For those who love cooking and exploring new flavors, there’s nothing quite like delving into the rich culinary traditions of Europe. From hearty stews to comforting breads, these classic dishes have been passed down through generations, offering a glimpse into the cultural heritage of each country. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey across the continent, highlighting 20 timeless old world recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
From the rich flavors of French cuisine to the comforting warmth of German comfort food, each recipe has its own unique story and history. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these dishes offer a chance to connect with the past and create memories that will last for years to come.
Beef Bourguignon
This classic Beef Bourguignon recipe is a rich and flavorful stew originating from France, perfect for a cold winter’s night. With tender beef, mushrooms, onions, and a hint of red wine, this dish is sure to warm your heart and belly.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (Burgundy or Merlot)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaf, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Coq au Vin
This iconic recipe combines chicken, mushrooms, onions, and bacon in a rich red wine sauce, resulting in tender and flavorful dish perfect for special occasions. With minimal prep time and easy cooking steps, you’ll be enjoying this classic French dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cups of mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 cup of red wine (Burgundy or Merlot work well)
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
3. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside.
4. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
6. Add the chicken, red wine, chicken broth, tomato paste, garlic, and cooked bacon. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Cook for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German Sauerbraten
Sauerbraten is a traditional German pot roast dish that’s been a staple of the country’s cuisine for centuries. This recipe yields a tender and flavorful roast with a tangy sauce, perfect for serving with potatoes, noodles, or rye bread.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs beef pot roast (rump or round)
– 1 cup vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp mustard powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine vinegar, water, brown sugar, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Add the beef pot roast and marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
3. Remove the roast from the marinade and place it in a Dutch oven with the sliced onion, carrots, and celery.
4. Roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until tender.
5. Serve hot with the tangy sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Polish Pierogi
Pierogi are traditional Polish dumplings that can be filled with a variety of sweet and savory ingredients. This recipe provides a classic potato and cheese filling, wrapped in a delicate dough and cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Filling:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup farmer’s cheese or ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm water, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into smaller pieces.
4. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
5. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, and press edges together to seal.
7. Fry pierogi in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
8. Serve warm with melted butter and chopped fresh dill.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hungarian Goulash
This hearty Hungarian stew is a comforting blend of tender beef, aromatic spices, and rich paprika flavors. Serve with crusty bread or over egg noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef shin or chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp paprika
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onions, garlic, carrot, and bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Stir in paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours or until beef is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
French Onion Soup
Savor the rich flavors of caramelized onions and melted cheese in this classic French onion soup recipe. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as an appetizer, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 4 slices of baguette, toasted
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Add beef broth to the saucepan and bring to a simmer.
4. Preheat broiler.
5. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls and top each with toasted baguette slice and grated Gruyère cheese.
6. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 2-3 minutes).
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Swedish Meatballs
Experience the authentic flavors of Sweden with this classic meatball recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner or party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite Swedish-inspired sides, such as lingonberry jam and boiled potatoes.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Italian Osso Buco
Osso buco, a traditional Italian braised veal shank dish, is a hearty and flavorful comfort food perfect for special occasions or cozy nights at home. This recipe yields tender and fall-off-the-bone meat with rich, saucy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal shanks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup dry white wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and black pepper
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped (optional)
– 2 celery stalks, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season veal shanks with salt and black pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear veal shanks until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add chopped onion. Cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Add garlic, white wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
6. Return veal shanks to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender and falls apart easily.
8. Serve with carrots and celery, if using.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spanish Paella
Experience the flavors of Spain with this classic dish, a staple at any fiesta or gathering. This recipe combines savory rice, succulent seafood and chicken, and rich saffron for a truly authentic taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Spanish rice (Calasparra or Bomba)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams), cleaned and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add chicken and seafood; cook until pink, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in garlic, saffron mixture, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek Moussaka
Moussaka is a beloved Greek dish that combines layers of tender eggplant, rich ground beef, and creamy bechamel sauce. This recipe yields a flavorful and satisfying main course perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup bechamel sauce (see below)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Grill or bake until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Add onion, garlic, tomato puree, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10 minutes.
4. Assemble the moussaka by layering cooked eggplant, meat sauce, and bechamel sauce in a baking dish.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese and bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Bechamel Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– Salt to taste
Melt butter, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk, whisking until smooth. Season with salt.
Russian Borscht
This classic Russian recipe is a staple of many Eastern European cuisines, and for good reason – its rich, slightly sweet flavor and vibrant color make it a comforting and satisfying meal. With its mix of beets, vegetables, and beans, this borscht is a true delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets, peeled and grated
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium carrot, grated
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and carrot in a little water until tender.
2. Add the grated beets, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, vegetable broth, and tomato paste. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Belgian Waffles
Savor the crispy edges and fluffy centers of these traditional Belgian waffles, perfect for a weekend brunch or breakfast treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Flavorings of your choice (e.g., vanilla extract, chocolate chips)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs and milk until well combined. Add melted butter and flavorings (if using).
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined (batter should still be slightly lumpy).
5. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the waffle iron and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until edges are crispy and centers are cooked through.
6. Repeat with remaining batter.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes to cook all waffles (depending on your iron’s capacity).
Austrian Sachertorte
The classic Austrian Sachertorte is a rich chocolate cake filled with apricot jam and topped with a smooth chocolate glaze. This iconic dessert has been delighting palates for over 200 years.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), broken into small pieces
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup apricot jam
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Melt chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth. Let cool slightly.
4. Beat butter and eggs together until light and fluffy. Add melted chocolate, vanilla extract, and apricot jam; mix until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in pans before glazing.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Portuguese Bacalhau
Bacalhau à Brás is a traditional Portuguese dish that combines salted cod, potatoes, onions, and scrambled eggs. This hearty and flavorful recipe is a staple in many Portuguese households.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried and salted cod (bacalhau)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Soak the cod in water for at least 24 hours, changing the water several times.
2. Drain and flake the cod into small pieces.
3. Boil the potatoes until tender, then drain and chop.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened.
5. Add the flaked cod to the skillet and stir well.
6. Create 4 wells in the cod mixture and crack an egg into each well.
7. Cook until the eggs are scrambled, then season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve the Bacalhau à Brás hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
British Shepherd’s Pie
A comforting, hearty dish that’s a staple of British cuisine, Shepherd’s Pie is a simple and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– Butter or oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a pan over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme to the pan. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has thickened slightly.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with sliced potatoes, overlapping them slightly.
7. Dot the top of the potatoes with butter or oil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Irish Soda Bread
This classic Irish recipe yields a deliciously soft and crusty bread that’s perfect for sopping up soups or serving with butter and jam. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have this tasty treat on your table in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the softened butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Make a well in the center of the dough and pour in the buttermilk. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead for 1-2 minutes, until it comes together.
6. Shape into a round or oblong loaf and place on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Scottish Haggis
This traditional Scottish dish is a savory mixture of sheep’s pluck (heart, liver, and lungs), oatmeal, onions, and spices, traditionally encased in a sheep’s stomach and simmered for hours. Here’s a simplified recipe to make haggis at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sheep’s pluck (or substitute with beef or pork offal)
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 cup beef or pork broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pan, cook the sheep’s pluck over medium heat until browned.
3. Add chopped onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook until onions are translucent.
4. Stir in rolled oats and broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours, or until the haggis is hot and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Swiss Fondue
Experience the rich tradition of Swiss fondue with this classic recipe that brings together the perfect blend of cheese, wine, and bread for a cozy gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grated Emmental or Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Chardonnay or Riesling)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine grated cheese, wine, lemon juice, garlic, and paprika.
2. Place the saucepan over low heat and stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Increase heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fondue reaches the desired temperature (around 105°F to 115°F).
4. Transfer the fondue to a fondue pot or a small ceramic bowl over a candle flame to keep warm.
5. Serve with an assortment of breads, fruits, and meats for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Dutch Stroopwafels
Stroopwafels are a classic Dutch treat that combines the simplicity of a waffle with the richness of caramel-like filling. These delicate cookies are a perfect snack or dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– Stroop (caramel-like filling) – store-bought or homemade
Instructions:
1. Preheat the waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. Add melted butter, sugar, and egg to the bowl. Whisk until smooth.
4. Pour about 1 tablespoon of batter onto the center of the waffle iron.
5. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the edges are crispy and the center is cooked through.
6. Repeat with remaining batter, greasing the waffle iron with cooking spray as needed.
7. Sandwich a small amount of stroop between two cooled wafels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on waffle iron speed)
Czech Goulash
Savor the rich flavors of this hearty Czech classic, a comforting beef stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe serves 4-6 people and is quick to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck or shank, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add onions, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Return the browned beef to the pot; simmer for an additional 30 minutes or until the meat is tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors and traditions of Europe’s most beloved dishes with these 20 authentic recipes. From hearty stews like Beef Bourguignon and Hungarian Goulash, to comforting breads like Irish Soda Bread and Scottish Haggis, this collection takes you on a culinary journey across the continent. Explore classic comfort foods like French Onion Soup and Italian Osso Buco, as well as sweet treats like Belgian Waffles and Austrian Sachertorte. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for inspiration, these timeless recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and transport you to a bygone era.