squash. I always like to try out new recipes and some Air Frier Zucchini Fritters came to mind Lately, I am staying from fried foods, instead using my Air Frier to prepare … Continue reading Air Frier Zucchini Fritters
Valentines Day, the Founder and it’s Origin
The 14th of February (Valentines Day) is considered the day of love and lovers in Germany and other countries. But why is that? You can read all about the meaning of Valentine’s Day, its history and customs here Every year on February 14 is Valentine’s Day. In Germany, and many other countries around the world, this date is used to give flowers and chocolates, to … Continue reading Valentines Day, the Founder and it’s Origin
“Falscher Hase” German Meatloaf
“Falscher Hase” or in German False Hare, refers to a meatloaf with boiled eggs placed inside. Depending on the regional origin, the minced meat mass might be seasoned differently. The ingredients can include for example, onions, bacon cubes or Mediterranean spices such as rosemary, and garlic. Tip: If you like Greek food, you can also try my recipe using sheep’s cheese instead of eggs. Different … Continue reading “Falscher Hase” German Meatloaf
Chicken Marsala, an Italian-American dish
Today I was pondering what to cook with my leftover chicken I bought the day before at Costco. I have eating Chicken Marsala at several Italian restaurants in America, and it’s one of my favorites. I was curious, why I have never seen this dish on an Italian menu while there Marsala Cooking Wine can be bought HERE on Amazon While doing my research about … Continue reading Chicken Marsala, an Italian-American dish