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Top 10 Dishes to Try in Hungary

Explore Hungary's culinary gems from goulash to chimney cake and understand the importance of travel insurance to cover medical and travel-related emergencies during your trip.

  • 02 May 2025
  • 6 min read
  • 1 views

Nestled in central Europe, Hungarian cuisine blends Eastern and Western flavours. While there aren’t too many regional differences, the most popular food in Hungary ranges from simple, wholesome peasant fare to delicate French-style cooking. Meat dominates the traditional menu, and you might be surprised to see salads missing.

Let’s take a look at the top 10 Hungarian dishes.

Why you must try the food in Hungary?

Hungary food is a reflection of the country’s countryside and continental climate. It’s also heavily influenced by Ottoman, Jewish and Austrian cultures. As you taste the most popular food in Hungary, you’ll also get a lesson in Hungarian history. Did you know that pasta recipes travelled to the country with Italian artists and tradesmen? There’s so much you learn when you eat with the locals and share Hungarian famous food. Don’t miss out on these opportunities that would make your holiday truly complete.

Top 10 famous Hungarian dishes

If you want to eat like a Hungarian, try these Budapest famous foods:

  1. Goulash

This meaty stew is usually beef or pork-based and is liberally flavoured with paprika. It’s typically served hot with a side of potatoes or bread.

  1. Chicken Paprikash

Here’s a dish celebrating the red, spicy paprika Hungary is famous for. The dish features tender chicken cooked in a rich, paprika-based gravy and served with egg noodles or dumplings.

  1. Stuffed peppers

This plate of bell peppers stuffed with a mixture of spices, rice and ground meat and simmered in a tomato sauce is a testament to the bold Hungarian flavours.

  1. Túrós Csusza

This simple dish of egg noodles tossed with bacon and cheese curds comforts you with every bite. It’s a local favourite across the country.

  1. Hortobágyi Palacsinta

When you want something light, try this plate of baked pancakes stuffed with ground meat and creamy paprika sauce.

  1. Halászlé

This classic fisherman’s stew usually features the day’s catch in a paprika-based broth. The stew’s red colour is as enticing as its flavour.

  1. Lángos

Lángos is the ideal on-the-go snack. Think of it as deep-fried flatbread with a sweet or savoury topping. Grated cheese and sour cream is one of the most popular topping combinations.

  1. Kolbasz

Of the many different types of Hungarian sausage, this one is probably the most famous. It’s made from pork and usually served as a sandwich topping or with a side of potatoes.

  1. Chimney Cake

Named for its cylindrical shape, this Hungarian dessert is a baked pastry usually topped with cinnamon sugar, chopped walnuts or chocolate chips.

  1. Dobos Torte

This is a classic dessert for special occasions in Hungary. Picture a wedge of thinly sliced sponge cake with layers of chocolate buttercream and hard caramel.

Importance of international travel insurance

With so much to look forward to in Hungary, you wouldn’t want anything to interfere with your itinerary. That’s why ensuring you have adequate single trip travel insurance is important. Travel insurance will cover the costs in case you fall sick and need hospitalisation or medication. Good insurance will also provide coverage in case your flight gets cancelled or the airline loses your luggage. This is the safety net that lets you enjoy a stress-free holiday.

FAQs

  • What is the most famous Hungarian spice?

Hungarian food is traditionally associated with the bold notes of paprika.

  • What are the most famous Hungarian vegetarian foods?

Some of the most popular Hungarian vegetarian foods include Jókai bableves, Lecsó, and Paprikás krumpli.

  • What is a goulash?

Goulash is a classic meat-based Hungarian stew.

  • What Hungarian foods can you take back as souvenirs?

Some Hungarian delicacies you can take back as souvenirs include salami, ground paprika, Kolbász and Túró Rudi.

Conclusion

When you’re travelling to Hungary, famous food like Goulash and fisherman’s stew are must-try dishes. However, please don’t limit yourself to this list; talk to the locals and get their recommendations. You’ll find delicious food on every corner, from street vendors hawking snacks to fine-dining restaurants with multi-course menus. So, enjoy your meal or, as the Hungarians say, “Jó étvágyat”!

 


Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.  

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