Besides protein, butter, cream, eggs and cheese are predominant. But take a look at the modern urban restaurants which are beginning to adapt to the more worldly trend of less protein and starch in the diets. There are lots of younger chefs paying attention to lighter, fresher foods. For leaner traditional cuisine, stick to the meats marinated in vinegar or wine. Whatever language you use, raise a toast of either beer or wine.
German beer is clearly the beverage of choice, with hundreds of varieties produced.
Part of the fun of traveling through Germany is tasting the wide range of these brews. Look for those with full heads that leave foam, known as Brussels lace, clinging to the sides of your glass. German wines tend to be sweeter and spicier than those of other European nations. The cool climate works well for white grapes but not for red ones, which are grown in only small quantities.