European cuisines - Europe is a region almost synonymous with luxury and art. But did you know that the breathtaking aspects of Europe do not stop in its Renaissance art and architecture? Another cultural pride that beams each European country with joy is its rich cuisine and delicatessen.

From the refined elegance of French cuisine to the rustic charm of Italian dishes, European gastronomy offers an array of flavors, techniques, and ingredients that entice and delight the palate.

Read more: What Makes Filipino Cuisine Unique and How to Incorporate it into a Hotel Breakfast Menu

Ancient civilizations like Greece and Rome laid the foundations for modern European cuisine. The Roman Empire provided various ingredients, including meats, spices, and exotic fruits from their vast empire. Meanwhile, the ancient Greeks prioritized simple ingredients like olives, honey, and fish. Romans adopted the idea of feasting and banquets as a representation of riches and authority.

The Renaissance period marked a shift in European cuisine. The discovery of the New World introduced many new ingredients to European kitchens, such as tomatoes, potatoes, maize, and chocolate.

Europe may have been at war with each other for many years, but one thing all countries will agree about is their mutual love for cheese and everything dairy.

Countries like France and Italy are well-renowned for their local cheese. Europe is renowned for its high-quality dairy products, including cheeses like Brie, Gouda, Gruyère, and Feta. Butter and cream are also commonly used in European cooking, adding richness and depth of flavor to many dishes.

Since Europe has a long coastline, seafood is a prominent ingredient in many European dishes. Seafood, including cod, salmon, herring, and shellfish, is frequently used in coastal cuisine, from grilled fish to hearty fish soups.

Breakfast, lunch, or supper - no matter what time, Europeans always have an appetite for bread. European cuisine relies heavily on bread, which comes in various styles, from baguettes in France to ciabatta in Italy.

Common grains used to make bread in Europe include wheat, rye, and barley. These grains are also frequently served as a side dish with meals or used to make pasta and dumplings.

For Filipinos, Spanish cuisine may be the most familiar to our palates. Due to colonization, Spain passed plenty of cooking techniques and ingredients to the Philippines. Some of the most familiar ingredients include tomato sauce and paste, garlic, and fresh seafood.

1. Spanish Cuisine

Spanish cuisine is famous for its unique flavors, including the smoky pimentón (paprika), tangy sherry vinegar, and robust saffron-infused rice.

Must-try Dishes

Paella: This dish spawned many renditions in the Philippines. A renowned rice dish from Valencia, paella combines saffron-infused rice, vegetables, and a variety of meats or seafood.

Tapas: Tapas in the Philippines are extremely different from what tapas is in Spain. Tapas are a variety of small plates that highlight the variety of Spanish cuisine and are a treasured Spanish tradition. Tapas allow you to sample various flavors simultaneously, from tortilla Espanola (Spanish omelet) to patatas bravas (hot potatoes).

2. Italian Cuisine

We're no strangers to some of Italian cuisine's best hits. Spaghetti (marinara pasta) is already a must-have on every Filipino occasion. If you're looking forward to trying Italian cuisine, remember that the sour notes from fresh tomatoes and basil will often overpower some of the sweetness you're familiar with.

Italian cuisine involves tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, basil, and abundant fresh herbs. The cuisine features a harmonious balance of flavors, allowing the quality of each ingredient to shine.

Must-try dishes

Pasta Carbonara: Our version of this pasta dish is in the Philippines. However, the original recipe is void of all-purpose cream and ham strips. This classic Roman dish combines al dente pasta with crispy pancetta, egg yolks, pecorino cheese, and black pepper.

Margherita Pizza: A Neapolitan creation, the Margherita pizza celebrates simplicity. Topped with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil, it captures the essence of Italian flavors in every bite. Avoid looking for pineapples on top of your pizza when speaking to an Italian - most do not approve of it!

3. French Cuisine

If you're looking forward to tasting some of the world's most exquisite and luxurious cuisines, you should not miss out on French cuisine.

French cuisine is synonymous with culinary excellence and refined gastronomy—many of the culinary techniques mastered and perfected by the best chefs in the world hail from France.

Butter, cream, herbs like thyme and tarragon, shallots, and cheeses are staples in French cooking. Rich sauces, complex pastry designs, and the skill of balancing flavors are also hallmarks of the cuisine.

Must-try dishes

Coq au Vin: This classic French dish features chicken braised in red wine, lardons (cubes of bacon), mushrooms, and aromatic herbs—the slow cooking results in tender meat and a flavorful, wine-infused sauce.

Crème Brûlée: A dessert made for those with a sweet tooth. This creamy custard with a caramelized sugar topping will make you feel like you're living a dream!

4. German Cuisine

Are you the kind of foodie who prioritizes how heartfelt and comforting the dishes are prepared? If so, you should take advantage of German cuisine.

German cuisine relies on pork, beef, potatoes, cabbage, sauerkraut, and mustard. The flavors are often bold and hearty, with spices like caraway, juniper berries, and nutmeg adding depth to the dishes.

Must-try dishes:

Sauerbraten: Sauerbraten is a typical German pot roast made with marinated and slow-cooked beef with a tangy, sweet sauce. It frequently comes with red cabbage and potato dumplings, making for a filling and healthy lunch.

Pretzels: Brezeln, or German pretzels, are expertly twisted and baked to produce a crisp, golden exterior and a soft, chewy interior. They are frequently eaten as an appetizer or with sausage and mustard.

5. Greek Cuisine

Greek food emphasizes fresh ingredients, olive oil, and herbs while showcasing lively Mediterranean flavors. Greek cuisine is renowned for its simplicity, which lets the superiority of the ingredients come through.

Must-try Dishes

Moussaka: Moussaka is a well-known Greek dish made of layers of eggplant, ground meat (often lamb or beef), and béchamel sauce. It is a filling, savory dish that highlights the complexity of Greek cooking.

Souvlaki: Layers of crisp phyllo dough are used to create this delicious pastry, filling with a tasty mixture of spinach, feta cheese, onions, herbs, and seasonings. The word "spanakopita" is a combination of the Greek words "spanaki" (spinach) and "pita" (pie), and it adequately describes this delicious delicacy.

European cuisines are a delightful reflection of the continent's rich history and cultural diversity. From the hearty flavors of Italian pasta to the exquisite French pastries and the savory delights of Spanish tapas, Europe offers a gastronomic adventure like no other. To embark on a culinary journey through the heart of Europe, we strongly recommend booking your hotel and flight through Traveloka.

Traveloka provides a convenient and reliable platform to plan your European food odyssey. With a wide selection of accommodations and flight options, along with exclusive offers and discounts, you can explore the diverse tastes of Europe with ease and affordability.

Don't miss the chance to savor the flavors of Europe's exquisite cuisines. Book your hotel and flight through Traveloka today, and set off on a culinary expedition that will tantalize your taste buds and create lasting memories!

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