Hungary’s Delicious Cuisines
One of the oldest European countries, Hungary is a destination filled with rich history and a unique culture – one that its residents are fiercely proud of. It is home to one of the world’s most famous and beautiful cities, Budapest, and boasts fascinating historical finds from 2,000 year old ancient Roman ruins to monuments dating back some 400 years. The landscape is spectacular, from the pristine fresh water of the Balaton to the hundreds of natural mineral springs that gush from beneath the country’s fertile ground. In addition to their distinctive language and culture, Hungarians are particularly known for their warm hospitality and the delectable and distinctive dishes they prepare.
Hungarian dishes are typically prepared using staples like meat, seasonal vegetables, fresh fruit, breads, cheeses and honey. The food often has a spicy undertone, particularly due to hot paprika, which is commonly used in most dishes. Unlike other countries, lunch is the major meal of the day in Hungary, rather than dinner, and usually includes several courses. Here are five foods to try while visiting the beautiful country of Hungary.
Goulash – This dish is like a Hungarian version of a hearty stew or soup and typically contains ingredients such as meat, vegetables (especially potatoes) and is deliciously seasoned with paprika and a number of other mouthwatering spices. Goulash may come in many varieties that differ based on omission or addition of different ingredients such as adding sauerkraut, leaving out the potatoes or using smoked pork instead of beef. Whatever type you are able to sample while in Hungary, you’re sure to find yourself reaching for a second helping.
Halaszle – Another popular soup dish, Halaszle is a particular favorite of those who like hot or spicy foods since it’s based on spicy paprika as a main ingredient. It typically contains fish, hence it’s nickname “Fisherman’s Soup”, and is uniquely prepared using a kettle. Traditionally, it was prepared by the fishermen over an open fire right on the banks of the river from which the fish was caught – doesn’t get any fresher than that! Of course, you don’t have to hike down to the river bank to try this yummy dish. You can find the soup at many of the local eateries as well. Just don’t forget to ask for some bread to soak up that tasty broth and spices!
Hurka – While Hungarian dishes often contain delicious fresh vegetables and fruit, the country’s main source of sustenance is meat – namely, sausage. Hurka is a type of broiled sausage which can be found in varying recipes and flavors throughout the country. Different regions prepare their sausage differently, but all are incredibly tasty in their own right. There are two main types of Hurka: májas hurka, which is made from pork liver, meat and rice; and véres hurka, also known as black sausage. If you’re a meat lover, get ready to sink your teeth into some of the best tasting sausage on earth!
Turos Csusza – This traditional pasta dish is prepared with either a savory curd cheese or cottage cheese and noodles. The noodles are typically homemade and torn into bite-sized pieces by hand before being cooked. The pasta is combined with butter, cheese, chopped bacon and topped with a traditional Hungarian sour cream sauce before being heated in the oven. Turos Csusza can be found throughout Hungary in different variations, some sweet some savory, but all fantastically delicious.
Dobos Torte – If all of these main dishes aren’t enough to fill your belly to the brim, a delicious Hungarian dessert will certainly do the job. Dobos Torte is a delectable five-layer sponge cake which contains layers of rich chocolate buttercream and is topped with thin slices of caramel, which helps keep the cake from drying out. This sinfully delicious treat was named after its creator, József C. Dobos back in 1884 and has been gracing the plates of locals and tourists alike ever since. 
While there are plenty of savory desserts to sample in Hungary, Dobos Torte tops the must-try list.
The charming country of Hungary may be small, but what it lacks in square footage it more than makes up for in beauty, culture and a unique personality as colorful as the people who call it home. Whether it’s a romantic getaway for two or a journey for the whole family to enjoy, you’ll find everything you need in this one perfect destination. And when all the shopping, exploring and sightseeing is done for the day, you’ll get to enjoy some of the most delectable cuisine in the world. These are just five of the countless Hungarian dishes you’ll want to try during your stay. What are you waiting for? Come have a taste of your own!