Culinary Specialities Romania

Besides the diverse nature, breathtaking landscapes, various cities, and numerous attractions in Romania, there is much more to discover: the culinary specialties of the country. The range is broad, so everyone can find something suitable. In this article, you will get to know the typical dishes of Romania.

In Romanian cuisine, many different influences come together. Ingredients and preparation methods vary by region. Neighboring countries, as well as the traditions of immigrants, particularly shape the dishes. Some dishes are reminiscent of Austrian or Greek cuisine, while others are complemented by Slavic, Turkish, or Hungarian specialties.

Since many main dishes are served with rich side dishes, meals are often very filling. Lunch and dinner in particular tend to be high in calories, while breakfast is comparatively light.

Romanian Appetizers

Mămăligă (vegetarian)

Cornmeal porridge is one of the Romanian national dishes and originates from agricultural regions. The main ingredients are cornmeal and 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 varieties with potatoes, cheese, or cabbage, as well as sweet fillings with poppy seeds, jam, or apple. Also ideal for on the go.

Zacuscă (vegetarian)

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

Salată de vinete (vegan/vegetarian)

Despite its name, this is actually more of a dip made from grilled eggplant, sunflower oil, and lemon juice. Mayonnaise is sometimes used as well, making the dish vegetarian rather than vegan.

Salată de icre (contains fish)

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

Soups and Stews

Ciorbă de legume (vegetarian)

A sour 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 variant contains tripe, garlic, and paprika, and is one of the most famous soups in Romania.

Ciorbă de văcuță (contains meat)

A beef soup with onions, potatoes, tomatoes, or borș, refined with vegetables, spices, and a bit of 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 hearty stew made from pork, smoked sausages, wine, and spices, served with cornmeal 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 tomato sauce.

Frigărui

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

Ardei umpluți

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

Desserts and Sweets

Papanași

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

Lapte de pasăre

Meringue dumplings in vanilla sauce, optionally with nuts.

Cozonac

Traditional yeast bread with nuts, poppy seeds, or sugar, also popular in other Balkan countries.

Drinks

Romania is known for its wines and spirits. In addition to coffee, tea, and soft drinks, schnapps in particular is very popular.

Alexandrion

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

Țuică

Traditional plum brandy, often served as an aperitif.

Vişinată

Popular sour cherry liqueur.

The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey

Romanian cuisine offers a wide variety of flavors and dishes, from savory to sweet. Whether you're a meat lover, 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 inform yourself in advance about the toll regulations in Romania. Feel free to use our route planner for your trip planning. If you have any questions, we are available at any time via email.