Beyond Vienna's cultural grandeur as the capital of Austria, it offers many culinary experiences that foodie travellers will love.
As a Europe and Austrian travel expert, I want to share my favourite two food experiences with you - perfect for general travellers to Austria, but an absolute MUST for foodies.
In Vienna, the iconic meal is a Wiener Schnitzel.
What is it?
A Viennese schnitzel, or Wiener Schnitzel in German, is a traditional Austrian dish that consists of a thinly pounded piece of veal, pork, or sometimes chicken, coated in flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs, and then fried until golden brown.
It's usually served with a slice of lemon and often accompanied by potato salad or fries. Try it. You will love it.
TOP TIP: Don't ask for a Chicken Parmi in Austria!
For dessert, it has to be Apple Strudel.
Apple strudel, or "Apfelstrudel" as it's known in Austria, is a cherished traditional pastry with a deep-rooted history dating back to the 18th century. This pastry is distinguished by its thin, flaky layers of dough encasing a filling of spiced apples, raisins, sugar, cinnamon, and occasionally breadcrumbs or nuts. The dough is usually rolled out thinly to achieve its signature flaky texture. Apple strudel plays a notable role in Austrian food culture and is frequently savored as a dessert or sweet snack. It's typically served warm, either by itself or topped with whipped cream, vanilla sauce, or a scoop of ice cream.
What do I most love eating in Vienna? A Bismarck Herring in a Baguette.
Delicious.
What is it?
Bismarck herring is a tasty, marinated herring hailing from Northern European culinary traditions. It is very popular in Germany and Austria and is often used as an appetiser or accompaniment to bread or potatoes. It is named after Otto von Bismarck, the first Chancellor of the German Empire.
In Vienna, it is savoured within a baguette as a convenient way to relish this time-honoured delicacy while on the move.
Bismarck herring is made by filleting the herring and marinating the fillets in a blend of vinegar, sugar, onions, and an array of spices. This is then combined with gherkin, onion rings and parsley in a crispy baguette.
Try it; you may love it as I do!
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