Austria is a country that offers an unforgettable travel experience with its charming cities, historic landmarks, and delicious culinary delights. Austria is known for its rich and hearty cuisine, with many traditional dishes reflecting its history and culture. Here are some must-eat local foods and drinks in Austria that you should definitely try.
1. Wiener Schnitzel (Breaded and Fried Veal Cutlet)
Source
Wiener Schnitzel is a popular dish in Austria, often considered the national dish. It is a breaded, fried veal cutlet with a delicious taste and crispy texture. Wiener Schnitzel comes from Vienna, the capital of Austria, where the dish originated in the 19th century. It is also a popular dish in neighboring countries such as Germany, Hungary, and the Czech Republic.
2. Tafelspitz (Boiled Beef)
Source
Tafelspitz is a comforting dish that has been a staple of Austrian cuisine for centuries. It is famous for its tender, flavorful beef and rich, savory broth. It is often served with traditional Austrian side dishes such as boiled potatoes, creamed spinach, and horseradish sauce.
3. Apfelstrudel (Austrian Apple-filled Pastry)
Source
Apfelstrudel, or apple strudel, is a classic Austrian dessert. It is often served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making for a decadent dessert. You can find Apfelstrudel on the menu of almost every restaurant and cafe across the country.
4. Sachertorte (Chocolate Cake with Apricot Filling)
Source
Sachertorte is a symbol of Austrian cuisine. It is a famous Viennese, rich and decadent chocolate cake. Sachertorte was invented by Franz Sacher, a young apprentice chef, who was asked to make a dessert for Prince Wenzel von Metternich in 1832. It is often served in elegant settings such as grand hotels and coffeehouses.
5. Kaiserschmarrn (Sweet Pancake Dish)
Source
Kaiserschmarrn is a popular Austrian dessert consisting of shredded pancakes typically served with fruit compote or a sweet sauce. Even though Kaiserschmarrn is traditionally served as dessert, it can also be enjoyed as a main course or a snack.
6. Käsekrainer (Sausage Filled with Cheese)
Source
Käsekrainer is an Austrian sausage made with a combination of pork and beef and filled with chunks of cheese. It is one of Austria's beloved snacks and street food, often enjoyed at outdoor markets, street food stands, and sporting events. It is served in a bun with mustard, ketchup, or other condiments.
7. Goulash (Beef Stew with Paprika and Vegetables)
Source
Goulash is a hearty stew widely popular in Austria and many other Central European countries. It is a warm, comforting dish, perfect for cold winter days. Some variations of goulash may also include tomatoes, peppers, or wine. It is often served with a side of bread or dumplings.
8. Leberknödel (Liver Dumplings)
Source
Leberknödel, or liver dumplings, is a traditional Austrian dish made from finely chopped liver, breadcrumbs, and spices. It is a savory and flavorful dish often served in soup, particularly beef or vegetable soup, or as a side dish with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes.
9. Semmelknödel (Bread Dumplings)
Source
Semmelknödel is similar to dumplings or bread balls, made from bread crumbs, eggs, and milk. One should try Semmelknödel when visiting Austria because it is a classic and delicious dish representing the country's culinary traditions.
10. Marillenknödel (Apricot Dumplings)
Source
Marillenknödel is a traditional Austrian dessert often served as a special treat during the summer months when fresh apricots are in season. They are usually served hot, dusted with powdered sugar, and garnished with a drizzle of melted butter.
11. Schweinshaxe (Roasted Pork Knuckle)
Source
A roasted pork knuckle or hock is the main ingredient in the traditional Bavarian dish Schweinshaxe. It is famous for its crispy skin and tender, flavourful meat. It is typically served with sauerkraut, potato dumplings, and mustard.
12. Rindsgulasch (Beef Goulash)
Source
Rindsgulasch, also known as "beef goulash," is a traditional Hungarian stew that has become popular in Austria. Generations of Austrians have enjoyed this dish, and has become an integral part of the country's culinary traditions.
13. Beuschel (Tripe Stew)
Source
Beuschel, or Viennese-style ragout, is a traditional dish from Vienna, Austria. It is made from the lungs and heart of a calf, cooked with onions, garlic, and white wine until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.
14. Saumagen
Source
Saumagen is a traditional dish from the German region of Palatinate, also found in Austria. It is a type of sausage made from a pig's stomach. Saumagen is famous for its unique combination of flavors and textures and for using a less commonly consumed part of the pig.
15. Blunzn (Blood Sausage)
Source
Blunzn, also known as Blutwurst, is a traditional sausage made from pork blood and other ingredients such as barley, oats, and spices. It is a traditional food in Austria and other parts of Europe and is often associated with rural, peasant-style cuisine.
16. Schinken Fleckerl
Source
Schinken Fleckerl is a traditional Austrian pasta dish with diced ham, noodles, and a creamy cheese sauce. The dish is typically baked in the oven until the top is golden brown and crispy.
17. Krautfleckerl (Cabbage and Noodle Casserole)
Source
Krautfleckerl is a traditional Austrian dish made with pasta noodles and sautéed cabbage. Krautfleckerl is renowned for its straightforward yet mouthwatering flavors and for being a popular main course in Austrian homes.
18. Kasnudeln (Cheese-filled Pasta)
Source
Small pockets of pasta stuffed with cheese and herbs make up the traditional Austrian dish Kasnudeln, similar to ravioli. It is a traditional dish that is often served with a simple butter sauce and sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese.
Liptauer is a traditional spread from Austria made with quark cheese, paprika, and other herbs and spices. It is a popular dish at traditional Austrian taverns, called "heuriger," where it is often served with freshly baked bread and a glass of wine.
20. Topfen Strudel (Cheese-filled Pastry)
Source
Topfenstrudel is a sweet pastry dessert popular in Austria and other countries in Central Europe. It is often served as a dessert or a sweet treat with coffee or tea after dinner.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience this unique and flavorful cuisine! Plan your next trip to Austria and indulge in the country's rich culinary heritage. Whether you're a foodie or simply enjoy trying new dishes, Austria has something for everyone.
