7 Typical German Christmas Dishes

Over the decades, numerous typical Christmas dishes have become established in Germany, varying according to region and family tradition. The festive season often provides an opportunity to serve traditional german food. Below are the 7 most common Christmas meals – from traditional roasts to vegetarian alternatives.

1. Christmas goose with red cabbage and dumplings

The classic Christmas roast goose is one of the most festive dishes in December. The goose is often stuffed with a mixture of apples, onions, and spices and slowly cooked in the oven so that it becomes crispy yet remains juicy. Typical side dishes are red cabbage, bread dumplings or potato dumplings, and a rich gravy. This festive roast is particularly popular in families with high standards. To avoid the hassle and still enjoy a traditional dish, it's worth ordering a Christmas goose to go in Berlin.

2. Christmas duck as an alternative

Those who shy away from the effort involved in cooking a whole goose or want something a little lighter often opt for duck. The roast is smaller, cooks faster, and can also be combined with fruity sauces—such as orange or plum. Duck goes well with classic side dishes such as red cabbage, Brussels sprouts, or root vegetables, as well as potatoes or dumplings. In many households, it is the preferred option when fewer guests are expected or the oven is already occupied with other dishes.

3. Elaborate roast beef or pork

In addition to poultry, roast beef or pork has established itself as a festive Christmas meal in some regions. Roast beef with herbs and a dark sauce or a juicy roast pork with a crispy crust are considered more upscale options. Time is a factor in the preparation. Slow braising or low-temperature cooking ensures that the meat remains tender and develops its flavor. The roast is accompanied by classic vegetable and potato side dishes.

4. Game dishes with winter flavors

In rural areas or in households with a passion for game cuisine, Christmas dinner often includes venison, roe deer, or wild boar. Such dishes have an intense flavor that is complemented by dark sauces, cranberries, or chestnuts. Game stews, which are prepared hours before the festive evening, are particularly popular. The meat is usually served in a red wine or wild mushroom sauce, accompanied by root vegetables and potato side dishes or spaetzle.

5. Carp or fried fish

In some regions (especially in southern Germany), carp is a classic Christmas dish. It is often breaded and fried in clarified butter, served with potato salad or fried potatoes. Fish is generally a milder choice. Especially in households that don't want to eat heavy meals, trout, salmon, or carp are popular choices – sometimes even on Christmas Eve, to start the festivities on a lighter note.

6. Christmas Eve: Potato salad with sausages

One of the best-known Christmas Eve traditions is a particularly simple but popular dish: potato salad with sausages. Many families deliberately avoid elaborate meals on December 24 in order to have more time for the evening. The potato salad can be prepared with broth or mayonnaise. It is often served with Vienna sausages or other boiled sausages. This dish combines simplicity with coziness and is very popular in modern households.

7. Vegetarian or plant-based festive meals

Recently, vegetarian and vegan Christmas roasts have been gaining popularity as part of the trend toward conscious eating. Nut roasts, lentil balls, or seitan roasts with herbs are options for those who want to avoid meat. Spices, mushrooms, onions, and high-quality oils add flavor and richness. A good sauce (often with red wine, vegetable broth, and creamy components) is important to make the dish festive.