Germany Gänsebraten (Roast Goose)
Gänsebraten, also known as Weihnachtsgans or Christmas goose, is a roast goose recipe that epitomizes the family gatherings associated with the holidays in Germany. The traditional preparation of this dish is easy to execute but results in an impressively golden-brown goose that serves as the perfect centerpiece for any special meal. Aside from the fantastic taste, this dish also fills the house with the mouthwatering aromas of slow-roasting fowl.
Recipe Servings: 4–6
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
2 hours
Total Time
2 hours 30 minutes
Vegetarian
Vegan
Gluten Free
Dairy Free
Kosher
Halal
Ingredients
- 4½ lbs (2 kg) goose, cleaned and dressed
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Dried thyme, to taste
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and quartered
- 1 small onion, cut into ¼-inch (6-mm) strips
- 1 cup (240 ml) salted water
- 2 Tbsp (15 g) all-purpose flour
- 14 oz (420 ml) chicken broth
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and dry the goose.
- Sprinkle inside of goose with salt, black pepper, and thyme.
- Fill goose with apples and onion.
- Pour salt water into the bottom of a roasting pan and place a rack in the pan.
- Use sharp knife to pierce the goose skin in several places.
- Place goose breast-side down on roasting rack.
- Cook goose for about 50 minutes.
- Baste goose with salt water several times throughout the cooking process. If necessary, add more water to the roasting pan.
- Turn goose onto its back and cook for 50 minutes, basting as needed.
- Remove goose from the oven and let it rest for about 5–10 minutes.
- Prepare gravy by heating 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of the drippings with the flour in a small saucepan.
- Pour in chicken broth slowly, stirring constantly.
- Season sauce with salt, black pepper, and thyme to taste.
- Serve goose whole with the gravy and a side of the roasted apples and onion.
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