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No Biergarten menu in Bavaria would be complete without Obatzda, a Bavarian Cheese Spread. This savory cheese spread, often enjoyed alongside a hearty pretzel and a cold pint of beer, embodies the essence of Bavarian Biergarten culture. It is one of my favorite appetizers in restaurants and beer gardens in Munich and Bavaria. I’ll admit that it can be an acquired taste for some, but for me it was love at first bite. I remember being shown how to make this at the Evergreen Country Club, a private German club where I worked as a cook. The chef was a butcher by day from Germany and he made many of the dishes there from scratch. This was one of the dishes that I had not eaten before but immediately loved it. If you like cheese, and especially Brie type cheeses, you’ll love it!
Obatzda is a quintessential Bavarian cheese spread that is almost ubiquitous of Bavarian restaurants and beer gardens. This pungent and flavorful spread is commonly enjoyed in beer gardens across Bavaria and has become a symbol of the region’s rich culinary heritage. The name “Obatzda” loosely translates to “mixed” or “smashed,” reflecting the preparation method that brings together a delightful blend of flavors and textures. This creamy and savory spread is perfect for pairing with pretzels, rye bread, or even raw vegetables, making it a versatile appetizer for various occasions.f
With its rich and unmistakable flavors, Obatzda has become a beloved staple in beer gardens and homes alike, offering a taste of tradition with every bite. There’s not much better than a liter of Bavarian beer, Obatzda and pretzels on a warm and sunny day in a Biergarten.
What is Obatzda?
Obatzda, also known as Obatzter or Obazda, is a creamy cheese spread made from soft cheese, typically Camembert or Brie, mixed with butter, beer, onions, and flavorful spices such as paprika and caraway seeds. The mixture is then blended until smooth, creating a velvety texture that is both indulgent and irresistible. Traditionally served as a snack or appetizer, this Bavarian Cheese Spread is a popular choice for gatherings and celebrations throughout Bavaria.
Bavarian Cheese Spread Ingredients
The ingredients of Obatzda are simple yet harmoniously balanced, creating a rich and flavorful spread. The primary components include small diced Brie or Camembert cheese, beer, butter, cream cheese, raw grated onion, paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in contributing to the overall taste and texture of the spread.
- Brie or Camembert Cheese: The star of the dish, Brie or Camembert, is used for its creamy and slightly tangy flavor. The cheese is diced into small pieces to ensure it blends well with the other ingredients without being pureed.
- Beer: A little bit of beer to make it more spreadable. You can leave this out if you want.
- Cream Cheese: Further contributes to the creamy texture and provides a mild tanginess that complements the Brie or Camembert.
- Raw Grated Onion: Adds a sharp and pungent flavor, balancing the richness of the cheeses and butter.
- Paprika: This spice not only imparts a vibrant color but also brings a mild sweetness and smokiness to the spread.
- Caraway Seeds: Infuse the spread with a slightly nutty and licorice-like flavor, which is characteristic of traditional Bavarian cuisine.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these basic spices enhance the overall flavor profile of the Obatzda.
Preparation
Obatzda was traditionally made with a handheld masher, like a potato masher but is now more often made using a mixer or food processor. The key is to pulse the ingredients just enough to blend them together while maintaining some texture, ensuring the Brie or Camembert is not pureed completely. Here is a step-by-step guide to preparing Obatzda:
- Dice the Cheese: Start by dicing the Brie or Camembert cheese into small pieces. This helps in evenly distributing the cheese throughout the spread without turning it into a puree.
- Grate the Onion: Grate a raw onion finely. The grated onion should blend smoothly with the other ingredients without creating large chunks.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a mixer or food processor, combine the diced cheese, beer, butter, cream cheese, and grated onion. Add paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Pulse to Blend: Pulse the mixture just enough to combine the ingredients thoroughly. The goal is to achieve a creamy spread with some chunks of cheese remaining, giving it a rustic texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the spread and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Some may prefer a bit more salt or pepper, depending on personal preference.
Serving Suggestions to Pair with Bavarian Cheese Spread
Obatzda is best served fresh, accompanied by traditional Bavarian accompaniments. We always plate it with some sliced raw onions, raw radishes, some hard pretzel sticks, and some paprika sprinkled on top.
Here are some popular ways to enjoy this delightful spread:
- With Pretzels: The classic pairing, soft pretzels, and Obatzda are a match made in heaven. The salty pretzels complement the creamy and savory spread perfectly.
- On Rye Bread: Spread Obatzda generously on slices of rye bread for a hearty and satisfying snack.
- With Raw Vegetables: For a lighter option, serve Obatzda with an assortment of raw vegetables such as radishes, celery, and carrots.
- Beer Garden Style: In Bavaria, Obatzda is often enjoyed in beer gardens alongside a cold beer, making it a perfect accompaniment to a relaxing afternoon with friends.
Obatzda – Bavarian Cheese Spread
Equipment
- Food processor
Ingredients
- 210 grams brie cut into small cubes
- 100 ml beer, a wheat beer or a light lager or pilsner would be perfect optional
- 65 grams butter cut into small cubes
- 75 grams cream cheese room temperature
- 50 grams sweet onion
- 4 grams sweet Hungarian paprika
- 1 gram caraway seeds crushed
- 3 grams salt
Instructions
- Peel the onion and grate on the small side of a grater. If you don't like too much onion flavor you can squeeze out some of the liquid here.
- Place the brie, beer (if using), butter, cream cheese, paprika, caraway, salt, and pepper in the bowl of a food processor and pulse a few times. You don't want it to be completely pureed. It should still have some chunks of cheese.
- Remove from the food processor and add the onion, mixing with a spoon to incorporate it.
- Garnish with some sliced onions, radishes, pretzels, and bread. You can store it in the refrigerator for another day. It will keep for up to a week in the fridge. Just take it out for 30 minutes to soften before serving.
Notes
Obatzda – Bavarian Cheese Spread
Equipment
- Food processor
Ingredients
- 210 grams brie cut into small cubes
- 100 ml beer, a wheat beer or a light lager or pilsner would be perfect optional
- 65 grams butter cut into small cubes
- 75 grams cream cheese room temperature
- 50 grams sweet onion
- 4 grams sweet Hungarian paprika
- 1 gram caraway seeds crushed
- 3 grams salt
Instructions
- Peel the onion and grate on the small side of a grater. If you don't like too much onion flavor you can squeeze out some of the liquid here.
- Place the brie, beer (if using), butter, cream cheese, paprika, caraway, salt, and pepper in the bowl of a food processor and pulse a few times. You don't want it to be completely pureed. It should still have some chunks of cheese.
- Remove from the food processor and add the onion, mixing with a spoon to incorporate it.
- Garnish with some sliced onions, radishes, pretzels, and bread. You can store it in the refrigerator for another day. It will keep for up to a week in the fridge. Just take it out for 30 minutes to soften before serving.
Notes
FAQ:
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- While Camembert or Brie are traditional choices, you can experiment with other soft cheeses to create your own unique variation of Obatzda.
- How long does Obatzda last?
- Obatzda is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Can I make Obatzda without beer?
- While beer adds a distinctive flavor to the spread, you can substitute it with a splash of milk or cream for a non-alcoholic version.
- Is Obatzda gluten-free?
- The spread without the beer would be gluten-free, but be mindful of the accompaniments you serve it with, such as pretzels or bread, which may contain gluten.
- Can I customize the spices in Obatzda?
- Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences, adding more or less paprika, caraway seeds, or even a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor.
