Authentic Hungarian food is a rich tapestry of flavors, blending hearty ingredients, vibrant spices, and time-honored cooking traditions. From the iconic use of sweet and smoky paprika to comforting stews and delicate pastries, the country’s culinary offerings are as diverse as its history. Whether you’re planning a trip to Budapest or exploring the charming countryside, diving into Hungary’s traditional foods is an essential part of the experience.
In this guide, I introduce you to 16 traditional Hungarian dishes that you should know about before you visit. From beloved street foods like Lángos to classic comfort meals like Pörkölt and sweet treats like Mákos Guba, these dishes capture the heart of Hungary’s food culture. Get ready to whet your appetite and plan your culinary adventure!
Gulyás | Paprikás Csirke | Lángos | Pörkölt | Palinka | Töltött Káposzta | Kürtőskalács | Palacsinta | Lecsó | Hungarian Beer | Halászlé | Rakott Krumpli | Dobos Torte | Somlói Galuska | Mákos Guba | Túrós Csusza
1. Gulyás (Goulash)
A quintessential Hungarian dish, goulash is a hearty soup rather than a stew, as it’s often misunderstood outside of Hungary. Traditionally prepared in a cauldron over an open fire, this dish combines tender chunks of beef, onions, potatoes, carrots, and tomatoes, all seasoned with the defining spice of Hungarian cuisine—paprika. Often accompanied by fresh bread, goulash represents the perfect balance of flavor and simplicity. It’s an excellent start to experience authentic cuisine and probably the most famous Hungarian food.
2. Paprikás Csirke (Chicken Paprikash)
This creamy and flavorful dish highlights Hungary’s love affair with paprika. Tender chicken pieces are simmered in a sauce made from onions, bell peppers, paprika, and sour cream, creating a comforting, mildly spicy meal. It’s typically served with nokedli, small Hungarian dumplings similar to spaetzle, which soak up the rich, velvety sauce.
The History of Paprika in Hungary: Paprika was introduced to Hungary in the 16th century, likely through the Ottoman Turks, who brought chili peppers from the Americas. Over time, Hungarian farmers cultivated these peppers in their fertile soil, adapting them to the local climate and transforming them into the iconic spice we know today. Hungary is now one of the largest exporters of paprika in the world.
3. Lángos
If you’re strolling through Hungarian street markets, you’ll undoubtedly come across the popular street food lángos. This is a deep-fried flatbread typically topped with sour cream, grated cheese, and garlic butter, and is a savory delight that’s perfect for snacking. You can also find sweet versions topped with Nutella or powdered sugar. Unlike traditional pizza, lángos is fried, not baked, giving it a unique crispy texture. Tourists often refer to lángos as Hungarian pizza due to its round shape and customizable toppings.
4. Pörkölt (Pork Stew)
Pörkölt is a thick Hungarian stew made with meat (usually pork or beef), onions, and paprika. It’s often served with nokedli, similar to spaetzle. Tourists sometimes confuse it with goulash, but pörkölt is much thicker and richer, with less liquid. If you’re looking for a filling meal, this dish is a great choice.
5. Pálinka (Fruit Brandy)
No trip to Hungary is complete without trying Pálinka, the country’s most famous and traditional spirit. This potent fruit brandy has been a part of Hungarian culture for centuries, enjoyed at celebrations, family gatherings, and even as a remedy for various ailments (locals often joke that pálinka can cure anything). Its name is protected by EU law, meaning that only fruit brandies made in Hungary can officially be called pálinka.
Pálinka is typically served in small shot glasses, either before a meal as an aperitif to stimulate the appetite or after a meal to aid digestion. Locals also use it to toast special occasions, often accompanied by the phrase “Egészségedre!” (Cheers!).
Common fruits used to make pálinka include:
- Apricot (Barackpálinka)
- Plum (Szilvapálinka)
- Pear (Körtepálinka)
- Cherry (Cseresznyepálinka)
- Apple (Almapálinka)
6. Töltött Káposzta (Stuffed Cabbage)
This is one of Hungary’s most beloved comfort foods, especially during the holidays. Large cabbage leaves are stuffed with a mixture of ground pork, rice, and spices, then simmered in a tomato and sauerkraut-based sauce. If you’re trying to understand Hungarian comfort food, this dish is the perfect starting point.
You might also find another dish called Töltött Paprika, which are bell peppers stuffed with a similar mixture of ground meat and rice, simmered in paprika-infused tomato sauce.
7. Kürtőskalács (Chimney Cake)
This sweet pastry is a favorite at Hungarian fairs and Christmas markets. Chimney cake is made by wrapping dough around a spit, baking it over an open flame, and coating it with sugar, cinnamon, or nuts. It’s crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside—a must-try when exploring Hungarian street food.
8. Palacsinta (Hungarian Crêpes)
Hungarian pancakes (palacsinta) are thinner than American pancakes and come in both sweet and savory varieties. They’re perfect for anyone searching for “Hungarian crepes.” Some of the most popular varieties include:
Hortobágyi Palacsinta: These savory pancakes are filled with ground meat and onions, flavored with paprika, and topped with a creamy sauce.
Gundel Palacsinta: a luxurious Hungarian dessert crêpe filled with a rich walnut cream, rum-soaked raisins, and topped with a decadent dark chocolate sauce. It’s one of Hungary’s most famous and beloved desserts, often featured in fine dining restaurants across the country.
Other Palacsinta Variations: You can find many other variations, and popular sweet fillings include jam, Nutella, or sweet cottage cheese.
9. Lecsó
This Hungarian vegetable stew is made from tomatoes, peppers, onions, and, of course, paprika. Often served as a side dish or a light meal, it’s similar to ratatouille but with a distinctly Hungarian twist. Visitors often ask, “Is lecsó vegetarian?” The base is, but many Hungarians add sausage or eggs for extra flavor.
10. Hungarian Beer
When visiting a new destination, I like to immerse myself in the local culture, which often means sampling a variety of regional alcoholic beverages—especially beer.
In Hungary, the most popular beer is Dreher, a well-known and widely consumed brand. Based in Budapest, Dreher Brewery has been producing beer since the mid-19th century and is one of the largest breweries in the country. You’ll find Dreher served in most bars and restaurants nationwide. The three most popular varieties are:
- Dreher Classic (Lager): A pale lager with a crisp, malty flavor and moderate bitterness, often enjoyed with Hungarian meals.
- Dreher Bak: A dark beer with a rich, caramel-like taste and higher alcohol content.
- Dreher Pale Ale: A hoppy version catering to craft beer enthusiasts.
In addition to Dreher, other popular Hungarian beers include Soproni, Borsodi, and Arany Ászok. Hungary’s craft beer scene has also grown significantly in recent years, offering great options for beer lovers. If you’re in Budapest, a short drive east will take you to a cluster of breweries like Mad Scientist, Hop Top, and Horizont, with MONYO Brewing Co. also being a favorite nearby.
11. Halászlé (Fisherman’s Soup)
A vibrant, spicy fish soup made with freshwater fish like carp or catfish. This dish gets its deep red color and intense flavor from generous amounts of paprika and a combination of fish stock and tomato paste. It’s especially popular along the Danube River and during festive gatherings.
12. Rakott Krumpli (Potato Casserole)
This layered potato casserole features sliced potatoes, sausage, hard-boiled eggs, and sour cream, baked to perfection. It’s a staple in Hungarian homes and a favorite among visitors looking for hearty Hungarian dishes.
13. Dobos Torte (Layered Chocolate Cake)
This iconic Hungarian dessert is a layered sponge cake filled with rich chocolate buttercream and topped with a caramel glaze. Named after its creator, József Dobos, the Dobos Torte is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. Visitors often wonder, “What desserts is Hungary known for?” This cake, along with chimney cake (kürtőskalács), is at the top of the list.
14. Somlói Galuska (Layered Sponge Cake with Chocolate and Cream)
Hungary’s most decadent dessert, Somlói Galuska, consists of layered sponge cake soaked in rum, topped with chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and walnuts. It’s a common question: “What dessert should I try in Hungary?” This one tops the list for its indulgent flavors.
15. Mákos Guba
This dessert, made from sweet bread rolls soaked in milk and topped with poppy seeds, is simple yet delicious. It’s one of Hungary’s lesser-known desserts, but if you’re curious about traditional Hungarian sweets, give this one a try.
16. Túrós Csusza
This traditional Hungarian dish combines pasta, cottage cheese, sour cream, and crispy bacon bits. It’s simple, comforting, and perfect for anyone looking to explore authentic Hungarian home cooking.
