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As the Germans Say, "Eat Breakfast Like an Emperor, Lunch Like a King and Dinner Like a Poor Man."
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People familiar with the European way of life often have a greater appreciation
of a true "light evening meal," as dieticians recommend. Although we often credit the European's overall healthiness to their intake of red wine and olive oil, there may be another factor responsible for their lean figures and general wellbeing — the custom of enjoying a light yet satisfying meal in the evening, instead of a large, heavy dinner. In fact, in Germany, eating together is more important than the meal itself!
Germans call their evening meal Abendbrot, literally meaning "evening bread." Usually served between 6 and 7 PM, the typical Abendbrot consists of a variety of deli meats such as black forest ham, and prosciutto and a variety of soft-ripened cheeses, spreads and relishes, or even perhaps a light salad or soup, accompanied by a selection of robust brown and multigrain breads and a selection of fresh vegetables. This buffet-style selection is attractively arranged on a wooden tray or board. By varying the foods offered on the "board," Abendbrot can be served every evening without becoming a bore!
The diet-conscious, can take shelter in the Abendbrot lifestyle as well. While eating a salad for dinner leaves many feeling deprived, and fast food alternatives can lead to weight gain, Abendbrot is both healthy and fast. On average, the American burger includes 10-69 grams of fat and 280-1,060 calories. In sharp contrast, the typical Abendbrot sandwich contains 7-13 grams of fat and just 209-250 calories. The difference is in the bread, not just the contents of the sandwich.
Hearty German breads are the focus in an Abendbrot sandwich, including only one or two slices of meat and cheese. German breads are made from whole grains and limit sugars, if any. The condiments, relishes, pickles, preserves, sliced vegetables, cream spreads and mustards, add a flavorful option.
This European practice is a surefire lifesaver for families on the go. Effortless to pull together, and pleasant to present, it's surprising how fulfilling, and easy, such a meal can be! Fortunately, we don't have to live in Germany to be able to partake of this original suggestion for preparing an easy, tasty meal.
Whether it is the ease of preparation, a desire to "eat healthy" or an alternative to the traditional meal, incorporating an Abendbrot provides an easy and creative alternative for home entertaining and family dinners.
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German Butter Cheese:
A creamy German classic. It has a distinct flavour but is not too sharp. It has a buttery taste and a creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
German Edam:
It has a mild creamy texture and it is great for slicing.
German Tilsit:
It has a mildly pungent aroma and a tangy taste that is delicate and fruity with spicy undertones. This German favorite is excellent in sandwiches, cold or grilled.
Limburger:
This pasteurized cow’s milk cheese has a tangy, creamy, Brie-like flavor with an incredibly pungent aroma. This perfume, which is caused by bacteria living in the rind, indicates a strong tasting cheese. However, Limburger is actually fairly tame, especially when you trim the rind. It is best when served with plenty of cold beer. Other good accompaniments are tinned fish, onions, crackers, fruits and vegetables.
Black Forest Ham:
This premium smoked boneless ham is the filet mignon of hams. Cut in one solid piece from the best part of the ham, its flavor and texture are unsurpassed.
Prosciutto:
Unique, delicate, mild and pleasantly sweet in flavor, Prosciutto has a deep color and is lean and tender.
Westphalian Ham:
A German ham that is made from hogs, which are fed acorns and raised in the Westphalia forest in Germany. The ham is dry cured and the smoked slowly over beechwood and juniper wood. The slow smoking process creates a dark golden pink, dense ham that has a mild smoky flavor. Westphalian ham is one of the best and is generally cut into thin slices and served raw.
Thuringer:
A pork sausage, smoked or unsmoked, seasoned similarly to salami.
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We always offer the finest selection of pickled vegetables, grained breads and fresh greens.
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