typical european foods you must try!

I can only think of one thing better than traveling: enjoying the local cuisine wherever I go, and getting to know not just the destinations, but also their flavors. With that in mind, I decided to write this post about typical European foods that, in my opinion, you absolutely must try! Oh, and there’s a bonus with traditional drinks too. Enjoy!!

First of all, it's important to remember that Europe is a huge continent made up of 50 countries. So, there's no way I could write about the traditional food of every single one of them (well, I could... but it would be a massive post!). That’s why I selected the ones I find the tastiest and most interesting, deal?

Ready to discover some of Europe’s must-try traditional foods?

Typical european foods

My list isn't in order of preference, but rather alphabetical by country. My suggestion is that you try every dish you can and enjoy an amazing food tourism experience! Oh, and you don’t have to spend tons of euros to taste Europe’s traditional dishes, there’s something for every budget.

Germany

Wurst – These are the famous German sausages, which come in many varieties and combinations of meat. One of the best-known is the currywurst, a pork sausage seasoned with curry and ketchup, usually served sliced with a side of fries.

Eisbein – Known in Brazil as “joelho de porco” (pork knuckle), it typically comes with boiled potatoes and sauerkraut, though there’s no fixed rule.

When it comes to traditional drinks, you’ll find Landhaus Weizen Korn (a spirit similar to vodka) and, of course, beer, because how could we talk about Germany without mentioning beer, right?!

Pastel de nata, the dessert that perfectly represents Portugal.

Austria

After talking about Germany, let’s chat about its neighbor, Austria.

Apfelstrudel – This is a traditional Austrian dessert beloved by many around the world. It’s a flaky pastry filled with spiced apple chunks. Sweet, comforting, and a must-try!

Belgium

Third on my list of traditional European foods is Belgium. Although it’s a small country, its culinary scene is incredibly rich.

Waffle – Belgian waffles can be served plain or topped with a variety of delicious extras like Belgian chocolate and hazelnut cream. There are even savory versions! In Brazil, for example, there’s a pão de queijo (cheese bread) waffle that’s absolutely amazing!

Moules frites – A classic Belgian dish made of steamed mussels served with crispy fries.

As for drinks, a well-known traditional Belgian spirit is jenever, a juniper-flavored liquor that’s considered the predecessor of gin and very popular across the continent.

The famous red berry waffle | Traditional european foods

England

The most traditional dish, and truly the face of the country, is fish and chips, which is nothing more than battered and fried fish served with thick-cut fries (not the typical thin ones). You'll find this dish in virtually every city in the UK, and it’s one of those traditional European foods that won’t break the bank.

Ireland

• Shepherd’s Pie – In short, it’s similar to a Brazilian "escondidinho." This savory pie is filled with minced meat and topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Comfort food at its best.

  
  

• Boxty – A potato pancake that’s especially common in the Donegal region. Crispy outside, soft inside, a classic Irish side dish or breakfast item.

  
  

• Irish Breakfast – Like its American counterpart, this breakfast is a hearty meal far from the typical Brazilian morning fare. Instead of a simple toast, expect a plate loaded with bacon, toast, eggs, sausages, mushrooms, tomato, potatoes, and baked beans, usually paired with a cup of tea or coffee.

  
  

As for drinks, Ireland is home to one of the world’s most iconic beers: Guinness. If you’re visiting Dublin, don’t miss the chance to tour the Guinness Storehouse https://www.guinness-storehouse.com/en  and enjoy a pint at the famous Temple Bar. #ProTip

Guinness is the traditional beer of Ireland and is also highly appreciated in many other European countries.

Another typical and very tasty drink is Bailey's liqueur, made with cream and coffee. It can be enjoyed on its own or used in cocktail recipes to add a unique flavor. 

Portugal

• Codfish (Bacalhau) – Most people immediately think of cod when it comes to Portuguese cuisine. It’s the most iconic dish in the country and can be served in many ways, as a main course (like the famous bacalhoada, baked with potatoes) or as an appetizer (such as bolinhos de bacalhau or pataniscas).

  
  

• Pastel de Belém – If cod is the king of savory dishes, then this is the queen of desserts! Also known as pastel de nata, it’s not overly sweet and has a perfectly crispy puff pastry base. Worth trying for sure! Fun fact: pastel de nata and pastel de Belém are the same pastry, but the de Belém version is the original, made and sold in the Belém neighborhood of Lisbon.

Cod dishes can vary widely.

When it comes to typical drinks, Port wine is one of the most famous and admired in the world. When you're in Portugal, try to take a little trip to the city of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia for a tasting session at the wine cellars. The distance between the Portuguese capital and Porto is about 300 km (around 3 hours by car or train), and it’s definitely worth renting a car and setting aside a few days to explore the towns along the way.

So, which typical European dish do you want to try first? Personally, I love culinary tourism and I always try everything! If you're planning your trip and need itinerary ideas, check out the other posts on the blog, there are tons of great tips here!

Kisses and see you soon!