When people think of Austria, their thoughts often turn to its stunning landscape, rich history and culture, and well-deserved reputation for producing some of the world’s finest wines. But the country is also well known for its delicious cuisine. Austria is most famous for its hearty and flavorful dishes, which are largely influenced by Germany, Hungary and other bordering countries.
As a nation where meat is a staple of the cuisine, it’s no surprise that schnitzel is one of Austria’s most beloved dishes. This thin pork or veal cutlet is pounded flat before being breaded with egg and flour, then fried in butter until golden brown. Schnitzel is served with a variety of sauces and accompaniments such as potato salad or potato wedges.
Another Austrian classic is Wiener schnitzel – a variant of schnitzel made from veal instead of pork. Wiener schnitzel has been around since the 1700s, when it was said to have been created by an Italian chef working in Vienna. It’s still popular today, often served with lemon wedges or lingonberry jam.
Strudels are also very popular in Austria. These flaky pastries can be filled with anything from apples to walnuts to sweetened cottage cheese. The dough is rolled out very thin and then filled before baking in the oven until golden brown.
Austrian cooking also features several varieties of dumplings – usually boiled potatoes that are mashed together with eggs, flour, butter and salt. They can be served plain or topped with bacon and onions for extra flavor.
Soups are another common Austrian dish; two favorites are gulaschsuppe (goulash soup) and frittatensuppe (noodle soup). Both soups feature chunks of beef or pork in their recipes, plus onions and garlic.
Sweets, such as Sachertorte (a chocolate cake) or Apfelstrudel (apple strudel) are also popular in Austria. The country has a wide range of desserts that use fruit as their main ingredient – from jams to tarts to compotes. Vienna’s renowned coffee house culture has also given rise to several iconic desserts like Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancakes) or Topfenstrudel (cheese strudel).
Austria may be best known for its wines but its food is just as beloved by locals and visitors alike. From traditional dishes like schnitzel to classic desserts like strudels, Austrian cuisine offers something for everyone – regardless of whether you’re a fan of meat-heavy meals or sweet treats.
Conclusion:
What Food Is Austria Most Famous For?
Austria is best known for its hearty dishes such as schnitzels, Wiener schnitzels, dumplings and gulaschsuppe; strudels; sweet treats like Sachertorte and Apfelstrudel; along with Vienna’s coffee house desserts like Kaiserschmarrn or Topfenstrudel.