Studentenfutter: Back to School With Lots of Energy

As “twentysomethings” prepare to go back to college or university, let’s talk about the German concept of “Studentenfutter.” In a literal and extended sense. Yes, it’s trail mix in the US … but on a higher-ed level.  “Studentenfutter”  provides nourishment, nutrients and a full stomach for relatively little money. If your lifestyle includes many all-nighters and spontaneous parties, when caffeine becomes an “essential” nutrient and lunch money is tight, we recommend “Studentenfutter” and five other popular German low budget meal solutions that provide fuel for the day, alleviate hangovers or satisfy the sweet tooth before, during or after classes. (click on the links below to see products and recipes):

Studentenfutter — Studentenfutter (literally, “student fodder”) has been in fashion for three centuries. You may also know it as Studentenhaber, Pfaffenfutter or Tutti-Frutti. This easy and nutritious meal originated in the 17th century, when it consisted simply of raisins and almonds, both of which were expensive delicacies available primarily to the well-heeled. Almonds also had a reputation for alleviating the pain of a hangover after a long night of drinking. Today, you can get “Studentenfutter” ingredients everywhere: blanched or roasted almonds, hazelnuts, cashews, walnuts  raisins, sultanas, dried cranberries, apricots or mango strips, chocolate chunks. Pay attention to quality … it makes a difference. Mix salty sweet, sour and fruity flavors. This snack will keep tired student satisfied and healthy.

Hangover Breakfast — Don’t skip it – even on most hurried mornings. A quality, high nutrition breakfast lasts until noon and provides the right energy to think, take tests and provide the right answer in class.Our favorites include whole grain breads and muesli cereals, along with a hard boiled egg (prepared the night before). Fresh crusty breakfast rolls, a Bavarian pretzel or Swedish crispbreads, butter and jam or honey, and strong German coffee or fruit & herbal teas should be part of the breakfast repertoire.

Brotzeit — If you had to get just a bite for breakfast, at least make time for a Pausenbrot (German expression for a sandwich eaten during school breaks) or Brotzeit (German expression for elevenses). It’s time for a filling sandwich with nutritious carbs, good fats and lots of protein to build brain power and muscles alike. Again, use Vollkornbrot (whole grain rolls or bread) with Bavarian brie or camembert, cold cut meats or liver paté. Check out our Banh Mi Sandwich German style

Gummies Your Own Way — A sweet indulgence during the early afternoon slump will get you back into the saddle or library chair. You can find 0ver a hundred different shapes/themes and a dozen flavors from German gummy makers in the Americas. Haribo, Katjes, or our ownThe Taste of Germany Make Your Own Gummy Bears. Use caffeine drinks, fruit juices, protein powder or any ingredient you like to mix with the gummy powder, fill into the included forms, freeze and enjoy.

Pickled or Marinated Herring — Not everyone’s favorite but a popular snack and hangover cure for Europeans living close to the Atlantic, North or Baltic Seas. Herrings and Mackerels, some of oldest sources of protein for Europeans and Americans, are not just full of omega-3 fatty acids, the vinegar in the pickling brine or marinade can help settle an upset stomach and the saltiness can replace lost electrolytes after drinking.

Kässpatzen — Move over, Ramen noodles. The Bavarian/Swabian spaetzle noodles made from the finest German semolina wheat and eggs produce a mouthwatering alternative to the classic Mac & Cheese. Our Spaetzle Recipe Collection includes Kässpatzen (Spaetzle and Cheese) and manz other recipes to make a quick, nourishing and healthy dinner. A perfect foundation to stay mentally fit for an all-nighter.

Perfect Products For Hungry Students:

Mestemacher Whole Grain Breads

RELATED CONTENT:

Recipes for Authentic German Snacks
Guide to German Snack Food
Recipes for Kids: Simple Dinners & Lunchbox Snacks
German First Day of School
Schultüten for Back to School