Strammer Max: Germany's Scrumptious Classic Dish - A Complete Guide
When it comes to German cuisine, many people think of sausages and pretzels. However, Germany has much more to offer. One of the country’s lesser-known culinary gems is the Strammer Max, a simple yet scrumptious dish that has stood the test of time. In this blog post, we’ll explore the origins of Strammer Max, its variations, and share a mouthwatering recipe that you can easily whip up at home.
A Brief History of Strammer Max
The Strammer Max is a traditional German dish that originated in the early 20th century. The name “Strammer Max” roughly translates to “stiff Max” in English, and it’s believed to be a humorous reference to its hearty and filling nature. This classic dish became popular in East Germany after World War II, as it was easy to make and featured readily available ingredients. Today, Strammer Max is enjoyed across Germany and has become a beloved comfort food.
Strammer Max Variations
The basic components of Strammer Max are bread, ham, and a fried egg. However, several variations have evolved over the years, making it a versatile dish that can be adapted to your taste preferences. Some popular variations include:
- Cheese Strammer Max: Topped with a layer of melted cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
- Vegetarian Strammer Max: Swapping out the ham for a plant-based alternative or using sliced vegetables like tomatoes or cucumbers.
- Loaded Strammer Max: Piled high with additional toppings such as pickles, onions, or mushrooms.
What Bread to Usefor Strammer Max
For Strammer Max, it’s best to use a sturdy, flavorful bread that can hold up well to the toppings. Traditionally, German breads like sourdough or rye are the preferred choices due to their robust texture and distinctive taste. Here are a few bread options that work well for Strammer Max:
- Sourdough: This tangy, chewy bread provides a perfect base and a delightful contrast to the salty ham and rich egg.
- Rye bread: Dense and slightly earthy, rye bread complements the flavors of Strammer Max and holds up well under the toppings.
- Pumpernickel: A dark, hearty German bread made from coarsely ground rye, pumpernickel adds a deep, complex flavor to the dish.
- Whole-grain bread: For a healthier option, choose a whole-grain bread that has a sturdy texture and a nutty flavor.
Remember, the key is to select a bread with enough structure to support the ham and fried egg without becoming soggy. Feel free to experiment with different types of bread to find the one that best suits your taste preferences.
What Ham to Use for Strammer Max
Choosing the right ham for your Strammer Max can elevate the dish and bring out the best flavors. The ideal ham for Strammer Max should be thinly sliced and have a well-balanced flavor to complement the other ingredients. Here are a few types of ham that work well for Strammer Max:
- Black Forest ham: A German classic, this smoked ham has a rich, savory taste that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients in Strammer Max. Its delicate smokiness adds depth to the overall flavor profile.
- Westphalian ham: Another German variety, Westphalian ham is air-dried and smoked over beechwood and juniper branches. It has a slightly stronger smoky flavor compared to Black Forest ham and works well in Strammer Max.
- Prosciutto: This Italian dry-cured ham is thinly sliced and has a mild, salty taste. Although not traditional, prosciutto can be a delicious alternative in Strammer Max.
- Serrano ham: This Spanish dry-cured ham has a rich, complex flavor that can add an interesting twist to your Strammer Max. Its saltiness complements the other ingredients nicely.
You can also experiment with other types of ham, such as baked or honey-glazed ham, depending on your personal preferences. The key is to choose a ham that has a well-balanced flavor and is not too salty or overpowering.
How to Make Strammer Max: The Ultimate Recipe
Now that you’re familiar with the history and variations of Strammer Max, it’s time to dive into the recipe. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide for creating this delectable dish at home:
Strammer Max - Ham & Fried Egg Sandwich
Ingredients
- 4 slices Crusty Bread preferably sourdough or rye
- 4 slices Ham such as Black Forest Ham
- 4 large Eggs
- ½ cup Grated Cheese optional
- 2 tbsp. Butter
- Salt & Pepper to taste
- Fresh Chives for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) if you're using cheese in your Strammer Max.
- Toast your bread slices in the toaster or in the pan with a little bit of butter. Lay out the bread slices on a baking sheet or oven-safe plate. Place a slice of ham on each piece of bread.4 slices Crusty Bread, 4 slices Ham
- If using cheese, sprinkle a generous layer on top of the ham. Place the baking sheet or plate in the preheated oven for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and set aside.½ cup Grated Cheese
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the skillet, being careful not to break the yolks. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny. Season with salt and pepper.4 large Eggs, 2 tbsp. Butter, Salt & Pepper
- Carefully place a fried egg on top of each prepared slice of bread. Garnish with fresh chives, if desired, and serve immediately.Fresh Chives
