Beneath the grandeur of Europe’s iconic landmarks, lies a treasure trove of delectable traditional dishes that can transport you to the continent without ever having to leave your kitchen.
From hearty soups to crisp salads and sweet pastries like strudel, these European recipes are the next best thing to immersing yourself in the local culture of each country. Beyond its renowned castles and churches, Europe’s rich heritage is also reflected in its culinary landscape.
Chestnut Soup
Delightful and comforting, this creamy soup is a staple during holidays, warming the heart and soul with its earthy flavors. Its rich, silky texture and tantalizing taste make it a crowd-pleaser, and for good reason – it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Known as velouté in French, this puréed soup derives its complex flavor profile from a delicate balance of spices, chicken broth, carrots, and the quintessential addition of crumbled chestnuts.
Whether savored by the fire on a chilly evening or served at a festive gathering, this soup is sure to satisfy, especially when paired with a glass of sparkling wine for a truly indulgent experience.
Cabbage Rolls
Little do people know that cabbage rolls have a rich history dating back over 1500 years to ancient Germany. When it comes to comfort food, they share a similar satisfaction level with mac and cheese. This classic dish gets its health benefits from the use of seasoned ground beef, cooked rice, and tomato soup as main ingredients. Envision all these simple elements wrapped inside cabbage leaves that are then baked to tender perfection.
Interestingly, in Eastern European cuisine, cabbage rolls often come paired with chestnuts and walnuts. According to tradition, these rolls are also considered lucky during New Year’s Eve celebrations, where the cabbage leaves resemble paper money.
Greek Fries
Nestled in the heart of Greek cuisine are some delightful twists on traditional French fries. Note that these Greek fries are typically thicker than their French counterparts, which allows them to hold onto flavors like feta, garlic, and oregano more effectively. Nevertheless, it’s not just about the ingredients – the dipping sauce also plays a significant role in enhancing the overall flavor experience. A homemade tzatziki sauce made with Greek yogurt adds an extra layer of creaminess and zest.
For those who prefer a spicier kick, various seasoning options such as cumin, cayenne pepper, fresh thyme, dried dill, and paprika can be added to give your fries an extra boost of flavor.
Margherita Pizza
Lighting up the Italian culinary scene with its simplicity and flavors, Pizza Margherita is a beloved classic that embodies the country’s essence. The trio of red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil comes together to create a harmonious balance of textures and tastes. Given its widespread popularity, variations of this pizza can be found on menus in different restaurants.
Some chefs choose to add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or include fire-roasted canned tomatoes and garlic powder for added depth. However, to truly capture the authentic flavor, it’s essential to remember that restraint is key. A great Margherita pizza is one that is uncluttered and satisfying without an excessive amount of grease, allowing the natural flavors to shine through.
Ovcharaska Salad
Making use of fresh ingredients from Bulgaria, Ovcharaska salad is an upgraded version of a traditional dish that incorporates eggs, ham, and mushrooms. This salad has become a staple in many households due to its refreshingly delicious flavor profile, making it suitable for both lunch and dinner options. Moreover, the way to enjoy this salad is by serving all the ingredients together in one bowl with several forks provided, as per Bulgarian tradition.
It’s customary to place all the forks inside one bowl for sharing purposes, allowing everyone to dig in and savor the flavors simultaneously.
Keftedakia (Greek Meatballs)
Keftedes, or Keftedakia (smaller Keftedes), are traditional Greek meatballs that have been a staple at picnics in Greece for years. Known for their rich flavor and ease of preparation, these bite-sized delights can be made in just 40 minutes or less. One of the best things about keftedes is that they only get better with time, making them an excellent option to cook ahead of schedule.
Whether served as a main course or used as a topping for pasta, simmering the meatballs in a flavorful tomato, garlic, and onion marinara sauce adds an Italian twist to this classic Greek dish.
Romanian Cheese Donuts
Fried to perfection, Papanasi, or Romanian cheese donuts, are a delicious treat that combines soft cheese with sweet and tangy flavors. Typically made in donut shapes, these fried sweets are topped with a small donut ball and generously drizzled with fruity jam and sour cream, creating a delightful harmony of textures and tastes. As one of Romania’s most beloved desserts, you’ll find Papanasi on the menus of traditional Romanian restaurants across the country.
Bratkartoffeln (German Pan-Fried Potatoes)
Here’s what you need to know: this recipe requires just one pan, two simple ingredients, and cooks in under 30 minutes – that’s all it takes to create a dish packed with maximum flavor. The outcome is crispy, golden-brown potatoes perfectly balanced with smoky bacon and sweet caramelized onions. To give it an extra boost of flavour, consider adding some green peppers or paprika to the mix.
Serve it alongside Schnitzel or spicy German sausage for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Anglesey Eggs
Just as many traditional Welsh dishes have their origins in the country’s rich cultural heritage, Anglesey eggs are no exception. Hailing from the beautiful island of Anglesey, located off the north-west coast of Wales, this dish has its roots firmly planted in local culinary traditions. The recipe itself is relatively simple, featuring hard-boiled eggs, creamy mashed potatoes, and a rich cheese and leek sauce that adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile.
As comfort food for vegetarians, Anglesey eggs are an excellent choice, but they also pair beautifully with grilled meats, making them perfect for a filling brunch meal or even as a satisfying side dish for lunch.
Bangers and Mash
Making Bangers and Mash a Reality: A Recipe for Comfort Food PerfectionMost Brits would agree that bangers and mash is more than just a pub favorite – it’s an institution. This savory sausage recipe, paired with creamy mashed potatoes and a rich onion gravy, is nearly unbeatable. Not only can you customize the type of sausage to your liking, but thick pork sausages are the quintessential choice.
When selecting potatoes for this dish, medium-starch varieties will yield the best results in terms of flavor and texture. The gravy plays a crucial role in bringing all the flavors together, so be sure to make it rich and caramel-y!
Skordalia
Making a delicious Greek garlic dip sounds like a great idea for foodies and potato enthusiasts alike. Skordalia is a traditional Greek appetizer made from puréed potatoes that provides a thick and creamy base for the flavorful dip. Unlike some variations, this recipe sticks to a simple yet effective combination of ingredients, using minimal add-ins such as walnuts or almonds to enhance the texture and nutritional value.
With its rich, savory flavor profile, Skordalia is an excellent accompaniment to any vegetable, meat, or fish dishes, perfect for special occasions like Greek Independence Day celebrations where it’s often served alongside crispy batter-fried salted cod.
Escudella
While often referred to as Andorra’s national dish, Escudella is a hearty meaty stew that has been a staple in the country for generations. Traditionally, this savory dish is served in two distinct parts on Sundays and Thursdays: a meat broth accompanied by pasta or rice, followed by the second portion featuring all the meat from the broth along with various vegetables.
Interestingly, there’s an alternative version of Escudella known as Escudella de Nadal that is typically enjoyed on Christmas day. The unique combination of flavors in this dish is certain to leave a lasting impression and warm not only your belly but also your soul.
Apple Strudel
Unlocking the essence of European desserts, Apple Strudel stands out as a beloved treat from Germany to Croatia. The combination of a flaky, buttery crust and a spiced apple filling creates a delightful harmony of flavors. Adding a drizzle of cinnamon glaze not only elevates its taste but also transforms it into an irresistible breakfast option that’s sure to wake up even the sleepiest of palates.
While it’s perfect for any time of day, a hot cup of coffee pairs exquisitely well with this dessert. For those seeking a sweeter twist, simply top it with vanilla ice cream or create your own homemade vanilla sauce to turn Apple Strudel into a decadent dessert.
Scottish Tablet
Brushing aside common misconceptions, Scottish tablet is often mistaken for fudge due to its distinct texture. While fudge tends to be soft and smooth, Scottish tablet has a more pronounced grainy quality with a medium-hard consistency. It doesn’t quite have the firmness of candy either. The difference in texture sets it apart from other popular sweet treats. The traditional recipe for Scottish tablet involves combining sugar, condensed milk, and butter to create its unique flavor profile.
Feel free to experiment by adding extra flavors such as vanilla, whisky, or chopped nuts to give your tablet a personal twist. However, be warned: this indulgent treat has a way of becoming addictive. Even though it may last for several weeks in storage, I suspect that the kids will have it devoured within no time.
Belgian Waffles
Creating delicious Belgian-style waffles at home is certainly possible, but it does require some extra effort. Unlike the deep-pocketed American waffle, which often features thick batter and small squares, Belgian waffles boast a lighter, more refined batter that forms larger, more impressive squares. While they may not be as straightforward to make as pancakes, the end result is well worth the time and energy invested.
In fact, one of the key reasons people adore visiting breakfast restaurants is for the chance to indulge in these crispy treats. But why wait? With a little practice and patience, you can recreate the magic at home. It’s surprising how much joy a freshly baked Belgian waffle can bring to the table, especially when paired with classic butter and maple syrup toppings. However, don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings.
I find that adding caramelized bananas or cinnamon roll icing takes these already-decadent treats to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, experimenting with different combinations is all part of the fun.
Traditional Welsh Cake
Reaching back into the 19th century, Welsh cake has become an iconic tea-time favorite in Wales. Although often associated with traditional baking methods, it’s perfectly viable to cook them in a heavy frying pan. By combining elements from scones and pancakes, while also possessing characteristics reminiscent of cookies, Welsh cakes have earned their unique place in the culinary world.
They boast ingredients similar to those found in scones but are cooked in a manner more akin to pancakes on a griddle, resulting in a final product that’s comparable in size to large cookies.
Croque Monsieur
Awaken your senses with a French-inspired classic: the Croque Monsieur. This mouthwatering ham and cheese sandwich can be prepared in just a couple of minutes, thanks to its simplicity and minimal ingredients needed from your pantry. The end result is a beautifully pressed single layer of cured ham and rich Gruyere, nestled between two slices of crispy toasted bread.
To elevate the experience, don’t forget to top it off with a generous dollop of creamy béchamel sauce for an added layer of depth and indulgence.
Kaiserschmarrn
Generally speaking, Kaiserschmarrn is not a visually stunning dish, but its unique charm and flavors are sure to captivate anyone who tries it. Nicknamed Emperor’s Mess in English, this Austrian specialty has an intriguing history behind its name, which is attributed to Kaiser Franz Joseph I, the former emperor of Austria, who was particularly fond of this shredded pancake.
Swedish Meatballs
Lovingly crafted in many Swedish kitchens, IKEA’s meatballs may be famous, but nothing beats a homemade version. To achieve authentic Swedish flavors, it’s essential to incorporate allspice and nutmeg into the ground beef mixture.Adding Worcestershire sauce and mustard to the sauce itself can also create an explosion of complex flavors, elevating your dish to new heights.
Cornish Pasty
Keeping in mind its origins as a portable food for working-class individuals, the Cornish pasty is an intriguing dish that packs a punch despite its humble appearance. This slow-baked pie has a rich history that dates back to the time when it served as a convenient and nourishing meal for farmers, tin miners, and fishermen in Cornwall. One of the defining characteristics of this hand-held pie is its compact size, which allows for easy consumption without the need for utensils.
According to historical accounts, resourceful wives would often prepare Cornish pasties that were divided into two sections. The one half typically contained a savory filling, while the other had a sweet treat in store. This ingenious combination made it a complete and satisfying meal for those who needed a quick energy boost.
Risalamande
You can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia when you think about traditional Danish desserts served during the holiday season. Specifically, Risalamande is one that stands out from the rest. This creamy rice pudding-based treat is infused with the subtle flavor of almonds and topped off with a sweet cherry sauce. While it may look elegant, making Risalamande is actually quite straightforward.
To give your rice pudding an extra special touch, simply fold in some vanilla-flavored whipped cream and sprinkle chopped almonds on top. Finally, drizzle the sweet cherry sauce over the mixture and garnish with fresh mint for that perfect festive touch.
Danish Red Berry Pudding (Rødgrød Med Fløde)
Among the many delicious desserts found in Danish cuisine, one traditional treat stands out – a silky pudding made from four different red berries: strawberry, raspberry, blackcurrant, and redcurrant. Typically, this dish is prepared by the end of summer when the berries are in season and readily available. While using all four varieties adds to the complexity and flavor profile of the dessert, you can opt for just one type of berry if that’s your preference.
If strawberries are your chosen berry, keep in mind that you may need to adjust the amount of sugar used to avoid an overly sweet result.
Italian Brownie Cake
Delight your taste buds with an Italian twist on the classic brownie, a decadent dish that combines the best of both worlds. Unlike traditional yeast-based desserts and heavy flour-rich recipes, this Italian brownie cake relies on minimal ingredients, making it surprisingly light and tender in texture. Its resemblance to a rich fudgy brownie is undeniable, but with an Italian flair that sets it apart from its American counterpart.
Eton Mess
Understanding the simplicity and elegance of traditional English desserts is essential for appreciating the beauty of Eton Mess. This quintessential dessert, comprising macerated strawberries, crunchy meringue, and whipped cream, has captured the hearts of many with its delightful combination. Originating from Eton College, where it was a staple at the school’s annual sports events, Eton Mess has become an iconic treat in England.
As one of the most-loved desserts in the country, it embodies heaven in a bowl and is a joy to savor. Moreover, the versatility of this recipe allows for creative variations by substituting strawberries with raspberries or apricots, resulting in an array of new flavors.
Laura Hauser is a food writer and editor passionate about authentic, approachable home cooking.
