German
Handkäse mit Musik
A Hessian tavern classic: pungent sour-milk cheese steeped in a sharp onion, vinegar, oil, and caraway marinade. Serve it cool with rye bread and butter, just as it is eaten around Frankfurt.
Ingredients
- Handkäse or Harzer cheese200g
- Yellow onion, finely diced1 small
- Apple cider vinegar3 tbsp
- Sunflower oil or rapeseed oil3 tbsp
- Cold water2 tbsp
- Caraway seeds1 tsp
- Fine sea salt1 pinch
- Freshly ground black pepper1/2 tsp
- Rye bread4 slices
- Butter20g
Method
- Place the Handkäse in a shallow non-reactive dish in a single layer.
- Stir together the diced onion, apple cider vinegar, oil, water, caraway seeds, salt, and black pepper to make the Musik marinade.
- Spoon the marinade over the cheese, making sure the onions sit on and around each piece.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably 4 to 6 hours, turning the cheese once so it absorbs the dressing evenly.
- Remove the dish from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before serving so the flavors are not too muted.
- Serve the marinated Handkäse with the onions and plenty of marinade spooned over the top, alongside rye bread spread with butter.
Common questions
Can I substitute Harzer cheese if I can’t find Handkäse?
Yes. Harzer Käse is the closest substitute and is often used interchangeably. Any firm, tangy low-fat sour milk cheese works best. Avoid soft cheeses, which will break down in the marinade and lose the right texture.
How long should Handkäse mit Musik marinate for the best flavor?
At least 2 hours, but 4 to 6 hours is better for fuller flavor. If you can, turn the cheese once during chilling so both sides absorb the onion-vinegar marinade evenly.
What are the most common mistakes when making the marinade?
Using too much salt, not enough vinegar, or serving it straight from the fridge are the biggest mistakes. Also avoid overly large onion pieces; finely diced onion mellows and distributes better over the cheese.
How should I store leftovers, and how long do they keep?
Store the cheese and marinade together in a covered non-reactive container in the refrigerator. It keeps for about 2 days, though the onions get stronger and the cheese softens over time. Bring it out briefly before serving.
What’s the best way to serve Handkäse mit Musik?
Serve it with plenty of marinade and onions spooned over the top, alongside rye bread spread with butter. Take it out about 15 minutes before serving so the flavors open up and the cheese isn’t too cold.