Flammkuchen is literally "Flaming Cake", a wafer thin pizza type crust topped by a delicious combination of classic ingredients. A year-round German favorite it originated in Alsace, an area of Europe which has spent much of the last centuries belonging to either France or Germany.

It is not a good idea to wish a German "Geburtstagkind", Birthday Child, "Happy Birthday" until the actual day, one minute after midnight but not before, while someone celebrating their 90th needs a very large cake, perhaps even a fire extinguisher. Why? It's "Birthdays" the German way.

Rote Grutze made from summer's berries is one of Germany's most popular desserts. Light, refreshing, easy to make and for centuries simple 'every day' home cooking, Hausmannskost, in northern Germany, now it's a 'fruit salad with a difference' and menu favorite even in upscale restaurants.

Kaeseigel, the Cheese Hedgehog, a "Retro" party snack from Germany. Enjoying a popular and widespread renaissance it was the ultimate cold buffet food during the 1960's and 1970's, and is now just as likely to be found accompanying a summer BBQ as a snack during winter months.

For Germany's first graders a School Cone filled by small gifts and candies helps makes that first day at school even more memorable. A custom that began in early 19th century Germany, Schultuete are as popular now as they were then and could be a fun idea and new tradition for your own family.

The first day of school is a milestone in the lives of first graders in Germany. Parents and grandparents accompany the new pupil to school and, after welcoming speeches, songs, "photo calls" and with a "Schultuete", School Cone, held tightly, it is time for school life to begin.

German Lebkuchen makes delicious spicy ginger cookies, Valentines Day or Oktoberfest Hearts, perhaps a Witches Cottage, Gingerbread Men, Christmas decorations, even a Lantern which gives both light and aroma, but whatever you create with this Gingerbread, recipe it will always be delicious.

Beer Gardens and Oktoberfest in Germany would not be the same without 'Steckerlfisch' for those who like fish and have hunger pangs. It's a Bavarian specialty, a well seasoned grilled fish complete with head, tail and a stick running through it. And ideal for a BBQ.

The 'Strandkorb' is a strange looking chair. It has been compared to an upright wicker wash basket, was originally designed for an aristocrat with rheumatism, and for generations has not only sheltered German beach goers from wind, rain and sun but also become a part of the country's culture.

In the days of a communist East Germany meals were planned around what was available that day. Queues were long and legendary and a banana was to be seen on television but not in a shop. Appetizing and healthy food was served nevertheless, and here are some favorite recipes from the time.