Classic Hungarian Food and Drinks to Try: Top 10 in Hungary

Spicy, hearty, and warming, Hungarian food will join your list of favorite cuisines after your first bite. As Magyar history is full of influences from the different kingdoms that inhabited the country, you can taste the flavor influences in each dish. Usually, the first thing that comes to mind when people picture Hungarian food is the famous chimney cakes. While this sweet dessert is delicious, and part of my top 10 list, there’s more to Hungarian food for you to try. Get ready to immerse yourself in the foodie culture of Hungary with my list of classic Hungarian food and drinks to try during your visit to Hungary.

Goulash

The national dish of Hungary and everyone’s first food suggestion. Goulash is a warm, hearty beef stew made with paprika, onions, and potatoes. Sometimes the dish is served with Hungarian-style potato dumplings, which are also a must-try. The popular dish dates back to the 9th century but only became the national dish in the 1800s. If you could only try one dish during your visit, goulash is it.

Chicken Paprikash

Chicken with Paprikash sauce, which is a creamy tomato sauce with lots of paprika. However, it tends to be more on the sweeter side than the spicier side, since it is made from a type of sweeter paprika pepper. It is often served on top of Hungarian Nokedli, a type of pasta noodle.

Kürtőskalács

The iconic Hungarian chimney cakes have made their splash all over social media. As you may guess, the sugary dessert got its name from the conical shape that resembles a chimney. To prepare the chimney cakes, the dough is wrapped around a spinning cylinder over hot coals of fire. They are served usually with cinnamon sugar, but due to social media, the chimney cakes have taken on a more creative appearance, sometimes being filled with ice cream, Nutella, or fruit.

Halászlé

Also known as the famous “Fisherman’s Soup,” this dish is right at the top of popular Hungarian dishes with goulash. The soup is traditionally cooked in a kettle over a fire and is filled with a variety of fish, resembling a fisherman’s catches of the day: carp, catfish, perch, or pike. A variation of the dish is serving the soup with pasta. Oh and of course there’s paprika in it to give it some spicy flare.

Lángos

Similar to the American fried dough, this popular street food is deep-fried flatbread. However, it is not sweet like the American version. Instead, Lángos is usually served with garlic, sour cream, cheese, and sometimes ham and cabbage on top. This is one of the few Hungarian dishes that is not served with meat.

Pálinka

Hungary’s national drink is a fruit brandy that can only be distilled in Hungary, keeping the drink tied to its roots. This drink can be found at every restaurant or bar, offering different varieties and encouraging you to try every flavor. Be careful, as the drink is 37.5%-86% ABV and can sneak up on you.

Beigli

A delicious cake that is predominantly only served during the holiday season. The dessert typically includes a walnut, poppy seed, sour cherry, or a combination in the center. The long rolls are sliced and then served together, sometimes with a side of ice cream. If you’re visiting Hungary during the Christmas or Easter holiday seasons, I highly recommend seeking out this sweet treat.

Meggyleves

Also called “sour cherry soup.” It might not sound appetizing, but this soup is served as an appetizer or main meal during the warm months. This cold soup is made out of sour cherries and sugar and is served with sour cream. If you’re looking for a unique Hungarian dish to try, this is it.

Unicum

his bitter dark liquor is made out of 40 different spices and was originally developed for medicinal purposes. Today, you can find it in every restaurant and bar as it is commonly served as an aperitif or a digestive. The drink is 40% ABV and has been aged in oak barrels for over 6 months. Feel free to taste if you’d like.

Túrós Csusza

An old-fashioned traditional dish made of noodles, cottage cheese, and various other types of cheese curds. Some families and chefs will add different toppings such as bacon, onions, sour cream, or salt. The dish is best when made with small thin noodles. If you’re looking for a cheesy and filling dish, this is it.

Hungary’s culinary delights offer a journey through history and flavor. From the iconic goulash to the sweet notes of kürtőskalács and the kick of pálinka, indulging in these classic Hungarian food and drinks is an essential part of your visit. Embark on a gastronomic adventure and savor the rich and diverse tastes that define Hungary’s cultural identity. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the country through its delicious offerings—your taste buds will thank you for experiencing the authentic essence of Hungarian cuisine. Cheers to discovering the vibrant world of classic Hungarian food and drinks to try!

Considering visiting Hungary? Check out this complete travel guide!