Austrian cuisine is heavily influenced by its neighbors such as Hungary, Czechia, and Italy, particularly due to the strong imperial history of the capital, Vienna. This has resulted in the emergence of rich, hearty main courses and elegant, world-famous pastries.
In this article, we examine Austria’s national pride, the main dish, Vienna’s legendary chocolate cake, and the practical fast food delicacy of its streets.
Here is Austria’s gourmet trio: Wiener Schnitzel, Sachertorte, and Bratwurst.
1. The Emperor of the Main Course: Wiener Schnitzel
The Wiener Schnitzel (Viennese Schnitzel) is the national dish of Austria and a delicacy protected by culinary laws. The thinness and crispiness of this dish are essential to Austrian dining.
- What is it? Very thinly pounded veal (legally required to be veal for authentic Wiener Schnitzel) is breaded in egg and breadcrumbs and fried in abundant butter or clarified butter (ghee).
- How is it Eaten? Traditionally served plain, with a slice of lemon on the side. The preferred side dishes are typically potato salad (Erdäpfelsalat) or parsley potatoes (Petersilkartoffeln).
- Why is it Special? During cooking, the schnitzel is continuously shaken (or swung) in the pan; this allows the outer coating to separate from the meat and “puff up,” which is the secret to the dish’s crispiness.
2. The Symbol of Desserts: Sachertorte
Vienna’s famous Sachertorte is not just a cake, but also a symbol of the city’s centuries-old Kaffeehaus (Coffee House) culture. It is named after Franz Sacher, who created it in 1832.
- What is it? Prepared by slicing a dense, moist chocolate cake base in the middle, spreading a thin layer of apricot jam inside, and then completely coating the whole thing with a shiny, firm chocolate glaze.
- The Trick: The original Sachertorte is produced at the Hotel Sacher in Vienna and is typically served with unsweetened, lightly whipped cream (Schlagobers) on the side.
- History: This delicacy, originally created as a birthday cake, was the subject of a years-long legal battle between the Hotel Sacher and the Demel pastry shop in Vienna over the question, “Whose Sachertorte is the Original?”
3. The Quick Street Delicacy: Bratwurst (Sausage)
In Austria, the Würstelstand (sausage stands), open day and night, especially in the streets of Vienna, are the heart of street food culture. One of the most popular items here is the Bratwurst.
- What is it? A traditional type of sausage prepared by frying or grilling. Although various types of sausages are found in Austria (e.g., Käsekrainer), Bratwurst is always a classic.
- How is it Consumed? It is usually served in a simple roll (Semmel) with plenty of mustard and ketchup. In some stands, it is eaten with cutlery alongside a slice of bread (Brot) and pickles.
- The Flavor Experience: It is an ideal, satisfying, and traditional option for quickly recharging energy on the streets of Vienna, especially during cold winter days.
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