Welcome to our blog, where we dive into the delicious world of Romanian cuisine! Today, we will be exploring the best Romanian food recipes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Romania is a country rich in culinary traditions, with a diverse range of flavors and influences from neighboring countries.
From hearty stews to mouthwatering desserts, Romanian cuisine offers a delightful blend of simplicity and sophistication. So, grab a seat at our virtual table as we take you on a culinary journey through the best Romanian food recipes. Get ready to savor the flavors and explore the unique dishes that make Romanian cuisine truly unforgettable.
1. Traditional Romanian Sour Soup
The Traditional Romanian Sour Soup is a classic dish that showcases the flavors of Romania. Made with pork and a variety of vegetables, this soup is hearty and satisfying.
The broth is tangy and refreshing, thanks to the addition of sour cream and lemon juice or vinegar. It's a traditional recipe that is loved by many in Romania and is a great way to experience the flavors of Romanian cuisine.
2. Romanian Mamaliga Baked
Romanian Mamaliga Baked is a traditional Romanian dish that serves as a substitute for bread. Made with coarse cornmeal, eggs, and cheese, it resembles a cornbread but with a delightful twist. This dish is often served with a dollop of sour cream on top, adding a creamy and tangy element.
It pairs perfectly with soups and stews, making it a versatile and comforting side dish. The addition of eggs and cheese elevates this peasant food to a delicacy, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Romania.
3. Romanian Meatball Soup
Romanian Meatball Soup, also known as Ciorba de Perisoare, is a classic Romanian dish that is full of authentic flavor. This soup features homemade meatballs made with ground pork (or any ground meat of choice), dill, parsley, rice, and breadcrumbs. The meatballs are cooked in a flavorful broth made with onions, carrots, celery, tomato paste, chicken broth, and lemon juice.
The soup has a delightful sour taste, thanks to the addition of lemon juice. It is a comforting and hearty soup that can be enjoyed as a main course. The recipe is easy to make and can be prepared in just one hour. Leftovers can be frozen and enjoyed later. Overall, Romanian Meatball Soup is a delicious and satisfying dish that captures the essence of Romanian cuisine.
4. Romanian Meatballs (Chiftele)
Romanian Meatballs, also known as Chiftele, are a popular and flavorful dish in Romania. Made with ground pork, shredded potatoes, and fresh herbs, these meatballs are juicy and packed with delicious flavors. They can be fried or baked, and the use of shredded potatoes keeps them soft and moist.
The addition of dill adds a distinct and delightful taste. Romanian Meatballs are easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making them a convenient option for meal planning. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or served as appetizers, these meatballs are a must-try for anyone looking to experience authentic Romanian cuisine.
5. Mititei
Mititei, also known as Mici, are a popular Romanian street food. These little sausages are made with a mixture of ground beef, pork, and lamb, seasoned with thyme, salt, pepper, allspice, sweet paprika, and garlic.
The secret ingredient, baking soda, adds fluffiness and aids digestion. Served with mustard, bread, and a cold beer, Mititei are juicy, plump, and incredibly delicious. A must-try for anyone looking to experience authentic Romanian cuisine.
6. Poale in Brau (Branzoaice)
Poale in Brau (Branzoaice) is a traditional Romanian sweet cheese pastry that is a beloved emblem of the Moldovan region and its cuisine. These delicious pastries are typically made with salty sheep cheese and can be enjoyed as a snack or as a dessert with a sweet filling of Farmer's cheese, sugar, and raisins.
The recipe is versatile, allowing for variations in cheese choices, and is best served with a dollop of sour cream and a glass of dry white wine. Whether enjoyed salty or sweet, Poale in Brau is a delightful treat that showcases the unique flavors of Romanian cuisine.
7. Romanian Meatballs
Romanian Meatballs, also known as chiftele or parjoale, are a delicious and flavorful dish that showcases the traditional flavors of Romania. These meatballs are made with a mixture of pork and beef, and are seasoned with garlic, onions, and fresh dill. The unique shape of these meatballs, large and flat, allows for even cooking and quicker preparation.
They are typically served with mashed potatoes and pickled vegetables, creating a satisfying and comforting meal. Leftovers can be enjoyed cold on bread or transformed into meatballs in tomato sauce. Overall, Romanian Meatballs are a must-try dish for anyone looking to experience the rich flavors of Romanian cuisine.
8. Papanasi
Papanasi are traditional Romanian fried doughnuts made with cottage cheese. They are typically served warm and topped with smetana (similar to crème fraiche) and a runny, sweet jam, often blueberry.
The doughnuts have a soft and slightly sticky texture, and the cottage cheese adds a mild and fresh taste. Papanasi are a beloved dessert in Romania and are best enjoyed immediately after frying.
9. Placinte Cu Varza
Placinte Cu Varza is a traditional Romanian dish consisting of small, yeasty cakes filled with cabbage and dill. Served with smetana or sour cream, these savory pies are a popular choice for a main dish.
The recipe has a long history in Romania and is often enjoyed during fasting periods. Overall, Placinte Cu Varza is a delicious and satisfying dish that showcases the flavors of Romanian cuisine.
10. Mamaliga
Mamaliga is a beloved Romanian dish that embodies the essence of resourcefulness and wholesome home cooking. Made with just three main ingredients – water, cornmeal, and salt – this simple yet delicious recipe is a staple in Romanian and Moldovan cuisine.
Served with a variety of toppings such as sheep's cheese, farmer's cheese, and sour cream, Mamaliga is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed with your hands. Its striking yellow color and comforting taste make it a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic Romanian culinary experience.
11. Romanian Breakfast
Romanian Breakfast Review:
The traditional Romanian breakfast is a diverse and satisfying meal. It features eggs prepared in various ways, including omelettes with bacon and onions. The cheese, called telemea, is a salty and crumbly sheep's milk cheese. Bread, like the oval-shaped franzela, is a must-have and can be enjoyed with spreads like zacusca or fish roe salad.
The breakfast also includes flavorful meat options like slanina (salted and smoked pork fat) or sunculita taraneasca (fatty meat with the pork's skin on). With a variety of flavors and textures, the Romanian breakfast showcases the country's culinary heritage.
12. Cozonac
Cozonac is a traditional Romanian Easter Bread that is both easy to make and incredibly delicious. This sweet bread is filled with a mixture of raisins, ground walnuts, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar, giving it a rich and indulgent flavor.
The dough is soft and fluffy, with a hint of lemon zest to add a refreshing touch. Once baked, the Cozonac turns golden brown and has a delightful aroma that fills the kitchen. It is perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying as a sweet treat.
13. Romanian Sweet Cheese Pies
Romanian Sweet Cheese Pies, also known as Branzoaice or Poale-n Brau, are a delightful treat in Romanian cuisine. These pies are traditionally made with cottage cheese and raisins, resulting in a delicate and sweet filling. The yeast dough used for the pies is soft and fluffy, providing a perfect contrast to the creamy cheese filling.
The combination of the mild cottage cheese, sweet raisins, and the hint of lemon zest creates a delightful flavor profile. These pies are a popular choice among Romanians and are a must-try for anyone looking to experience the authentic flavors of Romanian cuisine.
14. Romanian Stuffed Peppers
Romanian Stuffed Peppers, also known as Ardei Umpluti, are a delicious and authentic Romanian dish. Sweet yellow Hungarian peppers are stuffed with a flavorful mixture of ground pork, rice, and herbs.
The peppers are then slow-cooked in a simple tomato sauce with sour cream, creating a creamy and savory dish. This recipe is a true taste of the old country and a must-try for anyone looking to experience traditional Romanian cuisine.
15. Biscuit Salami
Biscuit Salami, also known as Salam de biscuiti, is a popular Romanian dessert that brings back childhood memories. This no-bake treat is made with butter biscuits, cocoa, milk, sugar, and butter. Optional rum aroma adds a delightful twist.
The mixture is shaped into a sausage-like roll and refrigerated until firm. When sliced, it reveals a delicious combination of flavors and textures. Biscuit Salami is a beloved dessert that is sure to satisfy both children and adults alike.
16. Moldovan Zeama
Moldovan Zeama is a popular chicken soup in Moldova, known for its comforting and flavorful qualities. Made with a combination of chicken, vegetables, and fresh herbs like parsley and dill, this soup is perfect for cold winter nights.
The addition of homemade thin egg noodles adds a delightful texture to the dish. Overall, Moldovan Zeama is a delicious and satisfying soup that is enjoyed throughout the year in Moldova.
17. Homemade Mici
Homemade Mici, also known as mititei, are small Romanian sausages that are a BBQ staple in Romania. These delicious sausages are typically grilled on high heat, resulting in a juicy and mouthwatering flavor. They are best served on their own with mustard and a cold pint of beer.
While traditionally made with high-fat content, they can also be made with lean pork and beef for a healthier option. Mici can be frozen for up to two months and can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Overall, Homemade Mici are a must-try Romanian dish that will satisfy any meat lover.
18. Romanian Walnut Buttercream Cake
The Romanian Walnut Buttercream Cake is a decadent and luscious dessert that showcases the rich flavors of caramelized walnuts. This festive cake is a true treat, with its buttercream made from egg yolks and milk, and generous use of nuts.
While it may be indulgent with over 500 calories per piece, the taste is worth every calorie. This square-shaped cake is a typical Romanian dessert, perfect for special occasions or as a delightful treat.
19. Romanian Strawberry Foam
Romanian Strawberry Foam is a classic and beloved Romanian dessert made with just three ingredients: strawberries, egg whites, and sugar. This light and refreshing dessert captures the essence of Romanian cooking – simple, economical, and delicious.
The strawberries are finely chopped and combined with whipped egg whites and sugar until the foam has a beautiful color and the berries are crushed. The foam is then served immediately, topped with reserved strawberries for added freshness. This quick and easy dessert is a perfect way to enjoy the sweetness of strawberries during the summer months.
20. Placinte
Placinte is a traditional Romanian dish that consists of round, cheese-filled fried pastries. The recipe does not require yeast, making it quick and easy to prepare. The dough is made with flour, baking soda, baking powder, buttermilk, milk, and oil. The filling can be made with a variety of ingredients such as apples, cabbage, potatoes, ricotta, dill, raisins, or even chocolate.
The cheese filling, made with feta and mozzarella, is a popular choice. Placinte are best enjoyed fresh, but can be reheated in a toaster oven to maintain a crisp crust. Overall, Placinte is a delicious and versatile Romanian dish that is sure to satisfy any craving for cheesy pastries.
