Top 10 German Seafood Dishes
German cuisine is known for its delicious array of seafood dishes. From the iconic Kieler Sprotten to modern takes on Gefilte fish, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Traditional recipes like Hamburger Aalsuppe and Steckerlfisch have been enjoyed for generations, while regional specialties such as Brathering offer a unique twist on classic flavor combinations.
Whether you’re looking for something traditional or something new, German seafood has it all! So why not take a journey with me and explore the top 10 seafood dishes Germany has to offer?
1. Fischbrötchen
Have you ever heard of Fischbrötchen? If not, you’re surely in for an amazing surprise. This Northern German specialty is a mouth-watering fish sandwich that will have you hooked from the very first bite.
The Fischbrötchen is made with freshly caught fish, typically herring or cod, and served on a crusty roll with onions and remoulade sauce. This regional dish is a tantalizing combination of flavors that will tempt your taste buds and leave you craving more. No wonder it has become an iconic favorite! You can find Fischbrötchen stands all over the coast, and it’s a perfect meal to enjoy while taking in the stunning views of the North Sea.
So if you ever find yourself in Northern Germany, be sure to give this local delight a try. Your taste buds won’t regret it!
2. Gravlax
Are you tired of the same old smoked salmon? Looking for something with more flavor and some zing? Look no further than German Gravlax.
This extraordinary salmon dish is a flavorful combination of pepper, fennel, and mustard seeds that provides an unforgettable taste. Prepared with just the right balance of salt and sugar combined with fresh herbs and spices, this cured salmon delicacy has to be experienced to believe it! After only a few days in your fridge, you can enjoy its deliciousness as part of breakfast or lunch dishes — or simply on its own!
No matter if you’re a seasoned salmon lover or are just looking for something new to sample, German Gravlax deserves a place on your foodie wishlist.
3. Rheinsalm
If you’re a seafood lover, you have to try Rheinsalm! This dish is a pan-braised salmon that is sure to delight your taste buds.
Imagine tender, juicy salmon filets, cooked to perfection in a savory cream sauce infused with aromatic herbs and spices. The result is a dish that is both succulent and flavorful — the epitome of culinary excellence. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weekday dinner option, or a luxurious dish to serve at your next dinner party, Rheinsalm is sure to impress!
So why not take your taste buds on a flavor adventure and savor this delectable dish? Trust me — once you taste Rheinsalm, you’ll never go back to plain-old salmon again!
4. Helgoländer Knieper
If you are a seafood lover and enjoy trying new dishes, then Helgoländer Knieper is a must-try. This regional specialty from the German island of Helgoland is not your average crab dish — it features giant lobster-like claws from the North Sea brown crab. These claws weigh in at around half a kilogram each and are full of succulent meat that is flavorful and tender.
Helgoländer Knieper is usually served with a variety of accompaniments, such as potatoes, salad, and a side of melted butter. You can find this delicious dish at many of the island’s restaurants and cafes where they offer fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
If you’re up for trying something unique, give Helgoländer Knieper a try — it’s sure to be a memorable dining experience!
5. Brathering
Have you ever heard of Brathering? No, it’s not a new type of dance move or a trendy fashion trend. Brathering is a traditional German dish made of pickled herring fried in a crispy batter. The perfect blend of tartness and crunch, Brathering is a beloved snack that can be found at local street fairs or served as an appetizer in German restaurants.
Brathering is certainly not a dish for the timid, as its pungent aroma from the pickled herring can be quite overpowering. But if you dare to explore and venture out with your taste buds, this savory delight will undoubtedly become an instant favorite! It’s an extraordinary way to dive into German cuisine — trust me — just one bite of Bratherings and you’ll be hooked.
So, the next time you find yourself in Germany or at a German festival, be sure to give Brathering a try — your taste buds will love you for it!
6. Kieler Sprotten
Have you ever tasted the delightfully savory flavor of Kieler Sprotten? These small smoked fish are a true delicacy in Germany, and for good reason.
The fish are typically caught in the Baltic Sea and quickly smoked to maintain their freshness. Despite their size, they pack a powerful punch of flavor, with a salty and almost meaty taste that is impossible to resist. The unique smoky aroma only adds to their deliciousness, making them a wildly popular snack or appetizer across the country. Whether enjoyed on their own, paired with a cold beer, or incorporated into a larger dish, Kieler Sprotten is a must-try for any seafood lover.
So, next time you find yourself in Germany, be sure to seek out these tiny yet mighty fish and indulge in a taste of local cuisine that will leave your taste buds begging you for more.
7. Hamburger Aalsuppe
Hamburgers may be the kings of the fast food world, but have you ever heard of Hamburger Aalsuppe? Though it may not have the same notoriety as its beefy variant, this classic German dish is a must-try.
Aalsuppe is a hearty soup made from potatoes, carrots, onions, celery, and smoked eel. Yes, you read that right — smoked eel! Don’t be put off by the unusual ingredient, the smoky flavor of the eel provides a richness to the soup that is utterly delicious.
The soup is typically served with slices of hearty rye bread, making it the perfect meal for a chilly autumn evening. So if you’re tired of the same old boring hamburger, why not give Hamburger Aalsuppe a try? You won’t regret it!
8. Rhine-Style Mussels (Muscheln Rheinische Art)
Mussels are a classic seafood delicacy, particularly when cooked up in Rhein style — with white wine and herbs. This ubiquitous dish is understood to have originated in Belgium in the mid-1970s, but don’t let its continental charm fool you, Rhine-Style Mussels can be found all around the world these days!
Best enjoyed with hearty chunks of crusty bread for mopping up that delicious sauce, this traditional seafood treat is as tasty as it is easy on the wallet from restaurant to restaurant. So next time you’re looking for an affordable, flavorful dinner you can be sure this dish will hit all the right notes — give Rhine-Style Mussels a try!
9. Gefilte Fish
Whenever Gefilte Fish is mentioned, thoughts of grandma or a stuffy Shabbat dinner may come to mind. But Gefilte Fish has made leaps and bounds in the food world, with many delicious and creative recipes to choose from.
From fried Gefilte Fish to olive oil Gefilte Fish served up with a wide array of innovative sauces, this classic dish offers something new at every gathering — delighting modern palates far beyond the traditional dish that grandma used to make. Are you ready to experience the beloved classic with a refreshing twist? Then dive in and enjoy some delicious gefilte fish!
10. Steckerlfisch
Have you ever heard of Steckerlfisch? Trust me, you’re missing out if you haven’t tried this culinary delight! Also known as grilled fish on a stick, Steckerlfisch is a favorite among many Germans and Austrians.
Crafting this dish is straightforward, yet the outcome is truly extraordinary. A fresh fish is cleaned and skewered onto a wooden stick before being slowly grilled over open flames. The wood imparts a delicious smoky flavor, while the fish itself remains tender and succulent. It’s common to see Steckerlfisch being sold at Bavarian festivals and outdoor markets, where people can indulge in this quintessentially German dish while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
So hop on a plane to Munich and try it for yourself. I promise you, it’s worth the trip!
Wrapping It Up
The traditional culinary delights of Germany are a true testament to Germany’s rich culture. From the unassuming Brathering to the adventurous Steckerlfisch, these dishes offer something special and unique that are sure to please any palate.
Whether you’re looking for an exotic seafood dish or just want to enjoy some classic German fare, you can be sure to find something delicious and interesting in the wonderful world of German cuisine! So why not get out there and explore all the great flavors Germany has to offer? I’m sure you won’t be disappointed!
Guten Appetit!
Check out our reviews of other seafood dishes from around the world.
