German Cucumber Salad (Gurkensalat) Recipe – German Special

German bagels, or “Fastenbeugel,” offer a delightful twist on the classic bagel. Unlike their New York counterparts, these bagels are made with a mixture of rye and wheat flour, resulting in a denser, heartier texture. The dough is typically kneaded by machine due to the stickiness of rye flour, and caraway seeds are often added for a distinctive flavor. These bagels are perfect for breakfast or brunch, offering a unique and flavorful alternative to traditional bagels.

  • Prep Time10 min
  • Cook Time15 min
  • Total Time25 min

For the Salad:

  • 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • ½ small red or white onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon salt

For the Dressing (Choose One):

  • Creamy Dressing
  • ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Vinegar Dressing:

  • ¼ cup white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon mustard (optional, for tanginess)

Prepare the Cucumbers:

1

Place the thinly sliced cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle with salt.

2

Let sit for 10–15 minutes to draw out excess water.

3

Gently squeeze the cucumbers and pat dry with a paper towel.

Make the Dressing:

4

In a bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for your chosen dressing (creamy or vinegar-based).

Assemble the Salad:

5

In a mixing bowl, combine the cucumbers, onions, and dill.

6

Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss gently to coat.

Serve:

7

Let the salad chill for 10 minutes before serving for best flavor.

8

Serve as a side dish with grilled meats, schnitzel, or bratwurst.

Recipe Notes :

Dough Consistency: The dough should be sticky but manageable. If it’s too wet, add a little more wheat flour until it reaches a workable consistency.

Caraway Seeds: Adjust the amount of caraway seeds to your taste preference. Start with a teaspoon and increase if you desire a stronger flavor.

Boiling Water: Ensure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the bagels. This helps achieve the characteristic chewy texture.

Baking Temperature: Bake the bagels at a high temperature to develop a golden-brown crust.

Storage: These bagels are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.