Let’s talk about food! Delicious food! Because that’s what I’m sharing today.
German pork knuckle, known as Schweinshaxe, is a traditional Bavarian dish that holds a venerable place in German culinary history. Typically slow-roasted until the meat is tender and the skin is exquisitely crispy, Schweinshaxe has its roots in rustic, medieval cuisine, where it served as a hearty, satisfying meal for laborers and locals alike.
Over centuries, the dish has evolved but remains a staple at German beer halls and festive occasions like Oktoberfest. Its rich, savory flavors, highlighted by the crispy crackling and succulent meat, make it a beloved delicacy that showcases the best of Bavarian fare.
Whether served with sauerkraut, potatoes, or a cold beer, Schweinshaxe stands as a testament to Germany’s enduring culinary traditions.
In this article, we’re talking everything Schweinshaxe including a great Schweinshaxe/German Pork Knuckle recipe so you can be enjoying German food at home whenever you like
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The video below, presented by RecipeTin Eats, offers a comprehensive guide to preparing the traditional German dish, Schweinshaxe, or crispy pork knuckle, served with a savory beer gravy.
As noted above, this dish is a staple in German cuisine, especially popular in Bavarian regions.
There’s so much to love about Pork Knuckle prepared this way so make sure you watch the video for how to make this and read the summary below.
Crispy German Pork Knuckle (Schweinshaxe) with Beer Gravy by RecipeTin Eats
The video starts by introducing the main ingredient, the pork knuckle, and explaining its significance in German cooking. The host seasons the pork knuckle, ensuring that it is well-coated with salt and other spices to enhance the flavor. This step is crucial for achieving the dish’s signature taste.
Next, the video delves into the preparation and cooking techniques required to perfect the crispy pork knuckle. The pork knuckle is first slow-roasted at a low temperature. This slow cooking method allows the fat to render out, resulting in tender meat while the skin gradually becomes crisp.
The host emphasizes the importance of patience during this stage, as the slow roasting process is key to achieving the ideal texture.
While the pork knuckle is roasting, you are guided through the preparation of a rich beer gravy. The gravy, made using the drippings from the roasted pork knuckle, is combined with beer, onions, and other seasonings to create a robust and flavorful sauce. This gravy complements the crispy pork knuckle perfectly, adding depth to the dish.
As the roasting progresses, the temperature is increased to further crisp up the skin, giving it a golden-brown, crunchy exterior. The host demonstrates how to check for the desired level of crispiness, ensuring that the pork knuckle is cooked to perfection.
At the end, you can see the completed dish with its beautifully crispy pork knuckle served alongside the beer gravy. The host suggests serving the Schweinshaxe with traditional German sides, such as sauerkraut or mashed potatoes, to complete the meal.
Delicious!
Want to learn more about German food? Find our guide to typical dishes here and German dinner recipes here. You can also find all our German food articles here.