25 Jun 2016

It’s no secret most people go home from Europe wearing a few extra kilos. So, why not embrace it? Accept the fact that this is part of the experience, that life is for the living and that you regret the things you don’t do, and then get on with trying all of these delicious and sometimes questionable local treats from your favourite European cities.

1. Unpronounceable treats in Prague

In Prague, the meals definitely aren’t known for their healthiness, but rather their heartiness. Most consist mainly of meat and gravy. The most popular Czech meal is houskový knedlík – good luck pronouncing it at a restaurant. Delicious spongy bread dumplings and roasted pork loin with loads of gravy, of course.

2. Frogs legs in France

You might not admit it but you’ve always wanted to try frog legs, right? And what better place than the city of lights? Maybe down a few glasses of Parisian champagne first so your courage doesn’t croak. And definitely don’t shake salt on those bad boys, or the muscles will start twitching – nobody enjoys watching the food on their plate move. And then exclaim ‘Pourquoi non?’ (Why not?) and dig in.

3. Goulash in Budapest

Hungry in Budapest? Try some goulash, a stew made of meat, vegetables, paprika, and other seasoning. This feast dates back to medieval times when Hungarian shepherds would cook and flavour meat, dry it in the sun, and store it in bags made from sheep stomachs. They’d add some water and dinner was ready! There are heaps of different varieties and recipes so pick your favourite. Don’t worry, it’s no longer stored in sheep stomachs.

4. Pretzels in Germany

Don’t forget to get your hands on some German pretzels in Munich. Sit in the beer halls with a stein in one hand and pretzel in the other. The salt cuts through the beer, making it the perfect combination. If you’re wanting a meal, though, go for the pork knuckle. The crackling, the succulent pork within, the salty goodness. Pig out.

5. Fish Stew in Ibiza

You may be tempted to skip eating in Ibiza so that you have more time to party, but you’ll definitely want to try some Bullet de Peix. Plus, you need a hearty meal to line your stomach for a night of non-stop fun. This chow is a thick stew made from saffron-flecked fish and potato – delicious.

6. Tapas in Barcelona

If you’re blessed enough to be hanging out in Barcelona, drinks and tapas are a must. Tapas are small tasters of typical Spanish foods. Try some pan con tomate, patatas bravas, or croquetas. Your tapas options are endless. This is way more social than going out for dinner, as you’re not occupied with eating an entire meal. The Spanish are famous for their late dinners too, so it’s common to go out for tapas and some cheeky drinks after work.

7. Paella in Valencia

No trip to Valencia would be complete without trying the world-famous paella. There are heaps of different varieties but the typical Valencian dish includes rice, beans, chicken, rabbit seafood and seasoning. One local got a mention in the Guinness Book of World Records for cooking the largest paella in the world, feeding 110,000 people.

8. Pintxos in San Sebastian

Spend your days in San Sebastian surfing and Basque-ing in the sun, and spend your nights sipping on cider and eating pintxos. These small appetizers usually involve cod, stuffed peppers, and croquettes being stuck on top of a piece of bread with a toothpick, but can range to gourmet mini burgers, steak with foie and truffle risotto. There are tonnes of different varieties. Get a group of friends together and wander from one Basque tavern to the next, trying as many as your belly will fit.

9. Leche Frita in Pamplona

In Pamplona, try some delicious Leche Frita, or in English, fried milk. Made by cooking flour with milk and sugar, thickening it into a dough and then, obviously, frying it. Sprinkle some cinnamon on top and you’ve got some delicious dessert/snack/indulgence. Bite through the crunchy outer layer and then the creamy middle will burst into your mouth. This delectable dessert will have you going back for seconds… and maybe thirds.

10. Stuffed peppers in Haro

In Haro you’ll be so busy drinking the wine, you might forget to grab a bite to eat. But we definitely recommend you try the pimientos riojanos, or stuffed piquillo peppers. Get them filled with lamb, dipped in batter and fried, or as part of a stew. Pair it with a glass of vino rojo (red wine) and you’ll be falling in love with this little town.