Authentic Bavarian Obazda Recipe: A German Delicacy Uncovered

Ingredients

200 grams of ripe Camembert cheese
2 tablespoons of butter
100 grams of cream cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 clove of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of caraway seeds
1 tablespoon of paprika
2 tablespoons of beer (preferably German wheat beer)
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped chives for garnish
Pretzels or rustic bread for serving

Steps and instructions

Cut the ripe Camembert cheese into small pieces and place them in a large bowl.
Add the butter and cream cheese to the bowl and mash them together with the Camembert using a fork until they form a paste.
Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, caraway seeds, and paprika to the bowl and mix well.
Pour the beer into the mixture and stir until it's well combined.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and let it rest in the fridge for at least two hours.
Before serving, remove from the fridge and let it come to room temperature.
Sprinkle with chopped chives for garnish.
Serve with pretzels or rustic bread.

Tools for making

Large bowl - needed to mix the ingredients together
Fork - used to mash the cheese and mix the ingredients
Knife - required to cut the Camembert cheese into small pieces
Chopping board - used for chopping the onion and mincing the garlic
Plastic wrap or lid - needed to cover the bowl while the mixture rests in the fridge
Serving dish - for presenting the Obazda
Chopping board - for garnishing with chopped chives
Pretzels or rustic bread - to serve with the Obazda

Recipe variations

Replace the Camembert cheese with Brie or another soft cheese of your choice.
Add chopped pickles or pickled jalapenos for an extra tangy flavor.
Include a tablespoon of mustard for a tangy kick.
Add chopped cooked bacon or smoked salmon for a savory twist.
For a vegetarian option, replace the Camembert cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and use vegan butter and cream cheese.
Sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill for added freshness.
Replace the beer with white wine for a different flavor profile.
Spread the Obazda on a toasted baguette or crackers instead of pretzels.
For a gluten-free option, serve the Obazda with gluten-free bread or crackers.

Recipe overview

Obazda is a traditional Bavarian dish, typically served in beer gardens and during Oktoberfest. This creamy and tangy cheese spread is a perfect companion for pretzels or rustic bread. Made from ripe Camembert cheese, butter, cream cheese, onions, garlic, and a dash of beer, it’s a savoury treat worth trying. Our recipe also includes caraway seeds and paprika for an extra flavor kick. In this recipe, you will learn how to prepare Obazda from scratch. The process is straightforward and requires no advanced cooking skills - all you need to do is combine all the ingredients, let it rest, and it's ready to serve. The result is a rich, hearty spread that is sure to impress at your next gathering. Enjoy!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese, but keep in mind that the traditional Obazda recipe calls for Camembert cheese.
What can I substitute for beer? If you prefer not to use beer, you can substitute it with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic beer.
How long can Obazda be stored? Obazda can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make Obazda in advance? Yes, Obazda can be prepared in advance. Just make sure to cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Is Obazda gluten-free? The recipe itself is gluten-free, but it is important to check the labels of the ingredients you use to ensure they are gluten-free.
Is Obazda suitable for vegetarians? Yes, Obazda is suitable for vegetarians as long as vegetarian-friendly cheese and butter are used.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large bowl - for mixing and mashing the ingredients together
Fork - to mash the Camembert, butter, and cream cheese into a paste
Cutting board - for chopping the onion
Knife - to finely chop the onion and mince the garlic
Plastic wrap or lid - to cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture
Chopping board - for garnishing with chopped chives
Serving plate or platter - to present the Obazda
Pretzels or rustic bread - for serving and dipping into the Obazda

Origin stories

Obazda, a Bavarian cheese delicacy, originated in beer gardens as a way to use up aging cheese. Today, it's a staple in Bavarian cuisine. The original recipe typically involved mixing aged Camembert cheese with butter, beer, and a variety of spices to create a creamy, flavorful spread. Over the years, the recipe has evolved and now often includes cream cheese and onions. While Obazda is enjoyed year-round, it's particularly popular during Oktoberfest, where it's often served with pretzels. Its appeal lies in its simplicity, rustic nature, and the fact that it pairs perfectly with Bavaria's other great love — beer. The recipe for Obazda is so beloved in Bavaria that it's been granted Protected Geographical Indication status by the EU, meaning it must be made in a specific region following traditional methods.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.