The German Names of the 50 Most Common Spices
- Jens Olesen
- 12 hours ago
- 3 min read
Spices have played an essential role in cooking and culture throughout history, enhancing flavours and adding depth to culinary traditions worldwide. For German learners, knowing the names of the most commonly used spices in German is incredibly useful, whether for cooking, grocery shopping, or simply expanding vocabulary.
In this blog post, we will explore the 50 most common spices, their German names, and some background on their culinary uses.
1. Understanding German Spice Terminology
In German, the word for spice is „das Gewürz“ (pl. die Gewürze). Many spices have similar names to their English counterparts due to shared Latin origins, while others differ significantly. Here’s a comprehensive list of 50 essential spices, their German names, and how they are commonly used in German and international cuisine.
2. The 50 Most Common Spices and Their German Names
Aromatic & Essential Cooking Spices
Black Pepper – der schwarze Pfeffer
White Pepper – der weiße Pfeffer
Paprika – der Paprika
Chili Powder – das Chilipulver
Cayenne Pepper – der Cayennepfeffer
Salt – das Salz
Mustard Seeds – die Senfkörner
Bay Leaf – das Lorbeerblatt
Saffron – der Safran
Turmeric – der Kurkuma
Herbs & Green Spices
Basil – das Basilikum
Oregano – der Oregano
Thyme – der Thymian
Rosemary – der Rosmarin
Parsley – die Petersilie
Coriander (Leaf) – der Koriander
Dill – der Dill
Sage – der Salbei
Tarragon – der Estragon
Marjoram – der Majoran
Warm & Sweet Spices
Cinnamon – der Zimt
Nutmeg – die Muskatnuss
Cloves – die Nelken
Allspice – der Piment
Cardamom – der Kardamom
Vanilla – die Vanille
Star Anise – der Sternanis
Tonka Bean – die Tonkabohne
Ginger – der Ingwer
Mace – die Muskatblüte
Seeds & Ground Spices
Cumin – der Kreuzkümmel
Fennel Seeds – die Fenchelsamen
Anise – der Anis
Caraway Seeds – der Kümmel
Sesame Seeds – die Sesamsamen
Celery Seeds – die Selleriesamen
Nigella Seeds – die Schwarzkümmelsamen
Fenugreek – der Bockshornklee
Poppy Seeds – die Mohnsamen
Hemp Seeds – die Hanfsamen
Miscellaneous & Specialty Spices
Lemon Balm – die Zitronenmelisse
Lovage – der Liebstöckel
Boldo Leaf – das Boldoblatt
Wasabi – der Wasabi
Horseradish – der Meerrettich
Galangal – der Galgant
Juniper Berries – die Wacholderbeeren
Sumac – der Sumach
Fenugreek Leaves – die Bockshornkleeblätter
Savory – der Bohnenkraut
3. How to Use These Spices in German Cuisine
German cuisine makes extensive use of spices, particularly in traditional dishes. Some notable examples include:
Glühwein (mulled wine): Uses Zimt (cinnamon), Nelken (cloves), Kardamom (cardamom), and Piment (allspice).
Bratwurst seasoning: Includes Pfeffer (pepper), Kümmel (caraway), Muskatnuss (nutmeg), and Majoran (marjoram).
Sauerkraut: Typically seasoned with Kümmel (caraway) and Lorbeerblätter (bay leaves).
4. Learning & Practicing Spice Vocabulary
For German learners, remembering spice names can be challenging. Here are some useful techniques:
Label your spices at home in German
Practice cooking using German recipes
Use flashcards or apps like Anki to memorise names
Join German food forums or watch German cooking shows
Conclusion
Mastering the names of spices in German will enhance your vocabulary and make shopping, cooking, and dining in German-speaking countries much easier. Whether you are following a recipe, ordering at a restaurant, or learning about German culture, knowing these spices will be invaluable.
Did we miss any important spices? Let us know in the comments! 🇩🇪🥘
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