Gänsebraten

01 / ABOUT THE DISH

About the dish

Gänsebraten is a traditional roast specialty consisting of a whole goose that has been brined, stuffed, and roasted to perfection. The goose is typically seasoned with various aromatic herbs and spices such as marjoram, thyme, nutmeg, lovage, cloves, or bay leaves, while the stuffing may include ingredients such as apples, onions, chestnuts, almonds, or bread. Slices of succulent roast goose are the best when paired with sides such as braised red cabbage ( Rotkohl ), gravy, apple puree, potato dumplings ( Kartoffelklöße ) or bread dumplings ( Semmelknödel ), potato salad ( Kartoffelsalat ), roasted chestnuts, sauerkraut, and spätzle. In Germany, roast goose is traditionally prepared for festive occasions, especially for St. Martin’s Day and Christmas Eve. The roast goose specialty that is usually enjoyed on Christmas Eve has its own name - weihnachtgans or Christmas goose - and it is typically accompanied by potato dumplings and braised red cabbage with apples.