May 17, 2012

Making the Most of Asparagus Season

No other produce creates as much culinary excitement among Germans as white asparagus - der Spargel. Revered as the epitome of spring, its harvesting season even has its own name, Spargelzeit. The season starts about mid-April when the first crop is harvested and lasts through the feast of St. John the Baptist on June 24. Germans prefer by far white asparagus, which is produced by mounding dirt around the emerging stalks, depriving them of light, and enjoy them in a host of recipes which celebrate its unique flavor...» read more...

Wax Poetic About Food and Love

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In May both man and nature show a renewed interest in feasting, flourishing, and in love. Germans call it Wonnemonat Mai (merry month of May) and celebrate with May poles and perhaps a Tanz in den Mai (dance into May). Does the coming of May inspire your mood? We're asking our readers to rise to the occasion and write a short poem true to the saying Liebe geht durch den Magen (loosely, 'the way to the heart is through the stomach')... ...» read more...

Spring, Love and May Pole Robbery

One of the most ancient and beloved German customs of spring is related to a tree: the Maibaum or May tree. This freshly cut and colorfully decorated birch or spruce is the centerpiece of picturesque Southern German villages, folk dance festivals and open air Maifest parties. In the Rhineland, however, the Maibaum is also a coveted object of desire signifying love and yearning – and motivating nightly raids by mischievous tree thieves...» read more...

Spring Salads for Healthy Minds

Wake up your taste buds and welcome spring and with fresh, healthy salads full of crunchy cabbage, radish, cucumber, and herbs. Typical 'green, white and red' German salad recipes, such as Radieschen Salat (Little Radish Salad) and Selleriesalat (Celery Root Salad) support your body's health while they clear your mind. ...» read more...