Embracing Austrian Culture: A Guide To Oe1 And Beyond

If you want to be more Austrian, you could start by tuning into the radio station OE1, which is one of four national channels operated by Austria's public broadcaster ORF. The station focuses on classical music and opera, jazz, documentaries, news, radio plays, and dramas. Austrians are known for their love of the outdoors, dairy, and pork, as well as their strong emphasis on punctuality and cleanliness. So, if you want to embrace the Austrian way of life, make sure you get out and explore the stunning Austrian countryside, enjoy some cheese and schnitzel, and always be sure to arrive a few minutes early!

Embrace dairy products

Austria is a country with a rich dairy culture, and Austrians consume dairy products in a variety of ways. From cheese, milk, butter, buttermilk, and cream to creamy spreads and sauces, mayonnaise in salads, and even drinks made from cheese juice, like Latella, dairy is an integral part of the Austrian diet. This love for dairy likely stems from the country's rural farming tradition and the affection Austrians have for their cows.

To embrace dairy products like an Austrian, be prepared to indulge in a variety of cheese, milk, and butter-based dishes. Austrians enjoy cheese in its many forms, from solid cheeses like the traditional Alpine cheeses to creamy spreads and sauces. Milk is also consumed regularly, not just as a beverage but also as a base for soups and desserts. Butter is another staple, used generously in cooking and baking, and even as a spread on its own.

Explore the variety of Austrian cheeses available, such as the popular Alpine cheeses like Bergkäse, a hard, nutty-flavoured cheese, or the softer, tangy Topfen, similar to cream cheese. Try different types of milk, including cow's, sheep's, and goat's milk, which are all commonly consumed in Austria. Experiment with using butter in new ways, such as melting it over vegetables or spreading it on bread.

Incorporate dairy into your meals like Austrians do. Start your day with a traditional Austrian breakfast of muesli soaked in milk and topped with fresh cream, or enjoy a slice of butterbrot, a simple yet delicious open-faced sandwich with butter and cheese. For lunch or dinner, indulge in a hearty dish like Käseknödel, cheese dumplings served with a creamy sauce, or try the classic Wiener Schnitzel, a breaded and fried pork cutlet often served with a side of potato salad or creamy mashed potatoes.

Finally, don't forget to try some of the unique dairy-based drinks that Austrians enjoy. Latella, made from "cheese juice," may be an acquired taste, but it's worth trying to understand the Austrian passion for dairy. Austrians also enjoy buttermilk, a tangy, fermented dairy drink, and of course, there's always a warm cup of hot chocolate made with milk to warm up during the cold Austrian winters. So, whether you're snacking on cheese, cooking with cream, or sipping on a dairy-based beverage, embracing dairy products is a delicious way to immerse yourself in Austrian culture.

Cleanliness is imperative

Cleanliness is of utmost importance in Austria. The country is described as an "OCD dream of cleanliness", with organised fields, neat streets, and a general sense of orderliness. Austrians take pride in keeping their surroundings spotless, and it is not uncommon to see residents sweeping their streets or participating in city-wide cleaning initiatives in preparation for the tourist season. This dedication to cleanliness extends beyond personal spaces, as the entire nation embraces a culture of tidiness.

Punctuality is another essential aspect of Austrian culture. Being on time is highly valued, and arriving early is often seen as a sign of respect. For Austrians, being five minutes early is considered being on time. This emphasis on punctuality is deeply ingrained in their society, and lateness is not tolerated lightly.

Austria's stunning countryside and mountainous terrain also play a significant role in shaping the culture. Austrians have a deep appreciation for the outdoors and engage in various activities such as hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and "Wandern," which refers to lengthy hikes that can last for hours. During the winter, skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and touring (hiking in the snow-covered mountains) become popular pastimes. The mountains hold a special importance for Austrians, and they enthusiastically participate in outdoor activities despite the challenging terrain.

In addition to their love for nature, Austrians also have a strong affinity for dairy products. Cheese, milk, butter, buttermilk, cream, and creamy sauces are integral components of Austrian cuisine. This passion for dairy is deeply rooted in their rural traditions and love for cows. One unique example of their dairy innovations is Latella, a drink made from the leftover juice of the cheese-making process. While some may find this drink unappealing, it is a testament to the Austrians' creativity and their devotion to all things dairy.

Austrians love the outdoors

Austrians are known for their love of nature and the outdoors. The country's stunning landscapes, including the Alps and lakes, provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Austrians often spend time in nature through activities such as hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Socialising often involves outdoor gatherings and excursions to lakes or mountains.

Austria's natural beauty and diverse landscapes lend themselves to various outdoor pursuits. The federal state of Styria, known as the "Green Heart" of Austria, is particularly renowned for its natural beauty and artistic treasures. Here, one can truly appreciate the Austrians' deep connection to nature and their commitment to sustainability. Austrians value nature, tradition, and a well-balanced life, embodying a unique blend of old-world charm and modern sensibilities.

Outdoor activities are an integral part of Austrian culture and social life. Austrians often socialise and spend time with family and friends through outdoor activities such as walks, hikes, or winter sports. Family is paramount in Austrian culture, and mealtimes are considered a family affair. Austrians value spending time with their loved ones and often share meals, go on walks, or participate in outdoor activities together.

Austrians also have a strong appreciation for their country's natural beauty and work hard to preserve it. They are known for their environmentalism and commitment to sustainability. Austria has strong environmental policies, organic agricultural practices, and a focus on renewable energy sources. Austrians recognise the importance of protecting their pristine natural surroundings for future generations to enjoy. Overall, Austrians embrace a lifestyle that harmoniously combines indoor and outdoor pursuits, valuing both social connections and their connection to nature.

Pork is king

Austrians love their pork, and it is a staple of the country's cuisine. The Austrian diet is built on the back of a pig, and pork is served in a variety of dishes, from schnitzel to cordon bleu, and even in breakfast spreads. Yes, Austrians will sneak pork into just about anything! The fat of the pig is made spreadable and is commonly enjoyed in the morning.

Pork is often served with generous helpings of potatoes, and the famous Kartöffel salad is a classic example of this. This salad is made with potatoes, of course, as well as other ingredients like mayonnaise—another testament to the Austrians' love of dairy. In fact, dairy is everywhere in Austria. From cheese to milk, butter, buttermilk, cream, and creamy sauces, Austrians enjoy all kinds of dairy products. This love of dairy even extends to a drink made from "cheese juice"—a leftover juice from the cheese-making process called Latella.

The Austrian affinity for pork may stem from the country's rural tradition of farming and love for their cows. Austrians take pride in their cleanliness and orderliness, and this extends to their farms and livestock. With their organized fields and neat streets, it's no wonder that Austrians have a soft spot for their porcine friends.

So, if you're looking to embrace your inner Austrian, remember that pork is king! Whether it's in a schnitzel or a salad, Austrians find a way to sneak this beloved meat into just about any dish.

Punctuality is key

Planning is essential to being punctual. Austrians are known for their organization and attention to detail. They plan their time effectively to ensure they arrive early. This may include allowing extra time for travel, especially during busy times or when using public transport. Austrians are also known for their precision and efficiency, which helps them stay on schedule. They may use tools such as calendars, planners, or reminders to help them stay organized and on track.

Respect for others' time is another critical aspect of punctuality in Austria. Austrians value their time and expect others to do the same. They understand that everyone has busy schedules and that time is precious. By being punctual, they show that they respect and value the time of those they meet. Being punctual also demonstrates a sense of discipline and self-control. Austrians are known for their self-discipline and ability to manage their time effectively. They understand the importance of being punctual and make it a priority in their lives.

Punctuality also extends to deadlines and commitments. Austrians are known for their reliability and commitment to their work and personal obligations. They take deadlines seriously and ensure they complete tasks on time. This applies to both professional and personal contexts. In the workplace, Austrians are known for their strong work ethic and dedication to their jobs. They are reliable and dependable, always meeting deadlines and delivering on their promises. In their personal lives, Austrians are also known for their commitment and follow-through. They value their relationships and honor their commitments to family, friends, and community.

Frequently asked questions