Introduction
Austria, a land of majestic Alps, classical music, and historical grandeur, also boasts a culinary landscape as rich and captivating as its cultural heritage. Beyond the waltzes and the Habsburgs, lies a cuisine that is comforting, hearty, and undeniably delicious. Austrian food draws influences from Central Europe, creating dishes that are both familiar and uniquely their own. From savory delights like the iconic Wiener Schnitzel to sweet temptations like the decadent Sachertorte, Austria offers a feast for the senses. This article will explore some of the most common and beloved foods in Austria, providing insight into their origins, preparation, and cultural significance, making your culinary journey through this Alpine nation unforgettable. If you are planning a trip or just curious about Austrian culture through its cuisine, be sure to try the common foods in Austria.
Main Courses & Savory Dishes
When diving into Austrian cuisine, the main courses are where the heart of the experience truly lies. These dishes are not merely sustenance; they are a testament to the country’s history, traditions, and dedication to wholesome, flavorful food.
Wiener Schnitzel: The Epitome of Austrian Cuisine
Perhaps no dish is more synonymous with Austria than the Wiener Schnitzel. This culinary icon is a thinly breaded and pan-fried veal cutlet, perfectly golden and crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. While its exact origins are debated, with some tracing it back to a similar dish in Milan, Italy, the Wiener Schnitzel has undoubtedly become a national treasure.
The traditional preparation of Wiener Schnitzel involves carefully tenderizing the veal cutlet, dredging it in flour, dipping it in beaten eggs, and then coating it in breadcrumbs. The key to its signature crispiness lies in frying it in clarified butter until it reaches that perfect golden-brown hue.
Wiener Schnitzel is typically served with a wedge of lemon, a sprig of parsley, and a side of potatoes, which can be roasted, boiled, or transformed into a creamy potato salad. Regional variations might include different types of potatoes or the addition of lingonberry jam for a touch of sweetness. Exploring common foods in Austria means you must try the Wiener Schnitzel.
Tafelspitz: A Royal Affair
Tafelspitz, meaning “tip of the rump,” is a classic Austrian dish of boiled beef in broth. This dish gained prominence during the reign of Emperor Franz Joseph, who was said to be particularly fond of it. The historical connection to royalty elevates Tafelspitz from a simple boiled beef dish to a symbol of Austrian culinary heritage.
The preparation of Tafelspitz is a slow and meticulous process. The beef is simmered in a flavorful broth with root vegetables and spices for several hours, resulting in incredibly tender meat and a rich, aromatic broth. The broth itself is often served as a starter before the main course.
Tafelspitz is traditionally served with an array of sauces, each adding a unique layer of flavor. These sauces often include apple horseradish, creamy chive sauce, and creamed spinach. Marrow bones are often served alongside, providing a rich and decadent addition to the meal. A complete meal consisting of common foods in Austria, Tafelspitz will warm you from the inside.
Tiroler Gröstl: A Taste of the Alps
Originating from the region of Tyrol, Tiroler Gröstl is a hearty and rustic dish that embodies the spirit of the Austrian Alps. It’s a simple yet satisfying combination of fried potatoes, bacon (or other meats), and onions, often topped with a fried egg.
The preparation of Tiroler Gröstl is straightforward, reflecting its origins as a dish made with leftover ingredients. Potatoes, bacon, and onions are diced and fried together until golden brown and crispy. A fried egg is then placed on top, adding a creamy richness to the dish.
Variations of Tiroler Gröstl might include different types of meat, such as sausage or beef, or the addition of vegetables like peppers or mushrooms. It’s a dish that is as versatile as it is delicious, showcasing the resourcefulness of Austrian cuisine. Exploring common foods in Austria means finding the heart of its regional cuisine.
Goulash: A Stew of Spice and Tradition
While often associated with Hungary, Goulash, or Gulasch as it’s known in Austria, has become a beloved staple in Austrian cuisine. This hearty stew is made with beef, simmered in a rich and flavorful paprika-spiced gravy.
The Austrian version of Goulash often incorporates a variety of spices and vegetables, creating a complex and deeply satisfying flavor. Different types of Goulash exist, such as Fiakergoulash, which includes sausages and fried eggs.
Goulash is typically served with bread dumplings (Semmelknödel) or simply with a piece of crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy. It’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold winter day, representing the warmth and comfort that Austrian cuisine is known for.
Käsespätzle: A Vegetarian Delight
Käsespätzle, meaning “cheese noodles,” is a popular vegetarian dish in Austria, consisting of soft egg noodles mixed with cheese and fried onions. It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish that highlights the quality of Austrian dairy products.
The preparation of Käsespätzle involves making Spätzle, a type of soft egg noodle that is traditionally made by pushing the dough through a special Spätzle maker. The noodles are then mixed with melted cheese, typically Emmentaler or Bergkäse, and topped with crispy fried onions.
Käsespätzle is often served with a side salad to provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Trying common foods in Austria means experiencing the vegetarian options as well.
Soups and Starters
No exploration of Austrian cuisine would be complete without delving into the world of soups and starters. These lighter dishes offer a glimpse into the subtle flavors and culinary traditions of Austria.
Frittatensuppe: A Simple Comfort
Frittatensuppe is a clear beef broth served with sliced pancake strips. It’s a simple yet comforting starter that is often served as a prelude to a larger meal. The pancake strips add a delicate sweetness and texture to the savory broth, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. This soup is a testament to the Austrian ability to transform simple ingredients into something truly special.
Leberknödelsuppe: Hearty Dumplings in Broth
Leberknödelsuppe is a hearty soup featuring liver dumplings simmered in a flavorful broth. These dumplings, made from a mixture of ground liver, breadcrumbs, and spices, offer a rich and savory flavor that complements the broth perfectly. This soup is a popular choice for those seeking a more substantial starter.
Brettljause: A Communal Feast
Brettljause is not just a starter; it’s an experience. This platter of cold cuts, cheeses, bread, and spreads is a staple of Austrian social gatherings, designed to be shared among friends and family. It embodies the Austrian spirit of hospitality and communal dining. The variety of meats and cheeses on a Brettljause can vary depending on the region, offering a taste of local specialties. This is a great option when exploring common foods in Austria with a group.
Desserts and Sweets
Austrian desserts are legendary, renowned for their richness, elegance, and irresistible sweetness. From delicate pastries to decadent cakes, Austrian sweets are a true indulgence.
Apfelstrudel: The Iconic Austrian Dessert
Apfelstrudel, or apple strudel, is perhaps the most iconic of all Austrian desserts. This layered pastry is filled with apples, raisins, and spices, creating a warm and comforting treat. The flaky dough, the sweet and tangy apple filling, and the dusting of powdered sugar make Apfelstrudel an unforgettable experience.
The preparation of Apfelstrudel is an art form, requiring skill and patience to create the delicate layers of dough. The filling is typically made with thinly sliced apples, raisins soaked in rum, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
Apfelstrudel is often served warm with vanilla sauce or whipped cream, adding an extra layer of richness and indulgence.
Sachertorte: A Chocolate Masterpiece
The Sachertorte is a rich chocolate cake with a thin layer of apricot jam, coated in dark chocolate icing. This cake originated at the Sacher Hotel in Vienna and has become a symbol of Austrian culinary excellence.
The Sachertorte is known for its unique texture, a perfect balance of moist cake, tart apricot jam, and rich chocolate icing. It’s a decadent and satisfying dessert that is perfect for chocolate lovers.
Sachertorte is traditionally served with unsweetened whipped cream, which provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake. Trying common foods in Austria needs to end with the Sachertorte.
Kaiserschmarrn: The Emperor’s Delight
Kaiserschmarrn, meaning “Emperor’s Mess,” is a shredded pancake, often with raisins, served with fruit compote. Legend has it that this dish was created for Emperor Franz Joseph when his chef accidentally tore a pancake.
The preparation of Kaiserschmarrn involves making a fluffy pancake batter and then shredding the pancake into bite-sized pieces. The pieces are then caramelized with butter and sugar, creating a sweet and slightly crispy texture.
Kaiserschmarrn is typically served with powdered sugar and fruit compote, such as plum or apple. It’s a fun and whimsical dessert that is perfect for sharing.
Mozartkugel: Sweet Sound of Austria
Originating in Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, the Mozartkugel (Mozart ball) is a chocolate confection filled with pistachio marzipan and nougat. Created by confectioner Paul Fürst in the late nineteenth century, these spherical treats are a beloved symbol of Austrian sweets. Individually wrapped in distinctive silver and blue foil, the Mozartkugel makes a perfect souvenir and sweet reminder of your trip. The blend of chocolate, pistachio, and nougat makes this a unique and common food in Austria.
Drinks
No culinary journey is complete without exploring the local beverages. Austria offers a variety of drinks to complement its delicious cuisine.
Wine: A Taste of Austrian Terroir
Austria is a renowned wine-producing country, particularly known for its Grüner Veltliner, a crisp and aromatic white wine, and Zweigelt, a fruity and versatile red wine.
Beer: A Refreshing Brew
Austria also boasts a thriving beer culture, with a variety of local breweries producing high-quality beers. Whether you prefer a crisp lager or a hoppy ale, you’re sure to find a beer to your liking in Austria.
Almdudler: The Herbal Soda
Almdudler is a popular Austrian herbal soda that is a refreshing and unique alternative to traditional soft drinks. Its blend of herbs and spices creates a distinctive flavor that is both refreshing and satisfying.
Coffee: Vienna’s Coffeehouse Culture
Vienna is famous for its coffeehouse culture, where people gather to socialize, read, and enjoy a cup of coffee. Different types of coffee are available, such as Melange, a coffee with steamed milk and foam, and Einspänner, a strong black coffee topped with whipped cream.
Regional Specialties
Austria’s diverse regions offer unique culinary specialties. In Styria, pumpkin seed oil adds a distinctive flavor to salads and other dishes. These regional variations add another layer of complexity and richness to Austrian cuisine.
Conclusion
Austrian cuisine is more than just food; it’s an experience that reflects the country’s history, culture, and hospitality. From the iconic Wiener Schnitzel to the decadent Sachertorte, Austrian food offers a delicious journey for the senses. When visiting Austria, be sure to try these common foods and immerse yourself in the rich culinary traditions of this Alpine nation. Whether you’re savoring a hearty Goulash on a cold winter day or indulging in a sweet Apfelstrudel after a delicious meal, you’re sure to find something to delight your palate in Austria. So, pack your bags, prepare your taste buds, and get ready to experience the unforgettable flavors of Austria!
