Introduction
Austria, a land of stunning alpine scenery, baroque architecture, and rich history, also boasts a vibrant and comforting culinary tradition. From hearty, meat-centric dishes to delicate pastries and delightful beverages, Austrian cuisine is a reflection of its diverse cultural influences and the abundance of fresh, local ingredients. A journey through Austria is incomplete without savoring its distinctive flavors. This article will guide you through some of the most popular and commonly found foods in Austria, offering a taste of this delicious and memorable cuisine.
The geographic location of Austria has played a pivotal role in shaping its cuisine. Bordered by Germany, Italy, Hungary, the Czech Republic, and other countries, Austria has gracefully absorbed culinary influences from its neighbors. These influences, combined with its own unique traditions, have resulted in a cuisine that is both familiar and distinct, a delightful blend of comforting staples and refined tastes. You’ll discover a wide variety of dishes, each with its own story and place in Austrian culture. So, put on your apron, prepare your taste buds, and let’s explore the common foods in Austria.
Main Dishes: A Hearty Feast
The heart of Austrian cuisine often lies in its main courses, many of which are substantial, flavorful, and designed to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. These dishes are perfect for a cold winter day or when you’re seeking a truly satisfying meal.
Wiener Schnitzel: The Iconic Classic
No discussion of common foods in Austria is complete without mentioning Wiener Schnitzel. This is perhaps the most recognizable and beloved dish in the country. This dish consists of a thin, breaded, and pan-fried cutlet of veal. The meat is tenderized, coated in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, and then fried until golden brown and crispy.
The origins of Wiener Schnitzel are often debated, but it’s clear that the dish has become a cornerstone of Austrian identity. It’s believed that the recipe evolved from a Milanese dish known as *cotoletta alla milanese*. The key to a perfect Wiener Schnitzel lies in the quality of the veal, the thinness of the cutlet, and the careful frying process. It should be golden, not greasy, and the breading should adhere perfectly to the meat.
Wiener Schnitzel is traditionally served with a side of lemon wedges, which are squeezed over the meat just before eating, adding a burst of freshness. Common accompaniments also include parsley potatoes (boiled potatoes tossed with butter and chopped parsley), French fries, or a simple green salad. The simplicity of the dish highlights the quality of the ingredients, a testament to Austrian culinary philosophy.
Tafelspitz: Elegance in Simplicity
Another classic Austrian dish, Tafelspitz, elevates the concept of boiled beef to an art form. This dish is a prime example of Austrian culinary simplicity and elegance. Tafelspitz is made by gently simmering a cut of beef, typically from the rump or sirloin, in a flavorful broth with root vegetables (carrots, parsnips, celery root), spices (peppercorns, bay leaves), and herbs. The meat is cooked slowly until it’s incredibly tender and flavorful.
The broth, often served as a starter, is rich and aromatic. The tender beef is then served with various traditional accompaniments. These include:
- *Apfelkren:* A combination of grated horseradish and apple, offering a sweet and zesty counterpoint to the richness of the beef.
- *Horseradish sauce:* This classic sauce adds a sharp, pungent kick that complements the meat beautifully.
- *Cream spinach:* Adds a touch of creamy, green freshness.
- *Boiled potatoes:* The perfect neutral base to soak up the flavorful sauces.
Tafelspitz is a testament to the Austrians’ appreciation for high-quality ingredients and careful preparation. It’s a dish that celebrates simplicity, allowing the natural flavors of the beef to shine.
Goulash: A Comforting Stew
Goulash, a hearty meat stew, has a strong presence in Austrian cuisine, reflecting the influence of Hungary. The Austrian version, known as *Gulasch*, is a rich and flavorful stew typically made with beef, onions, paprika, and other spices. The beef is slowly simmered until it becomes incredibly tender and infused with the deep flavors of the paprika and other seasonings.
There are variations of Goulash, but the core essence remains: a comforting, satisfying stew. Sometimes pork or even a combination of meats can be used. While the origins of Goulash may be Hungarian, the Austrians have made it their own, perfecting the balance of flavors and textures.
Goulash is traditionally served with a side of bread for dipping, which is perfect for soaking up the rich and flavorful sauce. Spaetzle, small, soft egg noodles, is another popular accompaniment.
Knödel: The Versatile Dumpling
Knödel are a staple of Austrian cuisine, found in many different forms and used in various dishes. These dumplings can be made from a variety of ingredients, each offering a unique texture and flavor.
- *Potato Knödel:* Made from mashed potatoes, flour, and sometimes breadcrumbs. They have a slightly chewy texture and are often served with savory dishes, such as roast meat and gravy.
- *Bread Knödel:* Made from stale bread, milk, eggs, and seasonings. They’re often served in soups or with stews.
- *Cheese Knödel:* Can be either potato or bread based, but with the addition of various cheeses to elevate the flavor profile.
Knödel are versatile and can be served as a side dish, a main course, or even a dessert (with the addition of sweet ingredients). They’re a testament to Austrian resourcefulness and their ability to transform simple ingredients into something delicious and satisfying.
Other Savory Options to Consider
While the above dishes are some of the most common foods in Austria, there are several others that deserve mention:
- *Käsespätzle:* A cheesy noodle dish similar to mac and cheese, but with spaetzle noodles and typically Gruyere cheese.
- *Backhendl:* Fried chicken, typically marinated and breaded before being deep-fried to golden perfection.
- *Brettljause:* A platter of cold cuts, cheeses, pickled vegetables, and bread, perfect for a casual meal or snack.
Soups: A Culinary Warm Embrace
Soups in Austria are comforting and flavorful, often served as a starter but sometimes substantial enough to be a light meal on their own. They provide a warmth that’s especially welcome during the colder months.
Frittaten Suppe: Thin Pancake Delight
This simple yet delightful soup features thinly sliced pancakes (Frittaten) in a clear broth. The pancakes are made from a batter similar to crêpes, then thinly sliced and added to the broth. This soup is light, comforting, and the pancake strips provide a delightful textural contrast. It’s a popular choice throughout Austria.
Leberknödelsuppe: A Brothy Flavor Bomb
Leberknödelsuppe features liver dumplings (Leberknödel) in a rich, flavorful broth. The dumplings are made from ground liver, breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices. This soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s often served as a starter. It can be an acquired taste for some, but it’s a beloved dish in many Austrian households.
Sweet Dishes & Desserts: Sweet Endings
Austrian desserts are renowned for their richness, their artistry, and their ability to satisfy any sweet craving. From classic strudels to decadent cakes, the desserts are a highlight of any Austrian culinary experience.
Apfelstrudel: A Delicate Masterpiece
Apfelstrudel, or apple strudel, is one of the most iconic Austrian desserts. It’s a delicate pastry made with thin layers of dough filled with a sweet and tart apple filling. The dough is stretched to a paper-thin consistency, and the filling typically includes apples, raisins, cinnamon, sugar, and breadcrumbs.
The key to a perfect strudel is the thinness of the dough and the balance of flavors in the filling. It’s traditionally served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of vanilla sauce or whipped cream.
Sachertorte: The Chocolate Icon
The Sachertorte, a chocolate cake, is a Viennese institution and one of the most famous cakes in the world. The cake is a dense chocolate sponge cake with a thin layer of apricot jam between the layers and coated in a rich, dark chocolate glaze.
The Sachertorte was created in 1832 by Franz Sacher for Prince Wenzel von Metternich. It has since become a symbol of Vienna. Traditionally, the Sachertorte is served with a dollop of unsweetened whipped cream, which helps to balance the richness of the chocolate. The simple cream creates a beautiful contrast that is a must try!
Kaiserschmarrn: The Emperor’s Mess
Kaiserschmarrn, also known as “Emperor’s Mess,” is a sweet, shredded pancake that’s one of Austria’s most beloved desserts. The pancake is typically made with eggs, flour, sugar, and milk. It’s cooked in a pan until golden brown, then torn into pieces and dusted with powdered sugar.
Kaiserschmarrn is often served with fruit compote, such as apple sauce or plum sauce. It’s a comforting and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for a cozy meal. It is named after Emperor Franz Joseph I who enjoyed it as one of his favorite desserts.
Other Dessert Options to Consider
- *Topfenknödel:* Sweet cheese dumplings, often made with quark cheese, and served with fruit sauces or compotes.
- *Palatschinken:* Thin crepes, similar to French crepes, that can be filled with sweet or savory fillings.
Side Dishes and Accompaniments: The Supporting Cast
The side dishes in Austrian cuisine play a crucial role in complementing the main courses, adding texture, flavor, and balance to the meal.
- *Spaetzle:* Small egg noodles, often served with cheese (Käsespätzle) or as a side dish.
- *Sauerkraut:* Fermented cabbage, adding a tangy and slightly sour flavor that pairs well with rich meats.
- *Potato Salad:* Usually made with boiled potatoes, vinegar, onions, and oil.
- *Bread:* Various types of bread are commonly served, including Kaiser rolls and rye bread.
Beverages: The Perfect Pairing
Beverages are an essential part of the Austrian dining experience, complementing the flavors of the food and providing a refreshing break between courses.
Coffee Culture: A Viennese Tradition
Coffee is much more than a beverage in Austria; it’s a cultural institution. Viennese coffee houses are legendary for their atmosphere, their variety of coffee drinks, and their role as social hubs.
- *Melange:* A coffee drink similar to a cappuccino, made with espresso, steamed milk, and a layer of milk foam.
- *Einspänner:* Espresso served in a glass with whipped cream.
Beer: A Refreshing Brew
Austria has a thriving beer culture, with numerous breweries producing a wide range of styles. Lager is the most common type of beer, but you can also find pilsners, wheat beers, and dark beers. Local brands such as Stiegl, Ottakringer, and Gösser are popular choices.
Wine: Vineyards and Varietals
Austria is a significant wine-producing country, with a focus on white wines. The most famous Austrian grape variety is Grüner Veltliner, a crisp, dry white wine with a peppery finish. Other popular wines include Riesling, Welschriesling, and Zweigelt (a red wine).
Other Drinks
- *Almdudler:* A refreshing soft drink with herbal and alpine flavors.
- *Schnapps:* Strong fruit-flavored spirits, often enjoyed after a meal.
Where to Find These Foods
The common foods in Austria are widely available across the country.
- *Traditional Restaurants (Gasthäuser):* Offer authentic, home-style cooking.
- *Modern Restaurants and Cafés:* Offer contemporary interpretations of classic dishes.
- *Christmas Markets and Festivals:* Feature seasonal specialties, like sausages, mulled wine and pastries.
- The dishes are easily available throughout the country.
Conclusion
Austrian cuisine is a tapestry of flavors, textures, and traditions, reflecting its historical influences, geography, and the passion of its people. From the crispy Wiener Schnitzel to the delicate Apfelstrudel, the common foods in Austria offer a rich and satisfying culinary experience. Every dish tells a story, every ingredient is thoughtfully selected, and every meal is a celebration of life. Embrace the comfort of goulash, the elegance of Tafelspitz, and the sweetness of the Sachertorte. By trying these classic and commonly found dishes, you will not only fill your stomach, but also enrich your soul with the essence of Austrian culture. Enjoy the culinary journey!
