There’s a word you probably haven’t heard before – unless you’re from Germany, or you’ve been to an authentic Octoberfest party. It’s the real, original name for Beer Cheese dip. And you can make the real deal at home in minutes…
Beer Cheese has only become a North American craze relatively recently. But it’s been an Octoberfest essential for a long, long time…
What it is
“Obatzda is a creamy and addictive German beer cheese dip from Bavaria,” recipe contributor Sophie Sadler tells us. “It’s made from Camembert cheese (a soft-ripened cheese similar to Brie), cream cheese, butter, onions, chives, spices and beer.”
“The beer is optional, but I think it real-ly brings the flavors together. Obatzda is commonly served alongside pretzels. It’s also great [spread on] fresh bread or for dipping crudites [such as] bell pep-per slices, cucumber slices or radishes.”
Orange Camembert?
No. It’s a healthy dose of Sweet Paprika that gives Obatzda its characteristic colour. And really defines its flavour. Bet you thought Sophie was making her dip from Cheddar – or, worse yet, American (processed) cheese. So did I, at first… But that would be Octoberfest heresy!
What you need
The ingredients list for this recipe is short and to the point: Camembert and regular cream cheese; butter; chopped chives; finely chopped onion; Sweet Paprika; and a dash or two of beer to thin the mixture to optimal dipping/spreading consistency.
What you do
Couldn’t be simpler:
Just bring all the ingredients to room temperature. They won’t blend into a smooth, uniform dip if you don’t.
“Using a fork, mash together the cheese, cream cheese and butter until you have a chunky paste-like consistency.”
Add the onions, chives and paprika and continue mixing until combined.
Finally, add just enough beer to bring the dip to a spreadable consistency. Add more beer if using as a dip…
Garnish with a dusting of Paprika and a generous scattering of chives.
My take
It’s just not a real Octoberfest party without Beer, Pretzels and Obatzda. Everything else on the menu is secondary. Supporting actors.
And don’t play down Sophie’s suggestions for other applications. Octoberfest comes just once a year. But Obatzda can be savoured in any season, on almost anything. The 10 minutes it takes to whip up a batch of this classic German delicacy will reward you with an eternity of pleasure…
~ Maggie J.