3Europe is home to a wide variety of culinary delights worth trying on your travels. Each country has its own specialties, shaped by local ingredients, cooking techniques, and flavors, ranging from hearty main courses to pastries and desserts.
If you're planning a trip to Europe, this culinary guide can help you decide which local dishes to try. Sampling local dishes is also a great way to discover each destination's culture through food that has long been part of its traditions.
ALSO READ: 11 Must-Try Spanish Dishes That Will Make You Drool!
European cuisine offers plenty of variety, with each dish reflecting the local ingredients and culinary traditions of its country of origin. Here are some dishes worth trying on your next trip.
Pizza Margherita originated in Naples, Italy, and has become one of the country's most iconic dishes. This classic pizza is made with a thin crust topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil.
The combination of these simple ingredients creates a balance of fresh, savory flavors. When visiting Italy, you can explore different pizza varieties, as each region has its own dough styles and serving traditions.
Paella is a rice-based dish that originated in Valencia, Spain. It is typically seasoned with saffron, a spice derived from the stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower, and can be prepared with seafood, chicken, or other ingredients.
One of paella's defining features is that it is prepared in a wide, shallow pan, allowing the rice and other ingredients to cook evenly. If you enjoy savory rice dishes with rich, aromatic flavors, paella is worth trying during your visit to Spain.
Escargot is a traditional French dish made from land snails. They are typically cooked with butter, garlic, and parsley, creating a savory flavor complemented by fresh herbal notes.
Escargot is often served as an appetizer. If you're looking to venture beyond familiar Indonesian dishes, this French specialty is worth trying.
Bratwurst is a traditional German sausage typically grilled and made from meat seasoned with various spices. Depending on the variety, it can be made from pork, beef, or veal.
Bratwurst is commonly served with bread and mustard. It's also a popular choice for a quick, casual meal while exploring Germany.
Wiener Schnitzel is an Austrian dish made with thin slices of veal coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden brown. The crispy outer layer complements the soft, tender meat inside.
The dish is typically served with lemon wedges and potatoes or salad. Wiener Schnitzel is a great choice if you want to try traditional Austrian cuisine, particularly when visiting Vienna.
Moussaka is a layered baked dish made with eggplant, minced meat, tomato sauce, and béchamel sauce. At first glance, it may remind you of lasagna, but moussaka uses eggplant rather than pasta for its layers.
The combination of eggplant, meat, tomatoes, and béchamel creates a rich blend of textures and flavors. This dish is a great introduction to European cuisine with Mediterranean flavors.
Goulash is a traditional Hungarian soup or stew made with meat and seasoned with paprika. With its rich, savory broth, goulash makes for a hearty meal.
It's often served with bread or potatoes. The dish also reflects Central and Eastern European culinary traditions, where meat, vegetables, and spices play an important role in everyday cooking.
Fish and chips is one of England's most iconic dishes. It consists of battered, deep-fried fish served with a side of thick-cut potato chips.
The dish is commonly made with cod or haddock, although other types of fish can also be used. Fish and chips is often served with mushy peas, a dipping sauce, a sprinkle of salt, or a splash of malt vinegar.
Belgian waffles are a great choice for those with a sweet tooth. They have a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior.
Waffles can be served with a variety of toppings, including powdered sugar, fruit, whipped cream, chocolate, or syrup. Enjoying one warm makes for a delightful snack while exploring Belgium.
Pastel de nata is a traditional Portuguese pastry consisting of a small tart filled with custard. Its pastry shell has delicate, flaky layers, while the creamy center gives a smooth, sweet flavor.
This pastry is perfect for a light snack or dessert during your trip. Pastel de nata also pairs well with coffee, making it a lovely treat to enjoy while taking a break from exploring Portugal's attractions.
Beef bourguignon is a traditional French dish made with beef slowly braised in Burgundy wine, along with vegetables and bacon. The long cooking process results in tender meat and a rich, well-developed flavor.
This dish is typically served as a main course and is ideal if you want to experience French cuisine with bold, savory flavors. It is also often enjoyed with a baguette on the side.
ALSO READ: 10 Must-Try Australian Foods for Culinary Lovers
Trying European food is a fun way to explore each destination from a different perspective. From simple Italian pizza and flavorful Spanish paella to sweet Portuguese pastel de nata, every dish tells a story about the traditions and culture of its place of origin.
As you put together your European itinerary, remember to include more than just sightseeing. Leave some room to seek out local specialties and enjoy culinary experiences to make your trip even more memorable.
To help you prepare for a more comfortable journey, consider adding Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia to your checklist. With benefits available subject to your policy's terms and conditions, you can explore Europe and enjoy its culinary delights with greater peace of mind.
So, what are you waiting for? Explore your options and choose Travel Insurance that suits your needs with MSIG Indonesia!
TRAVEL INSURANCE
SPORT INSURANCE
MUDIK AMAN
PERSONAL ACCIDENT
MOTOR VEHICLE INSURANCE
