The German beer radish, botanical name Raphanus sativus ‘Caudatus’, is a member of the Brassicaceae family. Also known as Munchner Bier radish this annual root vegetable is a rat tailed variety radish, a group of radishes which are prized for their tasty radish seed pods.

The edible roots of the German beer radish are six inches long by three inches wide on average with a wide base that tapers towards the tip, giving it the appearance of a squat carrot. Both its flesh and thick skin are creamy white in color and it is capped with green leaves. The German beer radish has a crisp texture and spicy radish flavor. As a rat tail variety radish the German beer radish also produces flowers and petite radish pods which are sought after for their crisp, pop in your mouth texture and spicy radish flavor.

Serving Ideas

German beer radishes are a versatile root vegetable and can be prepared in both cooked and raw preparations. Their size makes them perfectly suited for slicing thick and sautéing in butter or cream based sauces, which balances the piquant flavor of the radish. They can be sliced thin and served with soft salted pretzels or bread, butter and salt. Use the pods of the German beer radish in pickled preparations, salads or serve simply dipped in salt and paired with a beer.

Ethnic/Cultural Info

A popular snack radish in Germany the German beer radish is traditionally served sliced thin or accordion style and lightly salted then paired with bread, butter and of course, German beer.

Geography/History

The German beer radish is an heirloom variety of radish that is native to the Bavarian region of Germany. A popular radish throughout Northern Europe it is also found growing in limited quantities in the United States. This variety grows best if planted in the spring or summer for harvest in the fall through winter months.

Seasons/Availability

German beer radishes are available late summer through early winter.