Food in Moldova

Moldova, a hidden gem in Eastern Europe, beckons travelers with its rolling hills, vineyard-laced landscapes, and a culinary scene that is both diverse and deeply rooted in tradition. Moldovan cuisine is a testament to the country's rich history and cultural influences, offering an array of flavors that are sure to satisfy any food lover's palate. As you plan your visit to Moldova, prepare to indulge in an array of traditional dishes that are as hearty as they are flavorful. This article will guide you through the must-try specialties that define Moldovan gastronomy, ensuring that your culinary journey is as memorable as the scenic beauty of this often-overlooked destination.

Moldovan Dishes

Mămăligă

Mămăligă is a staple in Moldovan cuisine, similar to Italian polenta or Southern American grits. It's a thick porridge made from yellow cornmeal and traditionally served as an accompaniment to stews and meat dishes. Often, Mămăligă is complemented with cheese, sour cream, or a garlic chili sauce called mujdei.

Sarmale

Sarmale are stuffed cabbage rolls common in Moldovan cuisine. They are made with a mix of minced pork and beef, rice, onions, and spices, all rolled in pickled cabbage leaves. These rolls are slow-cooked in a tomato sauce and often served with a dollop of sour cream and a side of Mămăligă.

Plăcintă

Plăcintă is a traditional Moldovan pastry that is versatile and can be filled with anything from sweet cheese and fruits to savory fillings like potatoes, cabbage, or meat. These pastries are either fried or baked and are a common snack found in bakeries and street food stands throughout Moldova.

Zeamă

Zeamă is a nourishing chicken soup that is a comfort food for many Moldovans. It's prepared with homemade noodles or dumplings, vegetables like carrots and potatoes, and seasoned with parsley and lovage. It's particularly popular during the cold months or as a remedy for the common cold.

Tochitură Moldovenească

Tochitură Moldovenească is a hearty meat stew that's often enjoyed as a warm meal during the winter. Typically made with pork, it's seasoned with garlic and served with Mămăligă, cheese, and sometimes a fried egg on top. It's a rustic dish that reflects the agricultural traditions of the region.

Chorba

Chorba is a term that encompasses a variety of sour soups in Moldovan cuisine. The acidity usually comes from either lemon juice, vinegar, or a fermented wheat bran mixture called borș. Chorba can feature a range of ingredients, including vegetables, meat, and sometimes noodles or dumplings.

Friptură

Friptură refers to grilled or roasted meat, typically pork, lamb, or chicken, that's well-seasoned and served with vegetables or Mămăligă. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the quality of local meats and the skill of Moldovan cooks in preparing them.

Moldovan Desserts

Cozonac

Cozonac is a sweet bread that's traditionally prepared for major holidays like Christmas and Easter. This rich, brioche-like loaf is filled with a swirl of walnuts, poppy seeds, or sometimes cocoa, giving it a distinctive look and taste.

Poale-n brâu

Also known as "brânzoaice," Poale-n brâu is a Moldovan pastry filled with sweetened cheese. The name translates to "in the belt," referring to the way the dough is folded over the filling, resembling a belt. It's a popular treat in Moldova, especially during festive times.

Pască

Pască is a traditional Easter dessert that is a type of round cheesecake, made with a sweet yeast dough and filled with a mixture of fresh cheese, eggs, and sugar. It is often decorated with a cross on top, symbolizing its religious significance.

Plăcinte cu vișine

These are turnovers filled with sour cherries, a common fruit in Moldova. The combination of the tart cherries with the sweet pastry makes for a delightful dessert or snack, often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.

Ștrudel cu mere

Moldovan apple strudel takes inspiration from the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Thin layers of dough are filled with sweetened apples and spices like cinnamon, then baked until golden. It's a comforting dessert that's popular throughout the country.