Gänsebraten (Roast Goose)

Gänsebraten

Gänsebraten is a dish associated with the holidays in Germany.

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: Serves 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

4 1/2 lb (2 kg) goose, cleaned and dressed
salt to taste
Pepper to taste
2 tsp (10 ml) dried thyme
2 apples, peeled, cored, and quartered
1 small onion, cut into 1/4-inch (6-mm) strips
1 cup (240 ml) salted water
2 Tbsp (15 g) flour
14 oz (420 ml) chicken broth

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Wash and dry the goose. Sprinkle the inside cavity with salt, pepper, and thyme. Fill the cavity with the apples and onion.
Pour the salt water into the bottom of a roasting pan. Place a rack into the pan. With a sharp knife, pierce the goose skin in several places. Place the bird breast-side down on roasting rack.
Cook the goose for about 50 minutes. Baste the skin 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 another 50 minutes, basting as needed.
Remove the goose from oven and let it rest for about 5–10 minutes.
In the meantime, prepare the gravy by heating 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of the drippings with the flour in a small saucepan. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and thyme to taste.
Serve the goose whole with the gravy and a side of the roasted apples and onion.