Shopping in Germany as an Expat: A Guide to Grocery Essentials

Moving to Germany as an expat comes with many new experiences, including grocery shopping. While supermarkets here offer a wide range of fresh and high-quality products, some ingredients may be labeled differently than what you’re used to. Understanding the basics of German grocery shopping will make your life easier, especially if you enjoy cooking or baking.

Understanding German Flour Types

One of the first surprises for many expats is the way flour is categorised in Germany. Instead of being labeled as “all-purpose” or “bread flour,” flours are numbered according to their ash content. Here are some common types:

• Type 405 – The closest equivalent to all-purpose flour in the US/UK.
• Type 550 – Similar to bread flour, ideal for baking rustic breads.
• Type 1050 – A whole wheat-like flour with a richer taste.
• Type 1600 – A darker, high-fiber flour, often used in hearty breads.

If you’re following a recipe that calls for all-purpose flour, Type 405 is the best substitute.

Common Baking Ingredients and Their German Names

If you love baking, you’ll need to know the German equivalents of key ingredients. Here are some useful translations:

• Baking Powder = Backpulver
• Bicarbonate of Soda (Baking Soda) = Natron
• Cornstarch = Speisestärke or Maisstärke
• Yeast = Hefe (fresh yeast = frische Hefe, dry yeast = Trockenhefe)
• Vanilla Sugar = Vanillezucker (often used instead of vanilla extract)
• Caster Sugar = Feinster Zucker

Dairy Products: What’s the Difference?

Dairy products can be especially confusing because they come in varieties that don’t have exact equivalents in other countries. Here are some common ones:

• Schmand – Similar to sour cream but with a slightly higher fat content.
• Crème Fraîche – Thicker and richer than Schmand, often used in sauces.
• Quark – A fresh dairy product somewhere between yogurt and cream cheese, often used in baking.
• Sahne – Cream, but check the label:
• • Schlagsahne = whipping cream
  • Kaffeesahne = coffee cream (lighter than whipping cream)

Where to Shop for Groceries in Germany

Germany has a mix of discount supermarkets and full-service grocery stores. Each has its strengths, depending on what you’re looking for.

• Aldi & Lidl – Budget-friendly and great for essentials.
• Rewe & Edeka – More variety, including international products.
• Kaufland – Large supermarkets with a broad selection.
• Bio-Supermarkets (Alnatura, Denns, Bio Company) – Specialise in organic and health-focused foods.
• Turkish, Asian, and International Markets – Great for finding spices, herbs, and ingredients from home.

Finding Specialty Ingredients

If you’re looking for ingredients that aren’t commonly found in German supermarkets, try:

• Amazon.de for international food brands.
• International grocery stores in large cities like Berlin, Düsseldorf, Munich, and Frankfurt.
  

Conclusion

Grocery shopping in Germany can be a fun and rewarding experience once you learn the basics. Understanding ingredient labels, flour types, and where to find specialty foods will help you feel more at home in your new kitchen. With this guide, you’ll be able to confidently navigate the supermarket aisles and continue cooking and baking with ease!