Cuisine Hit List
Austrian cuisine has a reputation of being all meat and dumplings, but if you venture into the local restaurants, you will find that this is far from the truth. Many of Austria’s famous dishes originated from Hungary (former empire), though the Austrians have lovingly improved and made them their own. Below is a selection of dishes you must try.
Wiener Schnitzel
A very old Austrian speciality? Veal escalope, which is breaded and shallow, fried and usually served with Erdapfel (a delicious potato salad).
Kaiserschmarrn:
This is another mouth-watering dish of shredded pancake and stewed fruit. Legend has it that it was invented for the Emperor Franz Joseph.
Apfelstrudel
A classic Austrian dessert of spiced apples wrapped in strudel paste and served with vanilla sauce or equally nice with a dollop of cream. But why not do what I did and have both!
Salzburger Nockerln
This fabulous sweet omelette-type dessert is served with vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry sauce. You will need to share this one, as it’s generally prepared for two.
Knodel
Austria is home of the dumpling, so be prepared to sample some of the best. The variety is enormous and the flavour stunning. Basically they are light, fluffy dumplings that may contain flour, potato, cheese, smoked bacon, and bread, depending on the type of dumpling you order. Make sure to ask the locals what they recommend.
Zweibelrostbraten
A truly delicious braised steak served with onions
Tapfelspitz
Tender rump beef boiled and garnished with horseradish and applesauce and served with either roast or fried potatoes