Romania offers a diverse culinary landscape heavily influenced by Germany, Turkey, and its Balkan neighbors. The cuisine focuses on savory herbs, rich meats, and incredibly decadent desserts that look as good as they taste.
Presentation plays a huge role here because local chefs believe visuals matter just as much as flavor. I have gathered 20 traditional Romanian foods to help you explore these gorgeous and delicious dishes.
1. White Cabbage Salad
You might think this is just another coleslaw recipe but the texture is quite different. The ingredient list is incredibly simple since it only calls for cabbage, oil, vinegar, and a few spices like pepper and parsley.
It has a soft consistency that tastes slightly sweet on the tongue. I love pairing this delight with hearty main courses for a refreshing crunch.
2. Romanian Meatball Soup
The Bossy Kitchen calls this specific dish the glory of soups and the pride of every Romanian cook. You will need about an hour and a half to pull this together but the result is completely worth the effort.
The broth features a robust tomato and herb flavor profile with just a touch of spice. Thick meatballs make this meal very filling during the colder winter months.
3. Mamaliga
This cornmeal porridge serves as the national dish of the country. It resembles polenta but differs because you allow it to harden into a solid circle rather than eating it soft.
You only need cornmeal and butter along with water and seasonings to create this masterpiece. The entire process takes just 25 minutes so it is much faster than other traditional options.
4. Zacusca (Eggplant and Red Pepper Dip)
Think of this dip as a Romanian version of salsa that highlights eggplant and red bell peppers. You can stick to the mild base ingredients like white onions and bay leaves or add jalapenos for extra heat.
I recommend using fresh tomatoes instead of sauce to achieve a chunkier and heartier texture. It tastes fantastic spread over bagels or scooped up with crisp pita chips.
5. Romanian Cheese Donuts
These deep fried treats feature cottage cheese directly in the batter for a rich texture. You traditionally top them with sweet blueberry jam and smetana which is a mix of sour cream and heavy whipping cream.
Every single bite melts on your tongue and delights the taste buds. You should probably double the batch because eating just one is impossible.
6. Romanian Cabbage Rolls (Sarmale)
These complex rolls are packed with sour cabbage, ground pork, bacon, and rice. They require a few hours to prepare but the golden brown result is visually stunning.
The tomato juice gives them a shiny appearance while fresh parsley adds a pop of color. I like to stack them high and serve them with a generous dollop of sour cream on top.
7. Romanian Potato Moussaka
You might recognize this dish from Greek restaurants but the Romanian version is slightly different. Locals prefer using pork or beef as the protein base rather than the traditional lamb found in Greece.
Both versions are incredibly delicious thanks to the layers of potatoes and herbs. It is hard to beat a combination of savory meat and veggies baked to perfection.
8. Mushroom and Mayo Salad
Locals typically serve this cold salad on New Year’s Eve but it tastes great year round. You do not need to cook anything since it only requires chopping and mixing ingredients like mushrooms and garlic.
The preparation takes just ten minutes but you must chill it for a few hours before serving. I enjoy eating it with crackers or slices of toasted baguette.
9. Romanian Sausage Stew
This dish reminds me of a steak and potatoes dinner but uses polenta as the starch. It is actually a breakfast meal that features savory sausage and fried eggs.
If you want a hearty start to your morning that keeps you full for hours then this is the perfect choice. The rich flavors make it a savory comfort food staple.
10. Mucenici
Romanians eat this special dish once a year on March 9th to celebrate the Forty Martyrs of Sebaste. The recipe is a unique cross between soup and pasta with a nutty and slightly sweet flavor profile.
It is naturally vegan friendly so everyone can enjoy it for dinner or dessert. You get to shape the pasta yourself which makes it a fun activity for kids.
11. Feta Fry Bread
This thin bread features a crispy exterior that gives way to a soft and gooey center. You make the dough from scratch using yeast and fill it with plenty of pure feta cheese.
It reminds me of a cheese quesadilla or a piece of savory fried dough. The contrast between the crunchy crust and the melted filling is divine.
12. Cheese Pie
Imagine flaky puff pastry stuffed with a savory blend of feta and ricotta cheeses. You only need four ingredients to assemble this heavenly pie in your own kitchen.
It takes a little over an hour to bake but the cheesy results are worth the wait. I suggest adding some fresh dill to give the flavor an extra kick.
13. Romanian Potato Salad
This dish appears on dining tables so frequently that it is practically a second national dish. The flavor profile leans toward the sour side thanks to vinegar and Dijon mustard.
Earthy ingredients like potatoes and black olives provide a solid base for the zesty gherkins. It offers a unique twist compared to the creamy salads you might be used to.
14. Romanian Country Bread
This loaf features a firm outer crust that protects a remarkably airy and moist interior. The flavor mimics sourdough bread and pairs perfectly with hot soups.
Most of the preparation time involves letting the dough rise so you only need about 20 minutes for actual work. It is the ideal vessel for soaking up savory broths and sauces.
15. Romanian Meatballs (Chiftele)
Finding a truly exceptional meatball can be difficult but these chiftele are the real deal. They are thick and juicy with a strong garlic and herb presence.
You can eat them all by themselves or incorporate them into other dishes. I find it difficult to stop eating them once I start because they are just that good.
16. Cozonac
This bread looks incredibly elegant and intricate but is surprisingly simple to bake at home. You likely already have the necessary pantry staples to create the sweet citrus dough.
A rich nutty swirl runs through the center to add visual appeal and flavor. It makes a lovely gift for friends or a centerpiece for a fancy celebration.
17. Romanian Pork and Potato Stew
This stew is perfect for anyone who enjoys a classic beef stew but wants to try something different. The recipe uses pork as the main protein alongside onions and potatoes.
You should season it generously with herbs for a comforting meal. Locals often serve this hearty dish with country bread or a side of mamaliga.
18. Tripe Soup
This creamy soup offers rich and bold flavors that are just a little bit spicy. It requires some effort to prepare but the hearty result is satisfying.
Bright green parsley contrasts beautifully against the warm yellow color of the broth. You can freeze leftovers for up to four months to enjoy later.
19. Romanian Eggplant Salad/Dip
This dip is an excellent choice if you enjoy smoky flavors paired with garlic and herbs. It is made primarily from vegetables so it is naturally nutritious and vegan friendly.
The texture works well with everything from pita bread to crunchy chips. I love that it is gluten free and packed with savory goodness.
20. Romanian Stuffed Peppers
These peppers taste similar to the stuffed versions you might find at Italian or Mexican restaurants. You fill them with a savory mix of meat and rice along with plenty of herbs.
A tomato based sauce coats the exterior to add complex acidity to the dish. They take just under two hours to make and are incredibly filling.