Why is Germany the bread capital of the world?

You may be familiar with the image of the French with thin baguettes tucked under their arms; But when it comes to diversity, history and deep cultural roots, no one can match the Germans. In Germany, bread is not just a food; Rather, it is an integral part of identity, language and daily life. Germany’s bread culture is so rich and unique, with more than 3,200 officially registered types of bread, that UNESCO added it to its Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2015. (CNN)

Photographer: Unknown / CNN

The importance of bread in German culture is such that it also influences their language. One of the German words for “work” is “Broterwerb”, which literally means “earning bread”; A term that we also see in Persian language. Bread is present in all German meals, and traces of the word “bread” (Brot) can be seen in the names of these meals.

Why has Germany become a bread paradise? Part of the answer lies in the tumultuous history of this land. Until the 19th century, today’s Germany was a collection of small duchies and kingdoms, each with its own culture, dialect, and, of course, its own bread.

Photographer: Unknown / CNN

On the other hand, the climate in Germany is not as suitable for growing wheat as in the south of France or Italy. As a result, grains such as rye and German wheat grew better in these areas and became the basis for today’s dark, heavy, hearty breads that are still popular today. These heavy, hearty German breads, often made with sourdough and various grains, were ideal for cold, rainy days.

Today, local bakeries are the backbone of German food culture. While in many countries food trucks serve lunch, in Germany the real “fast food” is Brötchen; Small bread rolls filled with cheese, sausage or salad can be found in any bakery. The baking profession is also a highly respected specialty, and German bakers undergo high-level training courses.

Photographer: Unknown / CNN

Bakery culture is so alive that a special “German Bread Culture” postage stamp was released in 2018, and there’s even a popular children’s TV character called Bernd das Brot. The German Bread Institute also introduces the “Bread of the Year” every year, and Nussbrot has been chosen for 2025.

Photographer: Unknown / CNN

• Brötchen bread: Small white bread and the basis of German breakfast, which has different names in different regions.
• Whole grain bread (Vollkornbrot): Dark and heavy breads, which by law must contain at least 90% wholemeal flour and are usually eaten with cheese and sausage for dinner.
• Pumpernickel: One of the most famous German export breads, it is made from 100% rye and baked at a low temperature for a long time. It has a slightly sweet taste and a very dense texture.
• Pretzel: Rolled salty bread is a perfect accompaniment to various drinks, especially in southern Germany and the state of Bavaria.
• Sunflower seed bread (Sonnenblumenbrot): A lightly sweet bread topped with a generous layer of sunflower seeds, perfect for breakfast with cream cheese and jam.

Photographer: Unknown / CNN

Although big bakeries face challenges finding young workers, a new wave of bakers in big cities like Berlin and Hamburg are keeping this rich heritage alive and vibrant, relying on local ingredients and creative recipes. If you have a trip to Germany, be sure to visit a local bakery and invite yourself to a feast of flavors.

Photographer: Unknown / CNN

Which German bread do you like the most or would you like to try? Share your opinion with us and other Kojaro users.

Cover photo source: CNN Photographer: Unknown