Obatzda
A classic Bavarian cheese spread, perfect for beer gardens and gatherings. It's a delicious, creamy, and slightly spicy blend of ripe Camembert, butter, and cream cheese, seasoned with paprika and often topped with fresh onions.
🧂 Ingredients
- 200 g Ripe Camembert cheese
- 100 g Unsalted butter
- 100 g Cream cheese
- 2 tsp Sweet paprika
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper
- 0.5 medium Red onion
- for serving Pretzels or crusty bread
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Camembert: Remove the Camembert from its packaging. If the rind is particularly thick or firm, you can trim it, but it's generally left on. Place the Camembert in a medium-sized bowl.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 2
Mash the Camembert: Using a fork or a potato masher, thoroughly mash the Camembert until it's relatively smooth and spreadable. There might be small lumps, which is fine.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Incorporate butter and cream cheese: Add the softened butter and softened cream cheese to the bowl with the mashed Camembert. Mix everything together with the fork or masher until well combined and creamy. The mixture should be homogenous.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Season the spread: Stir in the sweet paprika, salt, and black pepper. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning as needed. You might want a little more paprika for a deeper color and flavor, or more salt if the cheese isn't salty enough.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 5
Chill (optional but recommended): For best results, cover the bowl and refrigerate the Obatzda for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the spread to firm up slightly, making it easier to serve.
⏱️ 30 minutes (optional) - 6
Serve: Transfer the Obatzda to a serving bowl. Top generously with the finely chopped red onion. Serve immediately with fresh pretzels, crusty bread, or radishes.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use very ripe Camembert for the creamiest texture and most intense flavor.
- ✓Ensure both the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy mixing.
- ✓A pinch of caraway seeds can be added for an extra layer of flavor.
- ✓Obatzda is a staple at Bavarian beer gardens and festivals.
- ✓Serve with a variety of accompaniments like radishes, pickles, or different types of bread.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a tablespoon of dark beer (like a Märzen or Bock) to the mixture for a subtle malty note.
- Incorporate a pinch of caraway seeds for a classic Bavarian flavor.
- For a spicier version, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a finely minced chili pepper.
- Mix in finely chopped chives or green onions directly into the spread, in addition to the topping.