Delicious winter dishes: Discover delicacies from Schleswig-Holstein

Kale - the northern winter vegetable

When the first frost has passed over the fields, the kale season begins in Schleswig-Holstein. Kale is one of the region's most popular winter dishes and is often served with smoked pork or sausages. A hallmark of Schleswig-Holstein's preparation is the robust seasoning of the kale, which is simmered for hours until it achieves a soft, creamy consistency. Traditionally, the dish is accompanied by salted potatoes that perfectly complement the kale's intense flavor.

For those craving kale this season, the Forstbaumschule Kiel offers a special treat: a dedicated kale menu featuring both creative dishes and classic favorites centered around this popular winter vegetable. The historic restaurant invites you to explore the versatility of kale — a must for anyone who wants to enjoy this hearty North German experience in a convivial setting.

Lübeck marzipan - a sweet temptation

Marzipan from Lübeck is renowned worldwide for its quality and unique taste. The traditional recipe, based on almonds and sugar, has a centuries-long history in the Hanseatic city. Especially in winter, marzipan reveals its full diversity: from delicate pralines and classic marzipan breads to festive creations. 

For marzipan lovers, the Christmas season offers a special treat: follow the delicious aroma of freshly baked almond pastries and marzipan-stuffed baked apples straight to Café Niederegger on Breite Straße. Here, you'll find the festive Christmas world of the city's oldest marzipan producer, where you can choose from over 300 seasonal marzipan gifts. The Christmas market provides the perfect opportunity to select sweet souvenirs for friends and family or indulge yourself on cold winter days.

Holsteiner Klöben - Traditional festive pastry

Holsteiner Klöben is a typical North German festive pastry that is particularly popular at Christmas time and in winter. This sweet yeast loaf, filled with raisins, almonds, candied lemon peel and often a hint of rum or vanilla, exudes a wonderful, Christmassy aroma. Originally, the Klöben was mainly found on the tables of Schleswig-Holstein on public holidays and during Advent.

If you want to enjoy this traditional pastry in its best form, you will find it at the Bäckerei Ebsen. Here, the Holsteiner Klöben is baked according to an old recipe and offered alongside delicious Stollen as the perfect accompaniment to the winter season. Whether enjoyed in thick slices with butter or plain with a cup of coffee, a visit to Ebsen is the ideal way to savor this regional delicacy in its highest quality.

Roast goose - a festive meal for cold days

A juicy roast goose is a quintessential part of winter in Schleswig-Holstein and a cherished tradition for many families during Christmas. The goose is traditionally stuffed with apples, onions and herbs and roasted in the oven for hours until the meat is tender and the skin is golden brown and crispy. Typical side dishes such as red cabbage, dumplings or potatoes and a hearty gravy round off the feast perfectly.

For a particularly festive experience, we recommend a visit to Gut Pronstorf, where you can enjoy the roast goose at an atmospherically decorated table. Alternatively, the estate also offers the option to pre-order roast goose for takeaway, allowing you to enjoy this Schleswig-Holstein tradition either in the cozy ambiance of Gut Pronstorf or from the comfort of your own home.

Sea buckthorn punch - the taste of the north in a cup

Sea buckthorn, with its bright orange berries, is widespread in Schleswig-Holstein, especially on the coast. These small berries are not only visually striking but also packed with vitamin C. Especially in winter, when the immune system is particularly challenged, the vitamin C from sea buckthorn is a valuable contribution to supporting health.

Sea buckthorn punch is a fruity-sweet hot drink with a slightly tart, fruity taste that is perfect for the cold season and is often enjoyed as an alcohol-free alternative to mulled wine.

A special place to go for sea buckthorn lovers is the Wohlenberger Sanddorn Hofladen. Here you can try the punch on the spot and experience the intense aromas of the freshly prepared drink for yourself. If you want to take the taste of the north home with you, you can conveniently order the sea buckthorn punch from the farm store's online store.

Schleswig-Holstein offers not only picturesque winter landscapes but also a culinary variety that warms both body and soul. The dishes presented here are just a glimpse into the delicious traditions of the North—perfect for indulging on cold days. Discover these specialties in local establishments or try your hand at recreating them in your own kitchen. This way, winter is sure to become a delightful experience!

Enjoy your meal and happy indulging!