A Guide To Essential Austrian Supermarket Buys

When shopping at a supermarket in Austria, it's essential to know what items are commonly available and popular among locals. Austria is known for its high-quality produce, dairy, and meat products, so look out for fresh vegetables, fruits, and artisanal cheeses. The country also boasts a strong coffee culture, so don't forget to pick up some high-quality Austrian coffee beans or ground coffee. Additionally, you'll find a wide variety of local and international beers, as well as a selection of traditional Austrian snacks like pretzels, strudel, and linzertorte. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, you might also find hiking gear and sports equipment in some supermarkets.

Dairy: Fresh cheese, yogurt, butter, and cream

When shopping for dairy products in an Austrian supermarket, you'll find a variety of options that cater to both local and international tastes. Here's a breakdown of the essential dairy items to stock up on:

Fresh Cheese: Austria is renowned for its cheese production, and you'll discover an array of local varieties in supermarkets. The most popular type is likely to be 'Bergkäse' or mountain cheese, which is a semi-hard cheese with a slightly sharp and nutty flavor. It's often used in dishes like fondue or simply enjoyed with bread. Another common choice is 'Camembert', a soft, creamy cheese with a rich, buttery texture and a distinct, slightly pungent aroma. For those who prefer something more mild, 'Mozzarella' is widely available, either fresh or aged, and is perfect for salads, sandwiches, or as a side dish. Don't miss out on trying 'Blue Cheese', a strong, pungent variety that is often used in salads or as a topping for steaks.

Yogurt: Austrian yogurt is known for its creamy texture and tangy flavor. You can find both Greek-style and regular yogurt, with the former being thicker and creamier. Look for flavors like vanilla, which is a classic choice, or opt for fruit-infused varieties for a sweeter treat. Some supermarkets also offer organic or bio yogurt, which is often made with local ingredients and has a slightly different taste compared to conventional yogurt.

Butter: Butter is a staple in Austrian cuisine and is used in numerous dishes, from baking to cooking. You'll typically find both salted and unsalted butter, with the latter being more common in baking recipes. Austrian butter is known for its rich, creamy texture and is often produced from grass-fed cows, giving it a unique flavor. Look for butter in various sizes, from small sticks to larger blocks, allowing you to choose the most suitable option for your needs.

Cream: Heavy whipping cream is a versatile dairy product used in both sweet and savory dishes. It's a key ingredient in many desserts, such as tiramisu or crème brûlée, and is also used to thicken soups and sauces. You can find it in various fat percentages, with higher-fat content being more common in traditional Austrian recipes. Additionally, look out for single or double cream, which is essentially the same as heavy whipping cream but with lower fat content, suitable for everyday cooking and baking.

Meat: Sausages, schnitzel, ham, and cured meats

When shopping for meat in an Austrian supermarket, you'll find a variety of options that showcase the country's rich culinary traditions. Here's a guide to help you navigate the meat section:

Sausages: Austria is famous for its sausages, and you'll find an array of varieties to choose from. Look for the classic 'Wurst' section, where you can find different types of sausages like the popular 'Bregenwurst' (a sweet and savory sausage), 'Käsekrainer' (a sausage with cheese), and 'Blutwurst' (a blood sausage). These sausages are often served grilled or fried and are a staple in Austrian cuisine. You might also come across regional specialties like 'Tyrolean Sausage' or 'Styrian Sausage,' each with its unique flavor and texture.

Schnitzel: This is a beloved Austrian dish and a must-have in your meat selection. The traditional Austrian 'Wiener Schnitzel' is a thin, breaded and fried veal cutlet. It's a classic for a reason—the tender veal, crispy breading, and lemon wedges on the side make for a delicious meal. You can also find chicken schnitzel, which is a lighter option and often served with a side of potatoes or salad.

Ham: Austrian supermarkets offer a selection of hams, including the famous 'Bregenwurst' ham, which is a type of cured sausage. Look for 'Schinken' in the deli counter, which can be fresh or cured. The 'Wiener Schinken' is a popular choice, known for its delicate flavor and is often used in sandwiches or served with cheese.

Cured Meats: The cured meat section is a treasure trove for meat lovers. You'll find various types of cured hams, such as 'Jagerschinken' (a cured ham with a hint of spice), and 'Bacon' (often referred to as ' Speck' in Austria). 'Würstchen' (small cured sausages) are also available, providing a convenient snack or ingredient for dishes.

Remember, Austrian supermarkets often have a focus on quality and tradition, so look for products with authentic labels and certifications to ensure you're getting the real deal. Enjoy exploring the meat section and discovering the delicious flavors Austria has to offer!

Bread: Traditional rye bread, pastries, and fresh rolls

When visiting an Austrian supermarket, you'll find a delightful array of bread and baked goods that showcase the country's rich culinary heritage. One of the most iconic and traditional items is rye bread, a staple in Austrian cuisine. This bread is known for its dense, dark color and slightly sour taste, which is a result of the rye flour used in its preparation. Austrian rye bread is often made with a combination of rye flour and wheat flour, creating a unique texture and flavor. It's a popular choice for breakfast, sandwiches, or simply enjoyed with butter and jam.

In addition to rye bread, you'll discover an assortment of pastries that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Austrian pastries are renowned for their delicate flavors and beautiful decorations. One classic example is the 'Kaisersemmel', a sweet yeast roll with a crisp crust and a soft, fluffy interior. These rolls are often enjoyed with coffee or tea and can be found in various sizes, from small individual portions to larger loaves. Another beloved pastry is the 'Strudel', which comes in many varieties, such as apple strudel, cherry strudel, or even chocolate strudel. These pastries are typically served with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of vanilla ice cream.

Fresh rolls, or 'Brot', are also a common sight in Austrian supermarkets. These rolls come in different shapes and sizes, including the classic baguette-like 'Brotlaib' and the smaller, round 'Brotchen'. The 'Brotchen' is a favorite for making sandwiches, as its soft, slightly chewy texture holds fillings well. You might also find specialty rolls like the 'Kaisersemmelbrot', which is a larger version of the famous pastry, or the 'Dinkelbrot', a rye-based bread with a nutty flavor.

For those who enjoy baking, Austrian supermarkets offer a wide range of ingredients to recreate these traditional breads and pastries at home. You can find various types of flour, including rye flour, wheat flour, and whole grain options. Yeast, butter, and a selection of jams and preserves are also readily available. Look for local brands like 'Zwiebel' or 'Brotzeit' for high-quality baking essentials.

Exploring the bread section in an Austrian supermarket is a delightful way to immerse yourself in the country's culinary culture. Whether you're a fan of the hearty rye bread, the delicate pastries, or the versatile fresh rolls, there's something for every palate. Don't forget to try some local specialties and perhaps even bring some ingredients back home to recreate these delicious Austrian treats in your own kitchen.

Produce: Apples, pears, potatoes, and seasonal vegetables

When shopping for fresh produce in an Austrian supermarket, you'll find a variety of high-quality local and regional products. Here's a guide to some of the best items to look for:

Apples: Austria is renowned for its apple production, and you'll find numerous varieties available throughout the year. The most common and popular type is the Red Delicious, known for its sweet and crisp flavor. Other varieties include Golden Delicious, which is slightly sweeter, and the more acidic and aromatic Pink Lady. Look for firm, unblemished apples with vibrant colors. You can also find organic and locally sourced apples, which often have a unique flavor profile.

Pears: Austrian supermarkets offer a range of pears, with the most common being the Conference pear, which is sweet and juicy. Another popular variety is the Williams pear, known for its buttery texture and delicate flavor. Pears are best when they are slightly soft to the touch, indicating ripeness.

Potatoes: Potatoes are a staple in Austrian cuisine, and you'll find various types available. The most common is the Yellow Dutch variety, which is versatile and suitable for boiling, mashing, and roasting. Another popular choice is the Red Pontiac, a waxy potato with a thin skin, perfect for baking and mashing. For a unique flavor, try the Purple Peruvian potato, which has a slightly sweet taste and is great for roasting.

Seasonal Vegetables: Austria's climate allows for a diverse range of seasonal vegetables. In the summer, you can find an abundance of tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers. Look for ripe, colorful tomatoes with a good bite. Cucumbers should be crisp and refreshing, perfect for salads. As the seasons change, expect to find an array of root vegetables like carrots, beets, and turnips. Leafy greens such as spinach, Swiss chard, and arugula are also available year-round.

Remember to check the freshness and quality of the produce by examining the color, texture, and overall appearance. Austrian supermarkets often have a dedicated section for fresh produce, making it easy to find these items.

Snacks: Pretzels, nuts, chocolate, and local specialties

When visiting an Austrian supermarket, you'll find a delightful array of snacks that reflect the country's rich culinary traditions and love for quality produce. Here's a guide to some must-have snacks:

Pretzels: Austrian pretzels, known as 'Brezeln', are a beloved snack and a symbol of Austrian cuisine. These pretzels are often baked with a variety of toppings, such as cheese, herbs, or even chocolate. Look for the traditional 'Käsebrezeln' (cheese pretzels) or the sweet 'Schokoladenbrezeln' (chocolate pretzels). The latter is a popular treat, especially during the Christmas season. You can find these pretzels in most bakeries and supermarkets, often displayed in the bakery section or the snack aisle.

Nuts: Austria's proximity to the Alps provides access to a wide variety of nuts, including the famous Austrian 'Waldnüsse' (forest nuts). These are typically a mix of hazelnuts, almonds, and walnuts, often roasted and salted to perfection. You can find these nuts in bulk or pre-packaged, and they make a great snack on their own or as an ingredient in other dishes. Additionally, look out for other types of nuts like pecans, macadamia nuts, and pistachios, which are also available and can be enjoyed as a healthy snack.

Chocolate: Austrians have a sweet tooth, and their chocolate is renowned for its high quality. You'll find a wide range of chocolate products, from milk chocolate bars to dark chocolate truffles. The famous 'Zartbitter' (bitter chocolate) is a popular choice, known for its rich, intense flavor. Look for local brands like 'Zartbitter' or 'Lindt' for the best selection. Chocolate-covered pretzels and nuts are also a delightful treat, combining the country's love for pretzels and nuts with its renowned chocolate.

Local Specialties: Austrian supermarkets also offer a variety of local specialties that make excellent snacks. For example, 'Kaisersemmel' is a traditional sweet bread that can be enjoyed with butter or jam. 'Linzertorte' is a famous tart originating from the city of Linz, featuring a sweet and savory filling. 'Strudel' is another iconic Austrian dessert, available in various flavors like apple, cherry, or chocolate. These local specialties provide a unique taste of Austria and are perfect for a quick, delicious snack.

Exploring these snacks will give you a true taste of Austria and provide a memorable shopping experience at the supermarket.

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