Romanian cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors, aromas, and textures. With its rich history and cultural heritage, it’s no surprise that the country has developed a unique culinary identity that is both hearty and elegant. From savory dishes like sarmale (cabbage rolls) and ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup), to sweet treats like cozonac (sweet braided bread with walnuts or cocoa), there’s something for everyone in Romanian cuisine.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Romania, exploring 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the country’s best dishes. From classic comfort foods to innovative twists and modern interpretations, these recipes will transport your taste buds to the heart of Eastern Europe. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or simply looking for new inspiration in the kitchen, this article is sure to delight.
**Stay tuned for the next installment of our Romanian recipe series!**
Sarmale (Cabbage Rolls)
A classic Romanian dish, Sarmale is a hearty and flavorful meal made by filling cabbage leaves with a mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices. This recipe yields a delicious and tender result.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage
– 500g ground pork and beef mix
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Prepare the cabbage leaves by blanching them in boiling water for 30 seconds. Remove from water and let cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat mixture, chopped onion, minced garlic, cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a surface and place about 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the stem end of the leaf over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the leaf to form a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. Heat a couple of tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Fry the sarmale until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mămăligă cu Brânză și Smântână (Polenta with Cheese and Sour Cream)
A classic Romanian dish that combines the comfort of creamy polenta with the tanginess of sour cream and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup grated cheese (such as Cheddar or Edam)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Gradually whisk in the polenta and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted.
4. Add the grated cheese and mix well.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream and salt.
6. Serve the polenta with the sour cream on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ciorbă de Burtă (Tripe Soup)
This hearty and flavorful soup is a staple of Romanian cuisine, made with tender tripe, vegetables, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef tripe, cleaned and cut into small pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine tripe, onions, garlic, carrots, and celery.
2. Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Add diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes or until tripe is tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Mititei (Grilled Minced Meat Rolls)
Experience the traditional Albanian flavors with these flavorful and easy-to-make Mititei, a staple dish from the Balkans. These grilled meat rolls are perfect for a quick snack or as part of a larger meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound minced beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 4-6 flatbread leaves (such as Albanian or Turkish-style bread)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine minced beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the meat mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired roll size.
4. Place each portion onto a flatbread leaf, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Fold the bread over the meat, forming a tight roll. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Brush the tops of the rolls with water and place on grill.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until lightly charred and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Papanași (Romanian Doughnuts with Sour Cream and Jam)
Papanași are a beloved Romanian treat, typically enjoyed during special occasions or as a sweet pick-me-up any time of the year. These tender doughnuts are drizzled with sour cream and topped with a dollop of fruit jam for a delightful flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sour cream and jam for topping (your choice of flavors)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm water, and yeast. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
2. Add sugar, melted butter, and mix until smooth.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until elastic.
4. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to medium-high heat (375°F).
6. Punch down the dough and cut into small balls. Fry doughnuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil and let cool slightly.
8. Top with sour cream and your favorite jam.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including rising time)
Salată de Boeuf (Romanian Beef Salad)
A hearty and flavorful salad that combines the rich taste of beef with the freshness of vegetables, perfect for a satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye), cooked to medium-rare
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 large bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of sour cream
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the beef strips to medium-rare and let them cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced onions, chopped bell peppers, and minced garlic.
3. Add the cooled beef to the bowl and stir gently to combine.
4. Mix in the sour cream and Dijon mustard until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or dill.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including cooking time for beef)
Tochitură Moldovenească (Moldovan Stew with Polenta and Cheese)
This hearty stew from Moldova is a comforting blend of tender beef, rich vegetables, and creamy polenta. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef brisket or shank
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 250ml beef broth
– 250ml water
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 200g polenta cornmeal
– 500ml milk
– 25g butter
– 100g grated Teleme or similar cheese
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a large pot over medium heat. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. Add onions, garlic, carrot, and celery to pot; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add beef broth, water, tomato paste, salt, and pepper to pot. Stir well.
4. Return browned beef to pot and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Cook polenta according to package instructions. Whisk in milk and butter.
6. Serve stew over polenta, topped with grated cheese.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Piftie (Romanian Aspic)
A traditional Romanian dish, Piftie is a savory gelatinous aspic made with meat, vegetables, and spices. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef bones
– 1 pound pork, cut into small pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 envelope unflavored gelatin
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, combine beef bones, pork, carrots, celery, garlic, onion, beef broth, tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Sprinkle gelatin over the top and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
6. Pour mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish or individual molds.
7. Refrigerate until chilled and set, about 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour + chilling time
Varză à la Cluj (Transylvanian Cabbage Dish with Meat)
A traditional Romanian recipe from the heart of Transylvania, this flavorful cabbage dish is a staple of local cuisine. Varză à la Cluj is a comforting and nutritious meal that combines tender beef, crispy bacon, and caramelized onions in a rich, savory cabbage broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 500g beef, cut into small pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the shredded cabbage in boiling water until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, cook the beef over medium heat until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same pan, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside with the beef.
4. Add chopped onions to the pan and cook until caramelized.
5. Add the cooked cabbage, beef, and bacon to the pan. Stir in garlic and season with salt, black pepper, and caraway seeds (if using).
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Plăcintă cu Brânză (Cheese-Filled Pastry)
A classic Romanian treat, Plăcintă cu Brânză is a flaky pastry filled with melted cheese and baked to perfection. This recipe brings the flavors of Eastern Europe straight to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup grated Romanian brânză (or similar white cheese)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, softened butter, and warm water. Mix until dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Spread half of the grated cheese over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Fold the dough over the cheese, forming a triangle or rectangle shape.
7. Brush the pastry with beaten egg and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ardei Umpluți (Stuffed Bell Peppers)
A classic Romanian dish, Stuffed Bell Peppers is a flavorful and nutritious meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground meat over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir until combined.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, filling them as full as possible.
6. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cozonac (Sweet Braided Bread with Walnuts or Cocoa)
A traditional Romanian bread, Cozonac is a sweet and nutty treat perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert. This recipe offers two variations: one with walnuts and the other with cocoa powder.
Ingredients:
For both versions:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
For the walnut version:
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
For the cocoa version:
– 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Add warm milk, beaten eggs, and melted butter. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes elastic.
4. Divide the dough into three equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope.
5. Braid the ropes together, tucking the ends under the loaf. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. For the walnut version, sprinkle chopped walnuts over the braid and dot with butter. For the cocoa version, drizzle with melted chocolate or sprinkle with cocoa powder.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rasol (Romanian Boiled Meat with Vegetables)
Rasol Recipe (Romanian Boiled Meat with Vegetables)
Summary: Rasol is a hearty and flavorful Romanian dish made by boiling meat and vegetables in a rich broth. This comforting recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or beef shank, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large cabbage head, shredded
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 4 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the meat, onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and cabbage.
2. Add the paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the beef broth, making sure that all the ingredients are covered.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Salată de Vinete (Eggplant Salad)
This Romanian-inspired eggplant salad is a refreshing and flavorful vegetarian delight, perfect for warm weather. The combination of roasted eggplant, tangy yogurt sauce, and crunchy fresh herbs makes it a great side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise, place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and drizzle with olive oil. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and lightly charred.
2. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Once the eggplants are cool enough to handle, peel off the skin and chop into small pieces. Add to the yogurt mixture and stir to combine.
4. Stir in chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (roasting time)
Pârjoale Moldovenești (Moldovan Meatballs)
Savor the rich flavors of Moldova with these hearty meatballs, a staple of traditional Moldovan cuisine. These pârjoale are made with a combination of ground pork and beef, spices, and a hint of paprika.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, ground beef, chopped onion, egg, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Gradually add breadcrumbs and milk, mixing until the mixture forms a thick paste.
4. Use wet hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
5. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve: Enjoy your pârjoale Moldovenești with mashed potatoes, sauerkraut, and a side of rye bread for a traditional Moldovan meal.
Zacuscă (Vegetable Spread)
A traditional Romanian vegetable spread that’s perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, finely chopped
– 1 large bell pepper, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped eggplant, bell pepper, garlic, and onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl. If using feta cheese, sprinkle it on top.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Limbă cu Măsline (Beef Tongue with Olives)
This hearty Romanian dish is a staple of traditional cuisine, showcasing the rich flavors of slow-cooked beef tongue and briny olives. Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 beef tongue, cleaned and trimmed
– 2 medium-sized onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine beef tongue, onions, garlic, olives, chicken broth, tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
4. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the tongue is tender.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Slice the beef tongue into thin strips and serve with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Gulaș de Casă (Romanian Goulash)
This hearty goulash is a staple of Romanian cuisine, made with tender beef, rich broth, and served with crusty bread. It’s the perfect comfort food for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Add the broth, water, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
5. Serve hot with crusty bread and chopped parsley (if using).
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Chiftele de Pește (Fish Patties)
A traditional Romanian dish, Chiftele de Pește is a delicious and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for a quick lunch or snack. With a combination of fish, breadcrumbs, and spices, these patties are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Ingredients:
– 500g cod fillets, flaked
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the flaked fish, flour, panko breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper until just combined.
2. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired patty size.
3. Shape each portion into a flat patty.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Fry the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pui la Cărbune (Grilled Chicken with Garlic Sauce)
This classic Romanian recipe is a staple of any backyard barbecue or family gathering. With its rich, garlicky flavor and tender grilled chicken, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, olive oil, white wine vinegar, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
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