9 Must-Try Traditional European Foods That Define the Continent Europe is not just famous for its historical heritage, grand palaces and art works, but its food is also equally rich, diverse and interesting. Every country here has a different culture, taste and food tradition hidden in it. In case you are visiting Europe or simply feel like knowing the tastes of the world, then you should certainly give these 9 mainstream European foods a go. These foods are the spirit of Europe and saturating its diversity with a tasty form.
Pizza Napoletana of Italy
Pizza is the first entree that comes to the mind when hearing the name of Italy. However, Naples pizza, i.e. Napolitana pizza is the true one. It is made of fresh mozzarella, sugar tomato sauce, olive oil and thin base cooked in a wooden oven. The pizza is not only tasty but also the tradition and the simplicity of Italy.
Croissant from France
It won’t be wrong to call France the capital of baking. Croissant is a butter bread that is flaky and accompanied by morning coffee. Food is not the only representation of this dish but it is also a way of life of the French. It has soft layers and buttery flavor that dissolves in the mouth.
Paella from Spain When we refer to Spain and not a food like Paella then we are about to create an incomplete dialogue. It is a traditional dish cooked of the rice with saffron and sea food (e.g. prawns, mussels), chicken and vegetables. Valencia has popularized in the world with this dish and this dish is usually prepared during family meetings or during festivals.
Bratwurst from Germany
Germany is famous for its sausages and bratwurst is the most popular of them. It is made of pork or beef and is grilled. It is usually eaten with mustard and bread rolls. This dish is as common on the streets as it is in restaurants.
Moussaka from Greece
Moussaka is a layered dish of eggplant, potatoes, ground meat (usually lamb) and layers of creamy white sauce. It is baked in the oven and is often made in Greek homes. It may taste like Indian lasagna, but with a European herbal flavour.
Cheese Fondue from Switzerland
Snow-clad Swiss Alps and warm cheese fondue – what a perfect combination! Fondue is a melted mixture of cheese and bread dipped in it. It is a dish especially meant for gatherings with friends or family. It also reflects the social culture of the place – gatherings.
Fish and Chips from the UK
This is a simple but tasty dish which has now come to be a symbol of Britain. It is fried fish and french fries dipped with vinegar and salt. It is normally cooked in small hotels or pubs along the sea.
Hungarian Goulash Goulash is a beef, onions, paprika and other spices made of beef stew. The dish is best suited to warm the body in cold climate and has a pungent and spicy flavor. This classic Hungarian dish nowadays is consumed by many European countries.
Polish Pierogi
Pierogi is a famous dish of Poland which is boiled or fried dumplings. They are stuffed with potatoes, cheese, cabbage or meat. It is served with sour cream or onions. This dish is also liked by those who like the taste of Indian samosas or momos.
Conclusion
European food is something like European soul- diverse, rich and marvelous. You are literally able to go through these 9 traditional dishes; besides tasting the tastes of the numerous countries, you will also be able to have a closer touch of culture, history and style of life in those countries. You should attempt to taste these dishes when you ever have an opportunity to visit Europe or European restaurant. These are not just food, but experiences – a combination of taste and culture.