Whether a foodie or not, Hungarian food is something you should not miss on your Hungary trip. Food in Hungary is characterised by its flavours of their specific. The gastronomy of the country is as strong as its culture and Hungarian people are certainly to fond of their excuisite food and delicious wines.
Here are some of the best Hungarian foods and where to find them.
1. Goulash
Goulash is one of the most popular dishes in Hungary and also one of the tastiest ones. The history dates back to 895 AD during the time of the Magyar people, a nomadic tribe. They created a hearty stew made with beef, onions, and paprika, which they called "gulyás." beef or pork, onions, garlic, paprika dn other spices. The food also has health benefits Paprika, which is a key ingredient in Goulash, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help to lower blood pressure. It is typically served hot, with a side of bread or potatoes, and is a hearty dish that is perfect for colder weather. While this is a unique dish found in Hungary, in recent days Goulash is also seen to make a presence elsewhere in the world. For example, the Székely Goulash is a variation that includes sauerkraut and smoked pork and is popular in Transylvania. In Budapest, a type of Goulash known as "Budapest-style" may include beef tripe or calf's foot.
2. Lángos
Lángos is the street food staple of Hungary and is also one of the most beloved evening snacks in the country. It originated in Hungary during the 15th century and is a deep-fried flatbread, which is crispy on the out and extremely soft on the inside. earlier it was usually prepared during big family occasions like weddings and get-togethers. The key element of this food is the topping. The toppings for Lángos vary greatly and can be both savory and sweet. Some of the most popular savory toppings include sour cream, cheese, garlic, and ham. On the other hand, sweet toppings include Nutella, cinnamon, and sugar. If you are in Hungary and want to try the classic Langos, then try it with the topping of sour cream and grated cheese.
3. Chimney Cake
If you are a dessert lover, then try this traditional Hungarian pastry with the unique name Chimney Cake. Chimney Cake is a cylindrical-shaped pastry made from sweet, yeast dough that's wrapped around a wooden cylinder, then baked over an open flame. Once the dough is coated with one layer of sugar, it is then given a layer of different toppings like dusted with cinnamon or other spices, giving the pastry a sweet and aromatic flavor. You can also try it with some other toppings like chopped walnuts, coconut flakes, cinnamon sugar, and chocolate chips.
The cake was first originated by Hungarian shepherds who would bake the dough over an open fire. It is also believed that the first recipe for this century-old cake was found in a 1781 manuscript cookbook. The original name Kürtőskalács comes from the Hungarian words kürtő, which means chimney, and kalács, which means cake.
4. Chicken Paprikash
Chicken Paprikash is the perfect blend of tender chicken with rich and spicy paprika sauce. It is said that this dish originated in the 16th century when paprika was first introduced in Hungary. For a long period, Chicken Paprikash was confused with Goulash, but there is a difference in the use of sour cream in the former. Paprika is a cornerstone of Hungarian cuisine, and it is the star of Chicken Paprikash. The subtle taste of onion, tomatoes, and garlic adds up to the flavor of the chicken. Chicken Paprikash is typically served with a side of Hungarian dumplings or egg noodles. A crisp green salad is a refreshing accompaniment to this rich and flavorful dish.
5. Hungarian Sausage
Kolbasz is one of the most popular traditional foods in Hungary, which found its origin in the early middle ages. During those times the nomadic tribes first introduced the art of sausage-making to the Carpathian Basin, the region where Hungary is located today. This is a past of meat, fat, and paprika infused with heavy spices. Once the paste is made, it is then stuffed inside a tabular casing and then smoked and dried for the classic flavor. Paprika gives Hungarian sausage its signature red color and spicy flavor and is a staple ingredient in many Hungarian dishes. Other common spices used in Hungarian sausage include garlic, caraway seeds, and black pepper. There are different kinds of sausages like the Csabai sausage, Debreceni sausage, Gyulai sausage, and the Hurka sausage.
6. Dobos Torta
Dobos Cake, also known as Dobos Torta, is a famous Hungarian dessert that has been enjoyed for over a century. It was first invented by Hungarian pastry chef József Dobos in the 19th century,in 1885. History says this cake was even served to Emperor Franz Joseph I and Queen Elisabeth at a banquet in 1886. The cake is made up of several thin sponge layers and each layer is sandwiched with rich chocolate buttercream and caramel. The cherry on the cake is the hard and brittle caramel topping garnished with chopped nuts. The use of buttercream is often regarded as a revolutionary agent in the recipe of cake. The recipe of the cake was kept a secret until Chef József Dobos retired.
7. Halászlé
As the name of the dish suggests, Fisherman’s soup’s key ingredient is fish. It is mainly prepared with freshwater fishes like carp, catfish, perch, and pike. The history of the dish dates back to the time when the fishermen along the Tisza and Danube rivers would make the soup of the fish using their catch of the day. The fish is typically cooked in a paprika-based broth, which gives the soup its distinctive red color and rich flavor. This dish is served on special occasions like Christmas Eve dinners and in closed gatherings. To add to the glamor of the dish, there is even a National Fisherman's Soup Festival held every year in Baja, which attracts thousands of visitors from all around the world.
8. Túrós Csusza
Taste the ultimate comfort of every Hungarian is the Túrós Csusza, a perfect mix of pasta with cottage cheese. It was in the 19th century that the use of cottage cheese became a staple for Hungarian farmers. Since then, the mix of cottage cheese with different elements like pasta to make it taste even better. The basic ingredients for Túrós Csusza are noodles, cottage cheese, sour cream, and butter. This savory dish is first boiled in salt water and then combined with bacon, sour cream, and butter. Some people also add ham to the dish. There is also a sweet version of the same dish named the Túrós Tészta, where the bacon is replaced with sugar.
9. Rakott Krumpli
The Rakott krumpli is one of the easiest-to-make food items in Hungary, packed with flavors and tastes. This hearty dish is made with layers of sliced potatoes, boiled eggs, and smoked sausage, all baked in a creamy sour cream sauce. This dish was born to use the leftover food in Hungarian families and make each meal as affordable as it can be. To make the dish perfect, keep in mind to make the potatoes thinly sliced. If there is the availability of smoked sausage, it will add to the flavor and a little bit of paprika and garlic powder will be an extra burst of flavor to Rakot ll crumple.
10. Székelykáposzta
Tru is the classic Hungarian stew that is perfect for colder weather or when you're craving something comforting. Also known as Szekler-style cabbage, this dish originated in the Szekely region of Transylvania by the Szekely people of Hungary. What makes the dish tasty is the usage of pork, sauerkraut, and sour cream together. Once the pork is cooked till brown, and the cabbage is cooked, add an ample amount of sauerkraut to the pot. Let all the flavors simmer and mix until the Székelykáposzta is ready.
11. Töltött Paprika
Very similar to stuffed cabbage, stuffed peppers have also originated in Hungary. Töltött Paprika is famous for its unique flavor and its place in Hungarian culture. It is made up of bell peppers which are stuffed with a mixture of ground pork or beef. The filling also consists of rice, and seasonal vegetables, and the entire filling is tossed in a tomato-based sauce. In different eateries, you can also find this dish tossed with flavored potatoes, herbs, and sauteed onions.
12. Kaiserschmarrn
Kaiserschmarrn is a traditional Austrian and Hungarian dessert that translates to "Emperor's mess”. It is one of the most popular desserts in Hungary and is made up of egg, flour, sugar, and milk. This sweet dish has a lot of stories attached to its birth. It is said that the dish was created for Emperor Franz Joseph I, who was traveling through the Austrian Alps. When the emperor stopped at a mountain inn, the chef inside overcooked the pancake and to save himself from humiliation, he shredded it and that's where the name comes from. He then served it with fruit compote, making it an absolute favorite of the emperor. To add more flavor to this, you can also add dry fruits and raisins as toppings.
13. Somlói Galuska
If you are in Hungary, then do not miss the chance to taste this traditional and iconic dessert of Hungary the Somlói Galuska a.k.a. The Trifle dessert. It is traditionally made up of three layers of sponge cake, each layer is different from the other in flavor. The dessert is named after the Somló hill in western Hungary, which is a region known for its wines and culinary delights. In the three layers, you can taste chocolate, vanilla, and walnut infused with an ample amount of raisin, walnuts, whipped cream, and chocolate sauce. Many new variations of Trifle Dessert have also crowded the market, like the addition of rum in the sponge cake mixtures to make it juicier, using a wide variety of nuts like almonds and hazelnuts, the addition of fruits and using caramel instead of chocolate sauce. The best part is the dessert has won several awards and accolades, including being named the "Best Hungarian Dessert" in 2009
14. Főzelék – Hungarian Vegetable Stew
Try this traditional vegetarian dish Fozelek in Hungary, available almost on every street corner and in every restaurant. The birth of Fozelek can be traced back to the 19th century when this dish was primarily made as a source of rich nutrition after a laborious day at work. It was made with root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and turnips. But now different new players have also joined the game like spinach, peas, and green beans. The vegetables are typically diced or sliced and cooked in a broth made with water, flour, and spices. Seasonings like paprika, salt, and pepper are added to enhance the flavor of the dish. New variations of this dish are also gaining popularity in restaurants, where meat or poultry is also added.
15. Pörkölt
Pörkölt is often regarded as the national stew of Hungary, for its flavors, spices, and taste and is often ordered as a side dish with pasta, noodle, or egg dumplings. This dish originated in Hungary but is now widespread in Central Europe, with its kinds of variations in flavors. The key to a great Pörkölt is in the seasoning. The quality of the meat also defines the outcome of the dish as well. The best Pörkölt is made with high-quality beef, pork, or lamb, which is slowly cooked to perfection. The meat becomes tender and flavorful, and the juices infuse the rest of the dish, creating a rich and satisfying flavor. You can also enjoy Pörkölt with some rice or bread as well.
16. Pork Bone Soup
This classic Hungarian Pork Bone Soup dish has been enjoyed for generations, and for good reason. This soup is filled with ample health benefits and tastes delicious with pork bone supplements. once the meat is put on high flame to boil, it is rinsed in clear water and is again put on flame for more than 30 minutes to make the meat tender and soft. Once done, the vegetables are poured and cooked well. The meat and the vegetables are served separately in one bowl and the soup in another. Make a note that the Transylvanian Orjaleves is quite different from the Hungarian one.
17. Mádartej
Mádartej, also known as "milk from Mád," originated in the town of Mád, which is located in the Tokaj region of Hungary. The popularity of dessert in this region grew during the 19th century when it was served at family functions of wealthy people only. What sets Mádartej apart from other custard desserts is its creamy texture and unique flavor. The vanilla flavor of the custard with subtle sweetness gives the perfect richness of milk to it. The addition of egg yolks gives the dessert a silky smooth texture that melts in your mouth. It is called the Hungarian Floating Island for the fluffy egg white texture should float perfectly on the vanilla custard island for the perfect look.
18. Jókai Bean Soup
Named after famous Hungarian author Mor Jokai, this food is a must-try in Hungary. It is said that the author used to visit a restaurant in Balatonfured and used to order only a bowl of bean soup, which was his favorite. As time passed, this soup also came to be known by his name. The key ingredients of the dish are the perfectly flavored sausage, smoked pork, and pinto beans. It is often served as a side dish with a crispy bread bun or some sour cream dollop.
19. Töltött Káposzta
The translation of Töltött káposzta means stuffed cabbage. It is believed that the dish first originated in Transylvania, a region that is now part of modern-day Romania. This delicious meal is made by stuffing cabbage leaves, once they are blanched properly. The cabbage leaves are stuffed with a mixture of ground pork, rice, and a variety of spices. Small balls of this mixture are made and placed in one cabbage leaf. Then it is simmered in a rich tomato sauce until they are tender and bursting with flavor. Apart from the traditional recipe, you can also try the other variations like Töltött Káposzta soup with beef broth and diced vegetables and Transylvanian Töltött Káposzta with smoked bacon filling.
20. Diós Bejgli
Rolled up with walnut paste in a soft dough, this traditional walnut roll of Hungary is a staple in the city and is also prepared on many important occasions for celebrations. At first, the door is prepared using flour, butter, sugar, and yeast. One city ready the do is ruled out and filled with the walnut cinnamon and Vanilla extract filling and then again rolled up for the final touch. The combination of the ground walnuts, sugar, and cinnamon creates a rich, nutty, and slightly sweet taste that is complemented by the fluffy yeast dough. This roll can be served as a side dish with dishes such as szaloncukor (chocolate-covered fondant candies), töltött káposzta (stuffed cabbage rolls), and sült hal (roasted fish).
21. Pogacsa
Do not forget to try the unique traditional biscuits of Hungary named the Pogacsa. also known as pogácsa or pogácska, this savory biscuit is believed to have originated in the Ottoman Empire during the 16th century. As the name suggests, Pogacsa means a round, flat bread. These biscuits can be both salty and sweet.
22. Sour Cherry Soup
A perfect dish to enjoy the summer heat is the Sour Cherry Soup made up of meggy leaves. This sweet and tangy soup is a refreshing treat for the taste buds and a perfect summer delight. The dish found its first mention in the 1858 Hungarian cookbook, The New Domestic Handbook. The key ingredient of this dish is Morello cherries. One can also use any tar pie cherry for the dish. The cherries are first boiled with sugar syrup for about 10 minutes. Once done, the already prepared sour cream mixture is to be tempered with hot cherry liquid and whisked until smooth. It is then cooled down with plastic wrap on the top and served cold and fresh as a perfect summer getaway. You can also have a dollop of whipped cream as an accompaniment.
23. Chocolate Bun
Once chocolate became popular in Hungary, the rise of Chocolate Buns also became prevalent slowly. This is a famous chocolate pastry, perfect for anybody who has a sweet tooth. This pastry was first born in the early 20th century and was first made with simple dough filled with a mixture of cocoa powder, sugar, and butter. Once the dough is baked until golden brown, it is then rolled out into a rectangular shape. The filling is evenly spread over the dough and then the dough is rolled up into a spiral shape. Today, the recipe has evolved to include various flavors and fillings, but the classic chocolate bun remains a favorite among Hungarians and visitors alike.
24. Tejberízs – Rice Pudding
In Hungary, rice pudding is known as "Tejberízs," which translates to "milk rice." Making this creamy, sweet, and soft rice pudding is easy and simple. It only needs a few basic elements like milk, rice, sugar, and vanilla extract to add to the flavor. Once the rice takes a soft texture in the boiling milk, sugar, and vanilla extract are added to the pot and it is stirred until it becomes creamy. Once the pudding is done, it can be served warm or chilled and topped with cinnamon, fruit, or jam. Different variations of rice pudding are available in Hungary, including adding a dollop of whipped cream as a topping.
25. Túró Gombóc
If you want to taste something sweet, pillowy, tasty, and delightful, try the Túró gombóc, also known as cottage cheese dumplings in Hungary. Now regarded as a traditional cuisine in Hungary, but its origin was during the 16th century in the Royal kitchens of the emperors and later slowly slipped into the households of common people. The key ingredient in Túrógombóc is túró, a type of Hungarian cottage cheese. Turo, flour, eggs, sugar, and salt are mixed properly and made into small balls. Once these balls are boiled, it is then rolled over the prepared golden brown breadcrumbs, along with a dollop of sour cream. Túrógombóc is typically served as a dessert, although it can also be eaten as a breakfast dish or a light snack. The dish is best served warm and is often accompanied by a sweet sauce made from fruit or jam. You can also find these dumplings in different filling options as well, like nuts and raisins.
