By Dana Perkiss
Guten Tag, foodies and travel enthusiasts! Are you planning a vacation to Austria and wondering which delicious local dishes you simply must try? We’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll explore some of the best Austrian dishes that will undoubtedly make your taste buds dance with delight.
Wiener Schnitzel
No vacation in Austria would be complete without tasting the iconic Wiener Schnitzel. This breaded and fried veal cutlet is simply perfection on a plate. Its crispy golden exterior encases tender meat, providing a delectable contrast of textures. Often served with a slice of fresh lemon and a side of potato salad, this Austrian dish is sure to leave you wanting more.
Tafelspitz
Tafelspitz, hailed as the national dish of Austria, is a true culinary masterpiece. This tender, slow-cooked beef, served with a broth of root vegetables, horseradish, and minced apples, embodies the elegance and opulence of Austro-Hungarian cuisine – considering it was a favorite dish of Viennese Franz Joseph I.
Erdäpfelsalat
Commonly known as potato salad, Erdäpfelsalat is a staple side dish in Austria. The Viennese version brings a delightful twist to traditional potato salad with a tangy and flavorful dressing based on vinegar, mustard, and oil. With its refreshing and zesty taste, it pairs marvelously with any main dish, particularly Schnitzel.
Goulash
Hailing from the eastern region of Austria, Goulash is a flavorsome meat stew or soup usually made with beef or veal, accompanied by onions, paprika, and spices. It's best enjoyed on a chilly evening to warm you up from the inside out. Goulash is one of the national dishes of Hungary and a must-try during any Austrian vacation.
Knödel
These delightful dumplings are made from bread or potato dough and come in a variety of flavors including bacon, cheese, spinach, and apricot. Knödel is a versatile side dish that pairs perfectly with any savory dish mentioned above. Some of the most popular kinds of Knödel are Kartoffelknödel (potato dumplings) and Marillenknödel (apricot dumplings).
Kaiserschmarrn
Another royal treat, Kaiserschmarrn (“Kaiser” meaning King and “Schmarrn” shred) is basically a delicious dish of shredded pancakes. Traditionally a dessert, this dish consists of fluffy torn pancake pieces cooked in butter, dusted with powdered sugar, and commonly paired with a fruity compote or jam. Make sure to satisfy your sweet tooth with this delightful dessert during your Vienna vacation, or anywhere else in Austria!
Sachertorte
Chocolate lovers – this one’s for you! Sachertorte, a legendary chocolate cake filled with apricot jam and a glossy chocolate glaze, is known worldwide for its exceptional taste. Allow your senses to be captivated by the remarkable flavors and history behind this exquisite treat, created in Vienna in 1832.
Apfelstrudel
Austria's apple strudel, or Apfelstrudel, tempts foodies with its delicate layers of flaky pastry filled with cinnamon-infused sliced apples, raisins, and nuts. Served warm and sprinkled with powdered sugar, it’s often accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of vanilla sauce. Prepare to be enchanted by this delicious Austrian dessert!
