Culinary Specialties

Alongside Romania’s diverse nature, breathtaking landscapes, varied cities, and numerous sights, there is much more to discover: the country’s culinary specialties. The range is broad, so everyone will find something that suits them. In this article, you’ll get to know typical Romanian dishes.

In Romanian cuisine, many different influences come together. Ingredients and preparation methods vary by region. Neighboring countries as well as the traditions of immigrants have shaped these dishes in particular. Some foods are reminiscent of Austrian or Greek cuisine, while others are enriched by Slavic, Turkish, or Hungarian specialties.

Because many main courses are served with hearty side dishes, meals are often very filling. Lunch and dinner are usually high in calories, while breakfast tends to be comparatively light.

Romanian Appetizers

Mămăligă (vegetarian)

Cornmeal porridge is one of Romania’s national dishes and comes from agriculturally influenced regions. The main ingredients are cornmeal and either water or milk. Alternatively, there is a baked version with sheep’s cheese. The dish is similar to Italian polenta.

Plăcintă (vegetarian)

Plăcintă is a filled and fried flatbread. There are savory versions with potatoes, cheese, or cabbage, as well as sweet fillings such as poppy seeds, jam, or apple. It’s also ideal to take on the go.

Zacuscă (vegetarian)

Zacuscă is a creamy vegetable spread made from eggplant, peppers, and tomatoes. The vegetables are cooked or roasted, then puréed and seasoned. The spread is usually served with bread.

Salată de vinete (vegan/vegetarian)

Despite the name, this is more of a dip made from grilled eggplant, sunflower oil, and lemon juice. Sometimes mayonnaise is used, making the dish vegetarian rather than vegan.

Salată de icre (contains fish)

This creamy dip is made from fish roe, usually carp, and sunflower oil. It is often served with olives, onions, or capers.

Soups and Stews

Ciorbă de legume (vegetarian)

A tangy vegetable soup based on Borș. The types of vegetables vary by region, and potatoes are sometimes added as well.

Ciorbă de burtă (contains meat)

This version includes tripe, garlic, and paprika and is one of Romania’s best-known soups.

Ciorbă de văcuță (contains meat)

A beef soup with onions, potatoes, tomatoes or Borș, refined with vegetables, spices, and a little cream.

Rasol (contains meat)

A hearty stew with meat and vegetables, traditionally served in two courses: first the broth, then the meat and side dishes.

Tochitură Moldovenească (contains meat)

A rich stew made with pork, smoked sausages, wine, and spices, served with corn polenta.

Main Dishes

Bulz

Cornmeal dumplings with a cheese filling, baked or fried, often served with bacon or a fried egg.

Mititei

Grilled minced-meat rolls made from beef, pork, or lamb, heavily seasoned and usually served with mustard.

Sarmale

Cabbage rolls filled with minced meat, rice, and spices in a tomato sauce.

Frigărui

Meat and vegetable skewers, pan-fried or grilled, usually served with salad and a garlic dip.

Ardei umpluți

Stuffed peppers with minced meat, rice, and spices, simmered or baked in the oven.

Desserts and Sweet Treats

Papanași

Donut-like fried dough, served with sour cream, jam, and fruit.

Lapte de pasăre

Meringue dumplings in vanilla sauce, optionally with nuts.

Cozonac

Traditional sweet braided bread with nuts, poppy seeds, or sugar, also common in other Balkan countries.

Drinks

Romania is known for its wines and spirits. Alongside coffee, tea, and soft drinks, traditional spirits are especially popular.

Alexandrion

A Romanian brandy with 37.5% alcohol, which pairs well with hearty dishes.

Țuică

Traditional plum brandy, often served as an aperitif.

Vișinată

A popular sour-cherry liqueur.

The DMC Team Wishes You a Pleasant Journey

Romanian cuisine offers a wide variety of flavors and dishes, from savory to sweet. Whether you love meat, are vegetarian, or vegan: there’s something for every taste. We wish you a pleasant trip to Romania and lots of fun on your road trip. Please make sure to inform yourself in advance about the toll regulations in Romania. Feel free to use our route planner for your travel planning. If you have any questions, you can reach us anytime via email.