Indulgent Culinary Experiences Are Widely Popular in the U.S., Yet Rarely Enccountered in Germany's Food Culture
In the heart of Europe, Germany boasts a unique and rich culture that extends to its drinking habits. One of the most noticeable differences for travelers is the infrequent use of ice in beverages, a practice deeply rooted in tradition, practicality, and health beliefs.
Germans are accustomed to drinking beverages without ice, and this custom is deeply ingrained in their drinking culture. Many German homes have smaller refrigerators, making ice production less convenient compared to countries like the US. This, combined with a preference for undiluted drinks, results in a limited availability of ice for everyday consumption at home.
Another factor is the belief that ice-cold drinks may be harsh on digestion. Some research supports links between very cold liquids and bodily discomfort, making room temperature or only mildly chilled drinks preferable for some people.
However, it's important to note that ice is not completely absent from German drinking culture. Certain cocktails and summer punches do use ice, and bars occasionally serve spirits with ice cubes, often in the form of high-quality spherical ice.
For travelers, it's crucial to be aware of these cultural nuances. If you'd like a glass of water or soft drink with ice, you should explicitly request it when ordering. Saying "I'd like a glass of water, please" should be followed by "with ice" to get ice in your drink.
German cuisine, while not having the same cachet as French or Italian, is easy for most Americans to acclimate to. Familiar favourites such as sausages, sauerkraut, potato salad, strudel, bratwurst, schnitzel, cakes, pies, pastries, spaetzle, and giant pretzels are common in pubs, barbecues, food trucks, and cafeterias. Spaetzle, a type of egg noodle, looks like regular pasta.
Navigating Germany may require learning some essential German words and phrases to make your journey smoother. But with a little preparation and an open mind, travelers can enjoy the country's unique drinking culture and delicious cuisine.
In German homes, the lack of large refrigerators makes the production and use of ice less convenient, resulting in fewer opportunities for everyday consumption at home. While ice is occasionally used in certain cocktails, summer punches, and bar settings, it's essential for travelers to specifically request ice when ordering drinks to avoid any misunderstandings with their food-and-drink lifestyle during travel. As for the diverse German cuisine, it shares some familiar favorites with American taste buds, such as sausages, potato salad, and cakes, making it an integrated part of the lifestyle for many travelers exploring Europe.
