Oktoberfest

So often the best ideas are spawned from others.

The theme of this party is certainly not an original one by any means.

Oktoberfest is still very much alive and well in Munich. The festival draws millions every year to sample the local brews, as it has for generations. However, aside from seasonal beer ads on television, you rarely hear of folks “this side of the pond” using Oktoberfest as a reason to entertain. More should. This is a great party to throw in the fall … hearty food and casual fun with little effort.

Recently, we helped with just such a party, and what a great success it was. It was by no means “over-the top” fancy, and it was loosely themed.  

Although it’s not a prerequisite, the folks who hosted this particular party are actually of German descent. We didn’t ask how many generations back and all that …. who cares! If everyone can be “Irish” on St. Patrick’s Day, then everyone who desires to, can be “German” in late September, early October!

The outline was simple. German music playing outdoors on a Sunday afternoon. Fresh cider, sweet German wine and lots of German beer for folks to help themselves. Yard games and a bike parade for the kids. One very funny drinking game for the adults, involving both singing and pumpkin schnapps. Great combination!

And, of course, a hearty German buffet.

Oktoberfest Buffet

Charcoal grilled bratwurst with rolls and mustards

German potato salad with lots of crisp bacon

Barvarian sauerkraut simmered with sweet onion and apples

Assorted greens with mustard and cider vinaigrette

Warm home-made applesauce

The food is all pretty simple to make. There are many German potato salad recipes to be found. We always prefer to use new potatoes, either white or red, so that the skin remains on. This gives it a better look and texture. German potato salad is meant to be served warm. If necessary, though, it can be made ahead and warmed slightly in the oven with success.

The sauerkraut is the real key here. Simmer the drained sauerkraut on the stove with some chopped yellow onion and diced apples. Sprinkle a bit of brown sugar and cider vinegar in, and the result will be a much mellower version of the usually acrid side dish. To one can of kraut, add one small onion, one tart apple, one tablespoon brown sugar and one tablespoon cider vinegar. Allow this to simmer for 30-45 minutes.

German desserts can be tricky. So if streusel is out of your league, perhaps just a nice simple apple crisp with ice cream will satisfy the seasonal palate.

Guten tag!