The highlight of a trip to Austria is making the most of the country’s breathtaking scenery, enjoying that crisp mountain air… and perhaps challenging yourself to some hiking or skiing on those famous slopes! However, all of these things are bound to work up an appetite. Luckily, the Austrian menu is full of delicious, rich and warming foods which are bound to satisfy even the hungriest holidaymakers.
So, while you’re enjoying a stay at beautiful Viehhofen, we’ve pulled together a list of seven typical Austrian meals which are well-worth a try. From warming goulash to flaky strudel, there’s something for everyone in this mouth-watering selection.
1. Wiener Schnitzel
Perhaps the best-known Austrian dish is the schnitzel. The traditional version is made up of a thin veal escalope which has been breaded and fried. It is then served with potato salad and chips or occasionally fried potatoes, sour cream and onions. This dish is a real staple of the Austrian menu and is available everywhere, from street food kiosks to high-end restaurants!
2. Knödel
All countries have their own version of dumplings. Knödel is a form which is popular across Eastern Europe, including Austria. Varieties range from the sweet knödel, made with plums, to a cheesy side dish and even meaty versions served in soup! Whichever type you decide to try, you can be sure of a comforting, delicious mouthful packed with flavour… it's no wonder knödel are enjoyed as part of so many meals.
3. Tiroler Gröstl
Tiroler Gröstl is common in the Austrian alps, perhaps because it’s the kind of comfort food which tastes particularly delicious after a day on the slopes. It’s a pan-fried dish made from potato, chopped pork or beef, lots of butter and onion… it’s also often topped with a fried egg! You may find it called simply ‘gröstl’, as the named variety is typically found in the ski resort of Tirol. The food is brought to the table still in the hot pan, making it great sharing dish.
4. Käsespätzle
Speaking of comfort food, there’s nothing like a bowl of käsespätzle. Locals and holidaymakers alike sing the praises of this delicious dish, perfect for refuelling after a long day out and about in the fresh air. It’s the Austrian answer to macaroni cheese… soft egg noodle, similar to gnocchi or dumplings, crafted into various shapes and served with a generous serving of cheese. It’s another popular sharing dish which goes particularly well with a nice glass of wine and a spectacular mountain view.
5. Potato Gulasch
This hearty, spicy stew is a staple in Austria, despite originating in Hungary. Goulash comes in many varieties, but the potato version is one of the most popular across the country. It involves a lot of vegetables, including potatoes, onion and bell peppers, as well as sausages and a good helping of paprika. The goulash is slowly cooked, turning the sauce thick and creamy… enjoy with a slice of toasted bread and let it warm you from the inside out.
6. Kaiserschmarrn
As the name suggests (‘Kaiser’ translates to ‘King’), this is a king amongst puddings! Kaiserschmarrn is fluffy shredded pancakes (thicker and richer than those we serve in the UK), topped with some combination of powdered sugar, jam, fruit compotes or caramelised fruit. The dish originated back in the 19th Century and since then has become an Austrian staple. It’s often served as a dessert, although many people also enjoy it as a meal on its own!
7. Apfelstrudel
There’s some debate over whether the Austrians or Germans can lay claim to the strudel, but there’s no arguing its popularity in Austria. Apfelstrudel is counted amongst the country’s national foods, and involves flaky pastry lined with apple filling, spiced with cinnamon, sugar and raisins. It’s available throughout the country, from street stalls to restaurants, and is typically served with vanilla sauce or whipped cream.
This is just the start of the delightful Austrian dishes which you’ll find on offer during your break at Viehhofen. Luckily, with the beautiful surroundings and wealth of activities on offer, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to work off any number of delicious platefuls!
To learn more about how you can enjoy a stay in our beautiful Viehhofen property, as well as our many other properties throughout the UK and Europe, just get in touch or request a brochure.
