Strammer Max facts for kids
Strammer Max is a classic German open-faced sandwich. It's a popular and tasty dish often enjoyed for breakfast or a light meal. The name "Strammer Max" roughly translates to "Strapping Max" in English. It's known for being hearty and filling.
The Original Strammer Max Sandwich
The traditional Strammer Max starts with a slice of bread. This bread is sometimes fried in butter to make it extra crispy. On top of the bread, you'll find slices of ham. A fried egg is then placed on top of the ham.
Sometimes, the ham is also pan-fried for more flavor. Instead of ham, some versions use a slice of roast beef. When made with roast beef, the dish is sometimes called Strammer Otto. Later additions to the recipe can include cheese and tomato, making it even more delicious.
It's interesting to know that outside of the Berlin area, the name "Strammer Max" can mean different dishes. So, if you order one in a restaurant, you might get a surprise! For example, in Bavaria, a Strammer Max is usually a slice of Leberkäse (a type of meatloaf). This is served with a fried egg and potato salad.
Strammer Max's Dutch Cousin: The Uitsmijter
In the Netherlands and Belgium, there's a dish very similar to Strammer Max. It's called an uitsmijter. This word also means "bouncer" in Dutch, like a person who works at the door of a club!
The uitsmijter is usually made with white bread. It often features a Dutch cheese, such as Gouda cheese. This is different from the Strammer Max, which traditionally uses rye bread or Swiss cheese. Both dishes are tasty and filling, perfect for a good meal!
