13 Best Oktoberfest Foods To Try in 2024
If you're heading to the biggest beer festival in the world or just want to get into the spirit of the celebration, you'll want to know exactly what Oktoberfest food to try. With so many delicious Bavarian specialties on offer, how do you choose between them all?
From traditional dishes like bratwurst and roast chicken to snacks, such as pretzels and German gingerbread cookies, the variety of Oktoberfest foods is staggering. Whether you’ll be attending an event or want to whip up some dishes in your kitchen, these are the 13 best Oktoberfest foods you have to indulge in.
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- What is Oktoberfest?
- 13 Traditional Oktoberfest Foods You Should Try
- Try Cooking Traditional German Foods
What is Oktoberfest?
Oktoberfest is a world-famous festival that originated in Munich, Germany and has since evolved into a celebration of all things Bavarian, with festivals across the globe. First held in 1810 to celebrate the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese, the festival attracts millions of visitors annually. While rooted in tradition, today’s Oktoberfest is known for its lively atmosphere, music and most importantly, the incredible array of food and drink.
One of the biggest draws is the Oktoberfest food, which reflects the heart of Bavarian gastronomy. The festival is typically held from mid-September to the first weekend in October and whether you're celebrating in Munich or at one of the many Oktoberfest events worldwide, food (and beer) is central to the experience.
What Food Is Served at Oktoberfest?
Oktoberfest dishes up a wide variety of hearty, traditional Bavarian foods that go well with beer. The most popular dishes include savory sausages like bratwurst and weisswurst, crispy roast chicken (wiesn-hendl), giant soft pretzels and tender pork knuckles (schweinshaxe).
You'll also find rich sides like potato salad, sauerkraut and dumplings. Desserts, such as apple strudel and gingerbread cookies, round out the Oktoberfest food experience, making it a true feast of Bavarian flavors.
13 Traditional Oktoberfest Foods You Should Try
1. Potato Dumplings
Potato dumplings (known as kartoffelknödel or kartoffelklöße) are a traditional Oktoberfest food that brings comforting flavors to any celebration. These soft, round dumplings are made from mashed or grated potatoes, combined with flour, egg and seasonings. Once made, they are boiled until tender.
Potato dumplings are a staple of the Oktoberfest menu because of their satisfying, filling nature, making them perfect for balancing out the festival’s abundance of beer. Their simple yet delicious taste and the relative ease of the recipe mean they are also a popular choice for those looking for Oktoberfest food ideas to recreate at home.
2. Potato Pancakes
Potato pancakes, known as reibekuchen or kartoffelpuffer in German, are a beloved Oktoberfest recipe made from fried grated potatoes, flour and onions. During Oktoberfest, German potato pancakes are often enjoyed alongside beer and other festival foods. Whether served with sausages or eaten on their own, potato pancakes are a must-try item on the Oktoberfest menu, embodying the rustic, homey appeal of Bavarian cuisine.
3. Pork Knuckle
A Bavarian Oktoberfest specialty, pork knuckle or schweinshaxe, is slow-roasted until the skin is golden and crispy, while the inside remains juicy and rich with flavor. Traditionally, it’s served with sides like sauerkraut, potato dumplings and a rich, hearty gravy, making it a filling and satisfying dish to enjoy between sips from a cold stein of beer.
4. Soft Pretzels
Soft pretzels, known as brezn in Bavaria, are an iconic Oktoberfest food. These large, twisted pieces of dough are baked to a golden-brown color and have a soft, chewy interior with a lightly crisp crust.
Traditionally, they're sprinkled with coarse salt, which complements the mild flavor of the dough. During Oktoberfest, soft pretzels are often enjoyed on their own as a snack or paired with mustard, pretzel dip and, of course, beer.
5. Roast Chicken
For classic Oktoberfest food, try roast chicken or wiesn-hendl. This Bavarian dish is traditionally prepared by roasting whole chickens seasoned with a blend of herbs, salt and paprika.
This is one of the most filling and satisfying dishes for sharing on the Oktoberfest menu. It perfectly complements the lively, communal atmosphere of the event, offering festival-goers a hearty meal as they celebrate.
6. Potato Salad
You can’t make an Oktoberfest food list without mentioning potato salad. Traditionally, Bavarian potato salad is made with boiled potatoes, onions and a tangy vinegar-based dressing. It is often lifted with a touch of mustard and bacon can be added for extra flavor. This dish is usually served warm or at room temperature, complementing the rich and hearty flavors of other Oktoberfest food items.
7. Pork Sausage
Pork sausage, a staple of the Oktoberfest food lineup, is traditionally enjoyed in a variety of styles, with bratwurst and weisswurst being particularly popular. Bratwurst, made from coarsely ground pork, is grilled and often served with mustard and sauerkraut. Weisswurst, a lighter, milder sausage made from minced pork and veal, is typically boiled and enjoyed with sweet mustard.
8. Spätzle
Spätzle is a much-loved German noodle dish that is another essential Oktoberfest food. These soft, egg-based dumplings have a rich, tender texture and are often served as a side dish or main course.
Spätzle can be enjoyed with a variety of accompaniments, including savory meats like schnitzel or pork knuckles. They are often topped with melted cheese to make käsespätzle, a truly comforting, creamy dish.
9. Sauerkraut
This traditional German dish is made from finely shredded cabbage that has been fermented and pickled. A tangy, flavorful side, sauerkraut is a staple of Oktoberfest food due to its long-standing association with Bavarian cuisine.
Sauerkraut goes well with sausages and pork knuckles, providing a crisp, sour contrast that adds zing to a meaty meal. During Oktoberfest celebrations, sauerkraut complements rich and savory dishes, making it a perfect addition to the festival's diverse Oktoberfest menu.
10. Lebkuchen
Lebkuchen, often referred to as German gingerbread, is made with honey and spices like cinnamon and cloves. It may also include nuts or candied fruits. During Oktoberfest, these cookies are not only a flavorful part of the Oktoberfest food lineup but also come in festive shapes and are decorated with colorful icing. This Oktoberfest dessert is often sold in charming heart-shaped designs with messages written on them, making them a popular souvenir.
11. Red Cabbage
Red cabbage, known for its vibrant color and sweet-tart flavor, is a side dish braised with apples, onions and a hint of vinegar or red wine. This flavorful dish complements the rich main courses commonly found at Oktoberfest. The bright red cabbage not only adds a visually appealing contrast to the plate but also provides a refreshing balance to the savory flavors of other Oktoberfest food.
12. Steckerlfisch
This traditional Bavarian dish features fresh fish, typically mackerel or trout, marinated in a blend of herbs and spices, then skewered and grilled over an open flame. The result is a smoky, flavorful fish dish. Steckerlfisch is often enjoyed at Oktoberfest as a delicious alternative to the heavier, meatier fare commonly associated with the festival.
13. German Beer
Although technically a drink not an Oktoberfest food, German beer is at the heart of Oktoberfest festivities. Usually served in one-liter steins, this beer is renowned for its quality and adherence to the Reinheitsgebot or German Beer Purity Law, which stipulates the use of only water, barley and hops.
During Oktoberfest, the beer is typically a märzen, a rich, malty lager brewed in March and enjoyed throughout the festival. Its smooth, full-bodied flavor pairs perfectly with the hearty dishes served at the event. The communal nature of drinking from large steins adds to the festive atmosphere, making German beer not just a beverage, but a central element of the Oktoberfest celebration.
Try Cooking Traditional German Foods
Cooking classes offer an engaging and interactive way to explore new cuisines, including the delightful dishes featured as part of the Oktoberfest food menu. Whether you’re interested in mastering classic German recipes or trying your hand at other international dishes, cooking classes provide hands-on experience and expert guidance.
To dive into the world of Oktoberfest food and other global cuisines, check out cooking classes near you that offer specialized courses in German and Oktoberfest dishes. These local classes provide an immersive experience, allowing you to learn from skilled chefs and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow food enthusiasts.
Alternatively, if you prefer the flexibility of learning from home, online cooking classes offer a convenient option to explore various cuisines at your own pace. With these resources, you can easily start cooking up a storm and impress your friends and family with your newfound culinary skills.
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
Oktoberfest food offers a delightful journey through rich Bavarian flavors and hearty German traditions. From savory sausages and pretzels to spice-filled lebkuchen, there’s no shortage of culinary delights to enjoy during this festive event. So, as you raise a stein in celebration, make sure to savor the best Oktoberfest foods on offer. Prost!
For even more ways to explore your favorite foods, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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