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Introduction: Dutch cuisine and its influences

Dutch cuisine, also known as Nederlands keuken, is a reflection of the country’s geography and history. As a nation with a long history of trade and colonization, the Dutch have been influenced by a variety of cultures and cuisines. The cuisine is known for its simplicity, quality, and freshness. Although Dutch cuisine has its own unique identity, it has been influenced by French and German cuisine over the years.

French cuisine: a significant impact on Dutch food

French cuisine has had a significant impact on Dutch food. During the 17th and 18th centuries, the upper class in the Netherlands embraced French cuisine, which was considered the epitome of elegance and sophistication. French chefs were employed in Dutch households, and French culinary techniques and ingredients were incorporated into Dutch cuisine. Classic French dishes such as escargots, boeuf bourguignon, and coq au vin were introduced to Dutch cuisine. Additionally, French wine and cheese became staples in Dutch households.

German cuisine: another major influence on Dutch dishes

German cuisine has also played a major role in shaping Dutch cuisine. The Dutch and German cuisines share many similarities due to their geographical proximity. The Germans introduced many dishes to the Dutch, including sausages, stews, and bread. Dutch cuisine also adopted the German tradition of eating “Kaffee und Kuchen” (coffee and cake) in the afternoon. Dutch cuisine also took inspiration from Germany’s beer culture, with many Dutch breweries producing German-style lagers.

How French and German influences changed Dutch cuisine

The French and German influences have transformed Dutch cuisine into a more sophisticated and diverse cuisine. The French emphasis on quality ingredients and techniques, as well as their love of sauces, has influenced Dutch cuisine to focus on using fresh, high-quality ingredients and developing flavorful sauces. The German influence, on the other hand, has resulted in the addition of hearty, filling dishes to Dutch cuisine. Additionally, the Dutch have incorporated German-style bread and pastries into their cuisine.

Popular Dutch dishes with French and German roots

Many popular Dutch dishes have French and German roots. Stamppot, a Dutch staple, is a potato and vegetable mash that can be traced back to German cuisine. Similarly, hutspot, another Dutch dish, is a stew of meat and vegetables that is thought to have been influenced by French cuisine. Another popular Dutch dish with French roots is bitterballen, small deep-fried meatballs that resemble French croquettes.

Conclusion: the ongoing influence of French and German cuisine on Dutch food

French and German cuisine have had a significant impact on Dutch cuisine, shaping it into the diverse, flavorful cuisine it is today. The Dutch continue to embrace these culinary traditions, with French and German dishes continuing to be popular in Dutch restaurants and households. While Dutch cuisine has its own identity, it owes a lot to its French and German influences.

Introduction: Swiss Cuisine

Switzerland, situated in the heart of Europe, has a unique culinary identity that draws influences from its neighboring countries, France, Germany, and Italy. Swiss cuisine is known for its simplicity, quality ingredients, and the use of traditional cooking methods. Swiss dishes are a reflection of the country’s diverse cultural backgrounds, and the culinary traditions that have evolved over centuries.

French Influences on Swiss Cuisine

French cuisine has played a significant role in shaping the flavors and techniques of Swiss cuisine. France’s proximity to Switzerland has allowed for the exchange of culinary ideas and ingredients. Swiss dishes like Quiche Lorraine and Croissants are well-known examples of French influences on Swiss cuisine. The French also introduced the use of butter, cream, and wine in Swiss cooking. The most famous Swiss dish influenced by French cuisine is the Fondue, which is made with melted cheese and wine.

German Influences on Swiss Cuisine

Germany’s influence on Swiss cuisine can be seen in the use of potatoes, sausages, and pickled vegetables. One of the most popular Swiss dishes influenced by German cuisine is Rösti, which is a potato fritter that is similar to a hash brown. Another well-known Swiss dish that has German roots is the Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, a creamy veal dish with mushrooms and onions that is typically served with Rösti.

Italian Influences on Swiss Cuisine

Italy’s influence on Swiss cuisine can be seen in the use of herbs, spices, and pasta. Swiss dishes like Risotto and Polenta are evidence of Italian influence on Swiss cuisine. One of the most iconic Swiss dishes influenced by Italian cuisine is the Capuns, a dish made with chard leaves, filled with a mixture of flour, eggs, cheese, and ham, and then rolled and boiled.

Fusion of Influences in Swiss Cuisine

Swiss cuisine is not just a blend of French, German, and Italian influences, but rather a fusion of these culinary traditions. The Swiss have taken these influences and made them their own, creating a unique culinary identity. Swiss dishes like Zürcher Geschnetzeltes with Rösti and Fondue with bread are examples of the fusion of culinary traditions.

Conclusion: Unique Flavors of Swiss Cuisine

Swiss cuisine is a reflection of the country’s diverse cultural backgrounds and the culinary traditions that have evolved over centuries. The French, German, and Italian influences have shaped Swiss cuisine and contributed to the unique flavors that make Swiss cuisine so delicious. Swiss cuisine is a fusion of these culinary traditions, making it a unique and flavorful experience. From Rösti to Fondue, Swiss cuisine has something for everyone.

Introduction: How Austrian and German cuisine differ

Austrian and German cuisines may appear to be similar, but they are distinct in many ways. Both cuisines are rooted in the regions’ histories, cultures, and traditions, and they share some common ingredients such as potatoes, bread, and meats. However, the differences are more pronounced once you delve deeper into the distinctive flavors, cooking techniques, and presentation styles of each cuisine.

Regional influences on Austrian and German cuisine

Austria and Germany are diverse countries with various regional influences that have shaped their cuisines. In Austria, the cuisine is heavily influenced by its former imperial capital, Vienna, which is renowned for its coffeehouses and pastries. In contrast, German cuisine is notable for its regional diversity, with each region having its own distinct recipes and cooking styles. For example, in Bavaria, a region in southern Germany, pork dishes such as Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle) and Weisswurst (white sausage) are popular, while in northern Germany, fish dishes such as Herring salad and Labskaus are more common.

The influence of neighboring countries on Austrian cuisine

Austria has been influenced by its neighboring countries, particularly Italy, Hungary, and the Czech Republic, in terms of its cuisine. The Italian influence is evident in the wide variety of pasta dishes, while the Hungarian influence is seen in the spicy goulash soup. Similarly, the Czech influence can be seen in the popular dish called schnitzel, which is actually a variation of the Czech dish called smažený řízek.

The role of traditional ingredients in Austrian cuisine

Austrian cuisine is known for its use of traditional ingredients such as pumpkin seeds, poppy seeds, and caraway seeds. These ingredients add unique flavors and textures to dishes such as pumpkin seed oil salad, poppy seed cake, and caraway seed bread, respectively. Additionally, the use of herbs such as marjoram, thyme, and chives is prevalent in Austrian cuisine, and they are used to add depth of flavor to dishes like Wiener Schnitzel.

How German cuisine is influenced by its regional diversity

As mentioned earlier, German cuisine is heavily influenced by the regions, and this diversity is reflected in its dishes. For instance, in the coastal regions, seafood dishes are popular, while in the eastern regions, dishes such as Sauerbraten (pot roast) and Königsberger Klopse (meatballs in caper sauce) are more prevalent. Similarly, in the Black Forest region, the cuisine is known for its hearty dishes, such as Black Forest ham and cherry cake.

The role of meat and sausages in German cuisine

Meat, particularly pork, plays a significant role in German cuisine, and sausages are a staple food. There are over 1,200 varieties of sausages in Germany, with each region having its own popular sausage. For example, in Bavaria, the Weisswurst is a popular breakfast sausage, while in Frankfurt, the Frankfurt sausage is a popular street food. Pork dishes such as Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle) and Eisbein (pork knuckles and ham hock) are also popular in German cuisine.

How German cuisine differs from Austrian cuisine in terms of baking

German and Austrian baking traditions are distinct, with each country having its own unique pastries and baked goods. German baking is characterized by its elaborate, multi-layered cakes such as Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest Cherry Cake) and Donauwelle (Danube wave cake). Austrian baking, on the other hand, is known for its delicate pastries, such as Sachertorte (chocolate cake) and Apfelstrudel (apple strudel).

Austrian vs German desserts: a comparison of sweet treats

Austrian and German desserts are both renowned for their sweet treats, but they have different styles of desserts. Austrian desserts are characterized by their delicate, light textures and subtle flavors. Sachertorte, for example, is a rich chocolate cake filled with apricot jam and topped with chocolate glaze. Similarly, Apfelstrudel is a delicate pastry filled with spiced apples, raisins, and cinnamon. In contrast, German desserts are more elaborate and decadent, with a focus on rich, creamy fillings and layers of cake. Black Forest Cherry Cake, for example, is a multi-layered cake with whipped cream, cherries, and chocolate shavings.

Apples are full of vitamins and minerals – every child is taught that. But in addition to the health-promoting ingredients, Greenpeace has now also found a number of different pesticides in the conventional apple harvest.

Greenpeace tests fruit

The environmental organization Greenpeace took a closer look at conventional apples from eleven European countries and tested them for their pesticide content. On the German market, 33 conventional apple samples and six apples from organic cultivation were examined. The samples for the German apples from 2015 were taken from Aldi, Alnatura, Basic, Edeka, Metro, Lidl, and Rewe.

The result

The sobering result of the study shows that no pesticide residues could be detected in only four of the conventional samples. The apples from the organic range, on the other hand, were completely unpolluted. Although the measured values ​​found were all below the legally permissible maximum amounts, they are not entirely harmless.

In its study, Greenpeace was able to detect up to seven different active ingredients in just one apple. So far, however, little is known about the interactions between the various pesticides.

Is there a pesticide tax now?

“Retailers, politicians, and producers must work together to reduce the use of toxins,” demands environmental scientist Christiane Huxdorff. According to the Greenpeace agriculture expert, one way of restricting spraying with poison in conventional fruit cultivation is a corresponding tax on pesticides.

The calculation is simple: the more expensive the pesticides, the less they are used. The cultivation of organic food already shows that spraying fruit and vegetables is not necessary at all. A rethink is urgently needed here.

Shocking news in the country of beer drinkers: The Munich Environmental Institute found the pesticide glyphosate in the 14 most drunk German beers

So much for the German Purity Law – in a test of the 14 most popular German beers, testers from the Munich Environmental Institute found the weed killer glyphosate in every sample.

According to the Environmental Institute, the values ​​found were between 0.46 micrograms per liter (µg/l) and 29.74 µg/l, in extreme cases almost 300 times the legal limit of 0.1 µg/l for drinking water. The testers found the most glyphosate in beer from the Hasseröder, Jever and Warsteiner brands, and the least in Augustiner, Franziskaner and Becks.

Which beers were tested?

The following beer brands were examined by the institute:

  • Krombacher
  • Oettinger
  • Bitburger
  • Veltina
  • Becks
  • Paulaner
  • Warsteiner
  • Hasseroder
  • Radeberger
  • Erdinger
  • Augustinian
  • Franciscan
  • king
  • ever

How does glyphosate get into beer?

Glyphosate is the most widely used weed killer in the world. It is also used in a basic ingredient of every beer, namely malt made from barley or wheat, according to the Environmental Institute “in large quantities”.

In the case of grain intended for brewing purposes, “the use of glyphosate to accelerate the ripening process shortly before harvest (…) is prohibited. (…) Stubble treatment, use after harvest and before sowing or until shortly after sowing, however, is permitted.”

How dangerous is glyphosate?

“In absolute numbers, the measured amounts of glyphosate are small,” says the environmental institute. There is no legal limit for the beer itself, only for its ingredients. Here, the values ​​measured by the institute are well below the limit values, for example for malt.

However, the authors of the environmental institute are of the opinion that weed killers have no place in beer, regardless of the concentration.

Experts are by no means clear about how dangerous glyphosate, which was developed by the Monsanto group in the 1970s, really is: while the World Health Organization (WHO) classifies it as “probably carcinogenic”, the experts at the EU Food Safety Authority (EFSA) consider it “probably not carcinogenic”. The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) also shares this opinion but continues to research the plant toxin.

Even if the concentration measured is small and the risk posed by glyphosate has not yet been clarified, the fact that a pesticide is found in a drink that is consumed so often should give us food for thought. As a consequence of the test results, the environmental institute has launched the “Glyphosate out of beer” initiative.

A classic from German cuisine and also a Berlin original: Bulette with mustard and bread rolls and a freshly tapped beer.

Ingredients for 4 meatballs

  • 250 g minced pork or mixed minced meat
  • 1 egg
  • 1 onion
  • 2 old rolls
  • 1 level tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • possibly caraway

Preparation of the meatballs

  1. Finely dice the onions and soak the buns in the water.
  2. Knead the onions, minced meat, spices, egg, and the soaked bread roll well in a bowl.
  3. In the meantime, heat oil, butter, or margarine in a pan for frying the meatballs.
  4. Form approx. 4 meatballs with wet hands. The meatballs should be flat so they don’t take too long to cook.
  5. Fry on both sides over medium heat until brown and crispy.

Useful additional knowledge

  • If there are no old rolls in the house, the meatballs also work with toast.
  • If the dough is too Or kneads some breadcrumbs under the dough
  • Add a little water or instant broth to keep the meat dough from becoming too crumbly

Wedding soup is a recipe from German cuisine. The soup is an excellent wedding soup for party guests or a wedding.

Ingredients for 18 people

  • 750 grams of beef rib
  • 2 bunches of soup vegetables
  • 2 onions
  • 1 tablespoon peppercorns
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 4 eggs
  • 250 milliliters of milk
  • 1 grated nutmeg
  • 400 grams of long grain rice
  • 100 grams of raisins
  • 1 kilogram of carrots
  • 500 grams of frozen peas
  • 1 kilogram of white asparagus
  • 400 grams of uncooked veal
  • 1 pot of chervil
  • salt and white pepper

Preparation (ninety minutes)

Wash the meat and clean the soup vegetables, wash and cut into pieces snip.

Rinse and halve the onions and place them with the cut on the bottom of a larger saucepan and roast for about five minutes. Top up with four liters of water. Add meat and greens and then Season with salt, peppercorns, and bay leaves. Bring to the boil and cook on low heat for about 1 hour. Meanwhile, whisk together the eggs and milk, then season with salt and season nutmeg.

Set aside the eggshells five minutes before the end of the cooking time, allow the broth to clarify, and add to it. Divide the beaten eggs into four greased cups. I’m hot Let the water bath stand for about twenty minutes. Then turn out and cut into slices. Cut out small hearts. Rice in plenty of boiling salted water for about twenty minutes to ferment. Rinse the raisins, and fold them in. Drain and steam the rice. Then Peel the carrots and cook in boiling salted water for about fifteen minutes.

Then cut into slices with the colored knife. Pour in the thawed peas. Meanwhile, peel the asparagus and remove the woody ends. Cut the asparagus into small pieces. Pour the broth through a sieve lined with a cloth. Briefly boil the broth to let. Cook the asparagus in it for about ten minutes. Bratwurst mass as small dumplings
presses directly into the soup. Heat the carrots and egg custard in the soup.

Season the soup with salt and pepper. Serve sprinkled with chervil leaves and serve it with rice.