Moldovan Cuisine: Discover the flavors of Eastern Europe. Try traditional dishes like mamaliga, sarmale, and placinte, paired with local wines at restaurants like La Placinte and Carpe Diem.

Exploring Moldovan Cuisine: Traditional Dishes and Drinks to Try and Where to Find Them

Moldova, a small country located in Eastern Europe, is known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse cuisine. The country’s cuisine is a blend of traditional Romanian and Russian dishes, with a touch of Turkish and Ukrainian influence. Moldovan cuisine is characterized by its hearty and flavorful dishes, which are often made with locally sourced ingredients.

One of the most popular dishes in Moldova is mamaliga, a type of cornmeal porridge that is similar to polenta. Mamaliga is typically served as a side dish and is often accompanied by sour cream and cheese. Another popular dish is sarmale, which are stuffed cabbage rolls filled with a mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices. Sarmale is typically served with a side of sour cream and is a staple dish during holidays and special occasions.

If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, try placinte, a type of savory pastry that is filled with cheese, potatoes, or meat. Placinte is often sold at street markets and is a popular snack among locals. Another popular snack is mici, which are small grilled sausages made with a mixture of beef, lamb, and pork. Mici are typically served with mustard and bread and are a popular dish during summer barbecues.

When it comes to drinks, Moldova is known for its wine. The country has a long history of winemaking, and its wines are highly regarded around the world. One of the most popular types of wine in Moldova is red wine, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Moldova is also known for its sparkling wines, which are made using the traditional method.

If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic drink, try compot, a type of fruit punch that is made with a variety of fruits, including cherries, plums, and apples. Compot is typically served cold and is a refreshing drink during the summer months.

If you’re interested in trying traditional Moldovan cuisine, there are several restaurants in the capital city of Chisinau that serve authentic dishes. One popular restaurant is La Placinte, which specializes in traditional Moldovan cuisine. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and serves a variety of dishes, including mamaliga, sarmale, and placinte.

Another popular restaurant is Caravan, which is located in the heart of Chisinau. The restaurant serves a variety of traditional dishes, including mici and placinte, as well as international cuisine. Caravan has a modern and stylish atmosphere and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, try visiting one of the many street markets in Chisinau. These markets offer a variety of traditional snacks and dishes, including placinte and mici. The markets are a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine.

Outside of Chisinau, there are several small towns and villages that offer traditional Moldovan cuisine. One popular destination is the town of Orhei, which is located about 30 minutes outside of Chisinau. Orhei is known for its traditional Moldovan dishes, including mamaliga and sarmale. The town also has several wineries that offer wine tastings and tours.

In conclusion, Moldovan cuisine is a blend of traditional Romanian and Russian dishes, with a touch of Turkish and Ukrainian influence. The country’s cuisine is characterized by its hearty and flavorful dishes, which are often made with locally sourced ingredients. If you’re interested in trying traditional Moldovan cuisine, there are several restaurants in Chisinau that serve authentic dishes, as well as street markets and small towns outside of the city. Moldova is also known for its wine, particularly red wine and sparkling wine, which are highly regarded around the world. Whether you’re a foodie or a wine enthusiast, Moldova has something to offer everyone.