Liechtenstein may be one of the smallest countries in the world, but its cuisine packs a punch.
Nestled between Switzerland and Austria, this tiny nation has a food culture that’s hearty, comforting, and downright delicious.
If you’re a foodie looking to explore something new, you’re in for a treat.
We’ve rounded up the best Liechtenstein recipes that’ll transport your taste buds straight to the Alps.
From cheesy delights to sweet indulgences, these dishes are a must-try for anyone who loves good food.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to spice up your weeknight meals, these recipes are sure to impress.
1. Käsknöpfle (Liechtenstein’s Cheesy Dumplings)
Käsknöpfle is the ultimate comfort food from Liechtenstein. Think of it as the Alpine cousin of mac and cheese, but with a twist.
This dish features soft, pillowy dumplings smothered in melted cheese and topped with crispy fried onions. It’s simple, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups grated cheese (Emmental or Gruyère work best)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Start by making the dough. Mix the flour, eggs, water, and salt until you get a smooth batter.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Using a Spätzle press or a colander, press the dough into the boiling water to form small dumplings.
Cook for 2-3 minutes until they float to the top. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, melt the butter and fry the onions until golden brown. Layer the dumplings in a baking dish, sprinkling cheese between each layer.
Top with the fried onions and bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Why We Chose It:
Käsknöpfle is a staple in Liechtenstein cuisine, and for good reason. It’s cheesy, comforting, and perfect for a cozy night in. Plus, it’s super easy to make, even for beginners.
2. Ribel (Cornmeal Porridge)
Ribel is a traditional Liechtenstein dish that’s been around for centuries.
Made from cornmeal, this porridge-like dish is versatile and can be served sweet or savory. It’s a great way to start your day or enjoy as a side dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp butter
- Optional toppings: applesauce, cinnamon, sugar, or cheese
How to Make It:
Bring the water and salt to a boil in a saucepan. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once the mixture thickens, remove from heat and stir in the butter. Serve warm with your choice of toppings.
Why We Chose It:
Ribel is a classic Liechtenstein recipe that’s both simple and versatile. It’s a great way to explore the country’s culinary roots while enjoying a hearty meal.
3. Hafalaab (Barley Soup)
Hafalaab is a traditional barley soup that’s perfect for chilly days. Packed with vegetables and tender barley, this soup is a wholesome meal in itself.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot and sauté the onions until translucent. Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes, and cook for 5 minutes.
Stir in the barley and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 45 minutes until the barley is tender. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Why We Chose It:
Hafalaab is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for anyone looking to try a traditional Liechtenstein recipe. It’s filling, flavorful, and easy to make.
4. Torkarebl (Potato Pancakes)
Torkarebl, or potato pancakes, are a crispy and delicious treat from Liechtenstein.
These golden pancakes are perfect for breakfast, a side dish, or even a snack.
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, grated
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Oil for frying
How to Make It:
Squeeze out any excess moisture from the grated potatoes and onions. In a bowl, mix the potatoes, onions, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper.
Heat oil in a skillet and drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the hot oil. Flatten them with a spatula and cook until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Why We Chose It:
Torkarebl is a simple yet delicious dish that showcases the humble potato in all its glory. It’s crispy, flavorful, and a must-try for potato lovers.
5. Schupfnudeln (Finger-Shaped Dumplings)
Schupfnudeln are soft, finger-shaped dumplings that are a favorite in Liechtenstein.
They can be served as a main dish or a side, and they pair perfectly with sauerkraut or a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Butter for frying
How to Make It:
Mix the mashed potatoes, flour, egg, salt, and nutmeg in a bowl until a dough forms.
Roll the dough into finger-sized pieces. Boil them in salted water for 5-7 minutes until they float to the top. Drain and fry in butter until golden brown.
Why We Chose It:
Schupfnudeln are a fun and tasty dish that’s perfect for anyone looking to try something new.
They’re versatile and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
6. Röteli (Cherry Compote)
Röteli is a sweet cherry compote that’s often served as a dessert or a topping for pancakes and waffles. It’s a simple yet delicious way to enjoy the flavors of Liechtenstein.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
How to Make It:
In a saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, water, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
If you prefer a thicker compote, mix the cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the compote. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until thickened.
Why We Chose It:
Röteli is a delightful dessert that’s easy to make and full of flavor. It’s a great way to end a meal on a sweet note.
7. Milchreis (Rice Pudding)
Milchreis, or rice pudding, is a creamy and comforting dessert that’s popular in Liechtenstein. It’s often served with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of fruit compote.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup short-grain rice
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Cinnamon for garnish
How to Make It:
In a saucepan, combine the rice, milk, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the vanilla extract and cook for another 5 minutes. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with cinnamon.
Why We Chose It:
Milchreis is a classic dessert that’s creamy, comforting, and perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth.
8. Apfelküchle (Apple Fritters)
Apfelküchle are crispy apple fritters that are a favorite in Liechtenstein. They’re perfect for dessert or as a sweet snack.
Ingredients:
- 2 large apples, peeled and sliced into rings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How to Make It:
In a bowl, mix the flour, milk, egg, sugar, and baking powder to make a batter. Heat oil in a skillet and dip the apple slices into the batter.
Fry until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Why We Chose It:
Apfelküchle are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for apple lovers.
9. Zwiebelkuchen (Onion Tart)
Zwiebelkuchen is a savory onion tart that’s a popular dish in Liechtenstein. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 1 pie crust
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
How to Make It:
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a tart pan. In a skillet, melt the butter and sauté the onions until caramelized.
In a bowl, mix the sour cream, eggs, salt, and pepper. Spread the onions over the pie crust and pour the sour cream mixture on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes until set.
Why We Chose It:
Zwiebelkuchen is a savory and satisfying dish that’s perfect for onion lovers.
10. Nusstorte (Nut Tart)
Nusstorte is a rich and nutty tart that’s a favorite in Liechtenstein. It’s perfect for dessert or as a sweet treat with coffee.
Ingredients:
- 1 pie crust
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make It:
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a tart pan. In a saucepan, combine the sugar, honey, and heavy cream.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Stir in the walnuts and vanilla extract. Pour the mixture into the pie crust and bake for 20-25 minutes.
Why We Chose It:
Nusstorte is a decadent dessert that’s perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth.
11. Bündner Gerstensuppe (Barley Soup with Vegetables)
Bündner Gerstensuppe is a hearty barley soup that’s packed with vegetables and flavor. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for cold days.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot and sauté the onions until translucent. Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes, and cook for 5 minutes.
Stir in the barley and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 45 minutes until the barley is tender.
Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Why We Chose It:
Bündner Gerstensuppe is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for anyone looking to try a traditional Liechtenstein recipe.
Conclusion
There you have it—10+ of the best Liechtenstein recipes you need to try at least once.
From cheesy Käsknöpfle to sweet Nusstorte, these dishes are sure to impress your family and friends.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, head to the kitchen, and start cooking your way through the flavors of Liechtenstein.