A Feast for the Senses: 5 Traditional Austrian Dishes!
Austria is not only famous for its stunning natural landscapes and the wide range of activities on offer but also for its cuisine. It boasts a variety of dishes that perfectly reflect the country’s culture and traditions. From savoury delights such as the famous Wiener Schnitzel and Tiroler Gröstl to sweeter treats like Kaiserschmarrn and Germknödel, Austrian cuisine has something for everyone. In this blog, five traditional Austrian dishes are highlighted that you absolutely must try when visiting this beautiful country.
1. Kaiserschmarrn
First up is Kaiserschmarrn, a light and sweet dish that closely resembles pancakes, but thanks to the addition of whipped egg whites, it has a much lighter texture. The dish is named after Emperor Franz Joseph, who considered it his favourite meal. Traditionally, Kaiserschmarrn is served with powdered sugar and plum compote, making it a wonderfully sweet treat. Read the recipe here.
2. Wiener Schnitzel
The famous Wiener Schnitzel originates from Austria, although the schnitzel itself comes from Milan. It is made from veal, specifically the 'Kaiserteil' (the fricandeau), which makes the meat extra tender. The schnitzel is breaded and quickly fried in lard or oil. It is usually served with a slice of lemon, which adds a refreshing touch to the flavour.
3. Germknödel
This Austrian dish is a delightful, warm dough speciality. It consists of a dumpling filled with plum compote. The dumpling is boiled or steamed, then topped with melted butter, powdered sugar, and ground poppy seeds. It's the perfect dessert for cold days and truly comfort food at its best. Read the recipe here.
4. Zwiebelrostbraten
Zwiebelrostbraten is a delicious stew-like dish that is reminiscent of Dutch hachée. It consists of a beef steak or schnitzel, fried onions, broth, and spices such as pepper, salt, and paprika. The meat is briefly fried and then covered with a mixture of broth and fried onions. The dish is served with boiled or fried potatoes.
5. Tiroler Gröstl
We close with Tiroler Gröstl, a simple yet flavourful dish that is popular throughout Austria all year round. It consists of thinly sliced potatoes that are fried together with bacon and onions. It is finished off with a sprinkle of parsley and two fried eggs. This dish is a great choice both in summer and winter, making it the perfect meal for any season. Read the recipe here.