pálinka

‘Egészségedre!’: Handy guide to toasting in Hungary

toasting in Hungary

When it comes to toasting in Hungary, it’s not just about raising a glass—it’s about honouring centuries of tradition and adding a dash of cultural flair to any celebration. From mastering the tricky “Egészségedre!” word to avoiding the historic no-beer-toast rule, every detail tells a story. And don’t forget to lock eyes during the clink—superstition says your next seven years of luck might depend on it! Whether it’s wine, pálinka, or simply the joy of togetherness, toasting in Hungary is your passport to making moments unforgettable.

What to say when toasting in Hungary?

Toasting in Hungary is a vibrant tradition steeped in history and cultural significance, making it an essential part of any social gathering. When raising a glass, Hungarians typically say “Egészségedre!” (the pronunciation is something like: egg-ace-shay-ged-re), which translates to “to your health.” However, many just say “Egészség!”, which translates to “health”, probably because it is shorter. After all, it might not be too easy to pronounce such a long Hungarian word after a few drinks… You can also toast to someone’s health by saying for example “Tibor egészségére”, “to Tibor’s health”. In addition, you can also acknowledge achievements by saying “Az új munkádra!”, “To your new job!”.

Do not toast with beer

Interestingly, the custom of toasting in Hungary is influenced by a historical vow dating back to the 1848 revolution against the Austrians. For over 150 years, it was considered inappropriate to toast with beer, as it was believed that doing so would disrespect the memory of fallen heroes. Although this ban has since been lifted, many Hungarians still prefer to toast with wine or pálinka, a traditional fruit brandy that holds a special place in Hungarian culture.

toasting in Hungary
Photo: depositphotos.com

Avoid seven years of bad luck

Another intriguing aspect of toasting in Hungary is the emphasis on maintaining eye contact during the toast. It is said that failing to do so can bring seven years of bad luck—a superstition that adds an engaging quirk to the ritual. This practice highlights the importance of sincerity and connection in Hungarian culture.

Whether at weddings, birthdays, or casual gatherings, toasting serves as a reminder of the bonds we share and the joy of celebrating life’s moments together. So next time you find yourself in Hungary, don’t forget to raise your glass and join in on this delightful tradition—after all, it’s not just about the drink; it’s about the shared experience and the stories that unfold with each toast!

Prepare yourself…

Guests are often expected to make a toast themselves at some point during a meal, especially if they are being toasted personally or are the guest of honour. It’s also customary for guests not to refuse drinks offered by their hosts, particularly pálinka, as doing so could be seen as impolite. On the other hand, someone being so pushy about giving you a drink may come off as impolite as well.

Hungarian pálinka
Source: Wikimedia Commons/T.MESE

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Featured image: depositphotos.com

Top 5 Hungarian towns to visit this autumn

debrecen hungary Hungarian town

As the leaves on the trees turn yellow and brown, the autumn offers a stunning backdrop to explore Hungary’s rich history and vibrant culture through visiting charming Hungarian towns. In this article, we have collected five towns worth seeing. Each town is a unique blend of architectural splendour, natural beauty, and cultural significance, making them ideal destinations for autumn exploration. Hopefully, you will agree too!

Veszprém

Veszprém is one of the oldest Hungarian towns, often called the “City of Queens” due to its historical ties to Hungarian royalty. Nestled in the Bakony Hills, this charming town is home to the Veszprém Castle, which offers breathtaking views, especially in the vibrant colours of autumn. Another highlight is the Fire Tower, a must-visit for panoramic views of the town. Veszprém’s cultural wealth is reflected in its museums, such as the Archbishop’s Palace and the Vass Collection of Modern Art. Known as a European Capital of Culture in 2023, Veszprém is a top destination in autumn for those looking to explore Hungarian towns with deep historical roots and rich cultural offerings.

veszprém city
Photo: facebook.com/VeszpremBalaton2023

Kecskemét

Kecskemét, located in the heart of the Great Hungarian Plain, is one of the most architecturally unique Hungarian towns, celebrated for its vibrant Art Nouveau style. The striking Cifra Palace, adorned with colourful ceramic tiles, houses the Kecskemét Gallery, making it a cultural hub in the town. Other must-see landmarks include the grand Town Hall and the Great Church, both reflecting Kecskemét’s historical and religious importance.

In autumn, the town’s tree-lined parks and squares, such as Kossuth Square, are aglow with autumnal hues, perfect for relaxed strolls. A visit to Kecskemét wouldn’t be complete without sampling the country’s fruit brandy, pálinka, which adds to the town’s unique autumn charm and keeps you warm on chillier days.

Debrecen

Debrecen, the second-largest Hungarian city, is renowned for its cultural and historical significance. The Reformed Great Church, a symbol of Hungarian Protestantism, is an iconic sight in the town’s centre. Debrecen is also a vibrant cultural destination, home to the Déri Museum and many other historical sites. In autumn, the city’s surrounding Nagyerdő Park offers a peaceful retreat, with its autumn leaves creating a stunning natural display. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, Debrecen is a great autumn destination!

debrecen hungary Hungarian town
Debrecen, Hungary. Source: depositphotos.com

Tihany

Did you think that Lake Balaton was only a big hit during the summer? We are here to prove you wrong! Tihany, situated on the northern shore of Lake Balaton, is one of the most scenic Hungarian towns, especially during autumn. The Benedictine Abbey, founded in 1055, is a significant historical landmark, offering breathtaking views of the lake.

Tihany’s vineyards and lavender fields, framed by the golden hues of autumn, make it a perfect destination for nature lovers and wine enthusiasts alike. The town’s peaceful atmosphere is ideal for an autumn getaway, with local wineries offering tastings of Balaton’s best wines. For those looking to experience the natural beauty and historical charm of Hungarian towns, Tihany is a must-see in the autumn months.

Tihany confectionery
Photo: FB / Tihanyi Bencés Apátság

Győr

Győr, located between Budapest and Vienna, is a baroque treasure among Hungarian towns, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and architecture. Its historic old town is home to the Bishop’s Castle, the Carmelite Church, and the bustling Széchenyi Square. With its mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture, Győr stands as one of the most architecturally diverse Hungarian towns. Autumn is an especially vibrant time to visit, as the town’s parks and riverside paths come alive with autumn colours. Whether you’re interested in history or simply looking for a relaxing city break, Győr is one of the top Hungarian towns to explore during the autumn season.

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Featured image: depositphotos.com

Changing trends: Can alcohol in Hungary still be considered cheap?

Drinks Celebration Alcohol Party alcohol in Hungary

As expected, the COVID pandemic affected the tourism sector in Hungary in many ways. For example, it completely redesigned the habits regarding consuming alcohol in Hungary. During the lockdown, many people figured out that making cocktails at home is far more affordable than going out to fancy bars. In addition, the price of alcohol in Hungary is not necessarily attracting tourists to the country anymore.

Hungary is no longer an affordable destination

Habits and changing trends regarding alcohol consumption in Hungary were the focus of Pénzcentrum‘s recent interview with Zsolt Erdei, CEO of Passion Group. According to the CEO, Hungary is no longer the affordable destination it once was for tourists seeking low-cost experiences, especially when it comes to dining out. The prices at Hungarian restaurants have risen significantly, with even traditional dishes like goulash soup coming at a cost that rivals meals in cities like Barcelona (where Erdei lives), despite differences in the types of cuisine offered. Various factors have contributed to these price hikes, making Hungary less attractive for those who previously visited due to its affordability.

Do tourists come for the cheap alcohol in Hungary?

The CEO suggests that alcohol in Hungary is not necessarily cheaper than in other EU countries. In addition, the tourism sector in Hungary is also facing challenges in terms of visitor demographics. Previously, there was a steady influx of tourists interested in good bars and restaurants, but these numbers faced a sharp drop. Meanwhile, Erdei notes that some excellent initiatives and sophisticated bars exist in Hungary. However, the affluent class of tourists rarely target Budapest.

According to the CEO, the key to regaining this market lies in the fact that the industry needs to adopt a strong strategy. In addition, fostering better partnerships to highlight Hungary’s excellent culinary and alcohol offerings, particularly in Budapest, is also of high importance. Effective marketing and collaboration are essential to attract more gastronomically focused travellers to the capital.

Drinks Celebration Alcohol Party
Pixabay: Bridgesward

Changing tendencies

Globally, alcohol consumption is declining across all age groups. In Hungary, changing habits are starting to reflect a broader international trend. Younger generations, particularly Generation Y, are consuming less alcohol, with a recent survey showing that half had not consumed any alcohol in a given month. In the decade of social media, young people are trying to be more conscious about what they do, as anything could end up online.

This shift has impacted producers, including winemakers and brewers, who are increasingly focusing on low-alcohol and alcohol-free alternatives such as sparkling wines and flavoured beers. Major beer companies, present in Hungary, predict that by 2025, non-alcoholic and low-alcohol products will account for half of their sales. Thus, alcohol in Hungary will become even less popular. Although this trend is slower to take hold here, it is expected that alcohol consumption among younger people will continue to decline in the upcoming years as well.

alcohol Hungarian
Photo: Pixabay

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Pálinka production in Hungary endangered due to climate change

Pálinka Hungary university

Pálinka is a traditional spirit in Hungary, consumed by many on family occasions, in bars or at parties. After swimming 10 kilometres in the Seine at the Paris Olympics, the 19-year-old Bettina Fábián even disinfected with a fine peach pálinka. However, peach, apple, or raspberry pálinka is in danger. Instead, you may consume more kiwi pálinka in the future.

Hungarian pálinka and wine will taste differently

According to experts, apple and peach pálinka are endangered in Hungary because of the changing climate. Meteorologists say the problem with Hungary’s weather concerning agricultural production is simple: the dominant Western winds weaken, and as a result, extremities from the North and the South are becoming more frequent. The consequence is that fruit yield freezes in May, while the crop struggles with extreme draught in July or August.

Nobody knows whether that fundamental trend can be reversed. But winemakers, for example, are preparing to plant Southern wine types in Hungary, enduring extreme heat. As a result, Hungarian wine flavours may change in the future, just like pálinka.

Hungarian swimmer disinfected with pálinka
Hungarian swimmer disinfected with pálinka after swimming 10 kms in the Seine in Paris. Photo: PrtScr/Facebook/MÚSZ

László Mihályi, president of the National Council of Pálinka (PNT), told Infórádió’s Aréna that pálinka distilleries will have to replace some fruits because of climate change. He said that in the case of peach, the previous trend was that after 3-4 good years, a challenging one followed. The new trend is the opposite: one good year and four bad years.

Kiwi pálinka instead of apple and raspberry

The change’s primary reason was the May frosts. Some producers plant late-blooming trees, but their fruit is different, which makes their pálinka taste different, too.

The best Hungarian pálinkas
Photo: Big Green Egg Hungary/FB

The president of the PNT said plums and cherries will resist the changing climate, but apples will be problematic. A solution could be extended irrigation, but in some places, that can be hard in Hungary. However, raspberry will probably disappear from Hungary because of climate change, just like blackcurrant. However, Hungary’s climate allows farmers to grow kiwi, so distilleries began to produce kiwi pálinka.

Mr Mihályi added that growing fruits is labour intensive, and agriculture has been struggling with the lack of workforce for years.

Pálinka Üveg Glass
Peach pálinka in danger. Source: facebook.com/palinkanemzetitanacs/

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Great success in the US: Hungarian family-run distillery wins “Distillery of the Year” award

Árpád Classic Gin distillery of the year

After an amazing success at the annual London Spirits Competition, Árpád Pálinka Manufacture impressed the jury in the US. The three gold medals are testaments of outstanding taste, quality, excellent value for money, and stylish packaging.

Árpád Pálinka Manufacture secures the ‘Distillery of the Year’ award

Turizmus writes that at the USA Spirits Ratings international competition, the Hungarian family-run distillery Árpád Pálinka Manufacture stood out among entries from 40 countries, earning the prestigious “Distillery of the Year” award. Renowned for its outstanding quality, excellent value for money, and eye-catching packaging, Árpád Pálinka Manufacture’s three entries each secured gold medals. In addition to this, the distillery received the “Best Spirit by Package” and “Fruits Distillate of the Year” titles, solidifying its reputation on the global stage.

Árpád Classic Gin distillery of the year
Source: FB / Árpád Pálinka

As we wrote HERE before, this is not Árpád Gin’s first time at the rodeo. At the annual London Spirits Competition, the Árpád Classic Gin was praised for its innovative and fresh taste.

Árpád Paprika Gin
Source: FB / Árpád Pálinka

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Hungarian swimmer disinfected with pálinka after finishing 5th in women’s 10km marathon swim in the Seine – VIDEOS

Hungarian swimmer disinfected with pálinka

Miraculously, the 19-year-old swimmer could finish 5th in the women’s 10km marathon swim in the Seine at the Paris Olympic Games today. Afterwards, Bettina Fábián disinfected with pálinka, the traditional Hungarian spirit. Have you ever tasted pálinka?

The Hungarian swimmer prepared in the River Danube

Bettina Fábián did not swim yesterday in the Seine because she did not want to risk an infection in the polluted water. French authorities said yesterday that the bacteria level of the river decreased below the limit.

Betti said before her swimming that her training was successful, but she was afraid of the Seine, the currents in the river, etc.

Hungarian swimmer disinfected with pálinka
Photo: MTI

She said the water was not as dirty as she thought, and currents made swimming hard. Downstream times were around 7.5 minutes, while upstream increased to 13.5 minutes.

 

A bejegyzés megtekintése az Instagramon

 

Betty Fabian (@bettiifabian) által megosztott bejegyzés

Swimmers needed to complete six rounds, and since Betti trained in the Danube, turns were better for her than for the others. Therefore, she could advance in each turn. Moreover, she stored her energy better, so in the end, she could finish in the 5th position.

She disinfected with pálinka after the contest

Betti was the second youngest among the winners and said training in the Danube helped her the most because currents could not carry her away most of the time. “I think this is a very good result on my first Olympics”, she concluded, and we can only agree with her.

The last metres of her swim:

After she got out of the water, she disinfected with some pálinka sips, the traditional Hungarian spirit. Then she drank Coca-Cola.

Here is the video (the Hungarian Swimming Association wrote below the video that they did not support alcohol consumption):

Congratulations, Betti!

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The best Hungarian souvenirs to bring home to your loved ones!

Memories of Hungary store Hungarian souvenirs

After spending some delightful days in Hungary, you might want to take home a piece of the country to cherish the memories you have made here. Perhaps you want to share the culture with your loved ones at home. When visiting Hungary, several unique and culturally rich souvenirs make perfect gifts for friends and family. Here are some of the best Hungarian souvenirs!

Hungarian paprika

Hungary is renowned for its high-quality paprika, a staple in Hungarian cuisine. If you have had the opportunity to try some delicious traditional dishes, you must have experienced its distinctive flavour. We cannot imagine goulash, stew and other local delicacies without paprika. You can find it in various forms, such as sweet, hot or smoked, often packaged in decorative tins or bags. Whether you are buying paprika for cooking or as a decorative item, it makes one of the best Hungarian souvenirs.

Red pepper paprika hungaricum
Photo: Pixabay

Bring home the national spirit

What could be better than buying a bottle of wine or spirit to share with your friends and family? A bottle of wine from the Tokaj wine region is an excellent choice. This famous Hungarian dessert wine, often referred to as the “Wine of Kings, King of Wines,” is a sweet treat that showcases Hungary’s rich winemaking tradition.

However, if you prefer something stronger, Hungarian pálinka is sure to impress. This traditional brandy can be made from almost any fruit, such as plums, apricots or pears. It often comes in beautifully decorated bottles, adding an extra touch. If you are worried about bringing these liquids on board, you can buy them at the Memories of Hungary shop at the airport.

Hungarian souvenirs
Source: Pixabay

Hungarian cookbooks

For those who enjoy cooking, a Hungarian cookbook is a great way to bring home the flavours of Hungary. These books often include traditional recipes for dishes like goulash, paprikash and chimney cake. This way, you can recreate these traditional dishes and enjoy a taste of Hungary at home.

Hungarian goulash soup - Hungarian souvenirs
Source: pixabay

Further Hungarian souvenirs

If you prefer a safe option when choosing Hungarian souvenirs, you can always get a colourful magnet to decorate your fridge. Even in the touristy areas of Budapest, you can find inexpensive ones. However, keep in mind that magnets might be significantly more expensive at the airport.

Additionally, you can buy items such as tablecloths, pillowcases or clothing featuring traditional Hungarian embroidery. Matyó and Kalocsa folk art are among the most popular and beautiful, with their unique and intricate patterns. Hungarian souvenirs that reflect the country’s cultural richness make excellent gifts!

Hungarian souvenirs
Source: Pixabay

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5 fun facts about the Hungarian pálinka

Hungarian pálinka

The Hungarian pálinka is a fruit spirit with a rich history and fascinating characteristics. Whether you are a fan of fruit brandies or just interested in exploring different cultural beverages, pálinka offers an insight into Hungary’s soul. Here are some interesting facts you might not have known about this special alcoholic beverage.

Variety of fruits and regions

Hungarian pálinka can be made from a variety of fruits including apricots, plums, apples, pears, cherries, and quinces. Each type of fruit gives the pálinka a distinct flavour and aroma. In addition, each region in Hungary has its own style and flavour characteristics. Specific fruits may be more popular in a certain region than in others.

pálinka
Source: Wikimedia Commons/T.MESE

Protected geographical indication

Pálinka enjoys a protected geographical indication (PGI) status within the European Union, which means that only fruit brandies produced in Hungary and four specific regions of Austria (Burgenland, Lower Austria, Styria, and Vienna) using traditional methods can be labelled as pálinka. This protection aims to preserve the authenticity and heritage of the drink, similar to how “Champagne” can only refer to sparkling wine from the Champagne region of France. The PGI status ensures that pálinka maintains its high quality and traditional production methods, safeguarding it from imitations.

The rich history of Hungarian pálinka

Hungarian pálinka has a storied history that stretches back to the Middle Ages. The first written documentation of pálinka, referred to as “Aqua vitae reginae Hungariae” (the water of life of the Queen of Hungary), dates back to 1332. This early reference highlights the long-standing tradition of distillation in Hungary. Historically, Hungarian pálinka was not only enjoyed for its flavour but was also valued for its perceived medicinal properties. Over the centuries, pálinka evolved from a medicinal tonic into a beloved national spirit.

A medical remedy?

Speaking of healing powers… Hungarian pálinka was often used as a home remedy for various ailments. This belief can be traced back to the early use of distilled spirits in Europe, where they were commonly referred to as “aqua vitae” or “water of life.” It is believed that pálinka is a digestive aid, a remedy for colds, an antiseptic and an effective pain relief. While modern medicine has largely replaced these traditional uses, some Hungarians still swear by the medical benefits of pálinka, particularly as a digestif.

Fun festivals and competitions

Pálinka is celebrated through various festivals and competitions across Hungary, highlighting its cultural significance and the craftsmanship behind its production. These events offer an excellent opportunity for locals and tourists to experience the rich variety of pálinka and learn more about its history and production methods. You can find the most famous pálinka festivals in Budapest and Gyula. In some cases, pálinka festivals come hand in hand with sausage festivals in Hungary, so you will not be hungry either!

These festivals are not just about tasting; they often include cultural programmes, music, dance, and food, providing a comprehensive cultural experience. Competitions held during these festivals help maintain high standards within the industry by recognising and rewarding excellence in pálinka production.

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Here are Hungary’s best pálinkas

The best Hungarian pálinkas

Each country has its national spirit. But original pálinka can only be produced in Hungary from Hungarian fruits. Hungary’s agriculture ministry chose the best Hungarian pálinkas this week. Provided you want to drink some traditional Hungarian and delicious spirit, you should try the products of these pálinka houses since they have been chosen as the best ones in Hungary.

According to origo.hu, the Ministry of Agriculture began the National Pálinka Excellence Program in 2020. “During the Program, the pálinkas were selected from the colourful collection of the pálinka houses, which thanks to their high quality, deservedly represent the sector”, the program’s official website wrote. You may find all the Hungarian pálinka houses HERE in an alphabetic order.

Only those pálinka houses can partake in the excellence program which produce at least the following subcategories of the spirit: uince, Williams pear, sour cherry, apricot, plum, and grape.

The program aims to promote traditional and quality Hungarian pálinkas in Hungary and abroad. There are five categories in which the judging committee decide which products are the best: Pálinka and Grape marc pálinka, gin, distillates, and liqueurs.

The best Hungarian pálinkas

The Ministry of Agriculture created the Pálinka of the Ministry of Agriculture in 2019. They are chosen from the pálinkas of excellence and top pálinkas of excellence. In 2023, 21 pálinka houses and 117 products competed. 48 of them received excellence and 16 TOP excellence certifications.

The most successful pálinka house is the Árpád Pálinkaház since they got four TOP excellence and four excellence promotions. NÉBIH’s pálinka became the Lunczer pálinka house’s premium apricot pálinka. Meanwhile, the Pálinka of the Ministry of Agriculture became 1 Csepp Pálinkaház’s Apricot Aurum pálinka.

Not sure about Christmas gifts? These top-quality Hungarian pálinkas might be your best choice.

Read also:

  • 5+1 Hilarious Hungarian stereotypes – true or nah?
  • Check out the best Hungarian pálinka of 2022 in THIS article

Government: Ukraine’s EU entry would bring ‘drastic changes’ for Hungarian farm sector

Ukraine’s EU accession would bring with it “drastic changes” for Hungary’s agriculture sector, the head of the National Agriculture Chamber (NAK) said on Friday.

Balazs Gyorffy told MTI that the addition of an agricultural area equalling roughly a third of the EU’s territory would fundamentally upset the current farming support and food security system.

Ukraine today is in no way fit to join the EU, Gyorffy said, adding that it was impossible to predict the consequences of the country’s EU membership for the European and Hungarian farm sectors.

Gyorffy said Ukraine could not even meet the criteria set for EU farmers and food producers. He said that Ukraine potentially not having to meet those conditions or adhere to the relevant laws would distort competition in the sector.

He said the suggestion that Ukraine could be admitted to the EU through a simplified accession process was unfair to the countries that had been striving to meet the bloc’s strict criteria for several years or even decades. Referring to the Balkans, Gyorffy said those countries had been making strenuous efforts to fulfil the criteria set by Brussels.

“Applying different rules of procedure and principles to the accession of certain member states would destroy the credibility of the functioning of the EU,” he said.

Ministry: Natural environment improves on 180,000 hectares under KEHOP

Natural environment quality has improved on 180,000 hectares in Hungary with the help of 101 projects supported with some 39 billion forints (EUR 102m) worth of funding under the EU’s the KEHOP operative programme for environmental and energy development, the agriculture ministry’s state secretary for nature protection said on Friday.
Utilisation of funds under the framework’s current cycle coming to a close has been 107.5 percent, Andras Racz said, adding that two-thirds of the projects were aimed at the rehabilitation of habitat and the rest at the rehabilitation of wetland.

He noted that over 21 percent of Hungary’s territory, 2 million hectares, is protected Natura 2000 area and more than 9 percent, about 850,000 hectares, is a protected natural area of national importance. “This is a good ratio compared with other European countries, but continued intervention is still required since those areas are fragmented,” said Racz.

Hungary’s national parks attract on average 1.6 million visitors per year, 500,000 of whom visit sites with caves, Racz said. The country has two Global Geoparks listed by UNESCO and 4,000 caves, he said.

There is a huge international demand for Hungarian fruit

Hungary market Békéscsaba

Hungary’s sour cherry season has commenced, and the early varieties are being picked. The National Chamber of Agriculture (Nemzeti Agrárgazdasági Kamara – NAK) and FruitVeB, the Hungarian Fruit and Vegetable Interbranch Organisation and Product Council (Magyar Zöldség-Gyümölcs Szakmaközi Szervezet és Terméktanács), highlights that this year’s harvest promises high-quality, juicy produce.

Hungary is the third largest producer of sour cherries in Europe. Their unique taste, flavor, and nutritional value make these fruits highly sought after abroad, writes Agrotrend.

Domestic production

The harvesting of early sour cherry varieties has recently begun. In the coming weeks, Hungarian sour cherries will continue to appear in shops and markets. The sour cherry harvest typically begins in the Danube-Tisza area and concludes in the Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg region. This year, sour cherries are cultivated on 13,000 hectares in Hungary, with the largest production areas found in Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg, Heves, Pest, Győr-Moson-Sopron and Bács-Kiskun counties.

On average, the annual sour cherry yield reaches around 60 thousand tonnes. Experts predict a near-average quantity this year, despite challenges such as spring frosts, inclement weather during the flowering period, and temperature fluctuations during fruit set. While these factors have led to a significant reduction in crop setting, the remaining fruit is larger in size. This will result in a national harvest that may be only 15-20 percent lower than last year. The increased use of crop protection measures has helped mitigate the damage caused by moniliaceous infestation.

Based on a survey conducted by the National Chamber of Agriculture and FruitVeB, the most extensively cultivated sour cherry varieties in Hungary include Érdi bőtermő, Újfehértói bürtös, Debreceni bőtermő and Kántorjánosi.

International export

The average domestic consumption of sour cherries ranges from 10,000 to 15,000 tonnes per year. In addition to fresh sour cherries, preserves are also highly popular and available throughout the year on store shelves. Hungarian-bred sour cherry varieties, known for their excellent flavour, are in great demand in the German market. A significant portion of domestic sour cherries, typically 60-80 percent, end up abroad, predominantly in Germany. A considerable amount is used for cherry preserves.

In general, Hungarian sour cherries find applications in various industries, including canning, refrigeration (frozen), juice production, fresh markets, drying and pálinka production, among others.

5+1 Hilarious Hungarian stereotypes – true or nah?

pálinka, Hungary, drink

As with any other country, we Hungarians are also subject to a fair share of cultural stereotypes. While some of these are painfully correct, others are comically far from reality. We asked foreigners to name a couple of Hungarian stereotypes to catch a glimpse of how the rest of the world views us.

1. We wear our hearts on our sleeves

Forget Nordic or British politeness, we are pretty direct when asked for advice or opinion. Unsolicited or not, we’re all about cutting to the chase, no matter if we’ve known you since high school or just shared our very first pálinka shot in the local pub. Some might call it blunt, but that’s just how we roll. Why beat around the bush? Just spit it out (not the pálinka though, that’s too precious) and move on with your life.

2. We commute on horseback to work

Horses, our historical comrades, and brothers-in-arms, have long played an important role in our cultural heritage. While the Hungarian countryside boasts more horses than a Shakespearean play, the scent of horse dung is lost on many urban kids living in Budapest or larger rural cities. 

3. Every Hungarian man sports a moustache 

Once upon a time, Hungarian men flaunted imperial moustaches, sculpted with pork lard. Alas, those days are gone, with the older generation now clean-shaven and younger chaps opting for beards (sans the hipster flair). So, those visiting Hungary looking for the moustached men of their dreams need to adjust their expectations. 

4. We can’t live without goulash 

That’s actually pretty spot-on. Who can turn down a steamy plate of this hearty traditional delicacy? Goulash is definitely a key part of Hungarian culture. However, that’s not the only national dish we’re proud of, nor do we eat it day and night. Hungary has a rich foodie scene, especially for meat lovers and folks big on spicy, garlicky dishes.

5. Our public fountains pump pálinka instead of water

Well, we wish it was true, especially with the recent crazy price hikes and our poorly performing national currency. Sadly, it remains just one of those far-fetched Hungarian stereotypes that spread about us abroad. However, even when things are tight, you can be sure that there is a bottle of homemade pálinka stashed in the pantry for rainy days in every Hungarian home.

5+1 A country of champion complainers 

When we have a crappy day, we don’t just stew – we vent, loudly and proudly. Hungarians are known to be quite pessimistic and negative, they don’t shy away from airing their grievances to the world. Having said that, this bad habit also fuels our wicked sense of humour, which can take the darkest shades you can imagine. We can all agree that the popular saying “Hungarians make merry while in tears” actually holds true. 

 

Hungarian pálinka for free at Budapest Airport!

Pálinka Budapest Airport

Agrármarketing Centrum started a promotion campaign for foreigners at the Budapest Airport today. They offer everybody a sip of pálinka, Hungary’s world-famous national spirit.

According to the institution’s statement, you may find their stands in the Heinemann Duty-Free Skycourt. Furthermore, you can even buy a bottle provided you like the taste. Agrármarketing Centrum believes the airport is ideal to popularise pálinka since they can meet thousands of people.

The campaign started today and will last until 31 March. The dates are the following:

  • 3-5 March 10 AM – 10 PM
  • 10-12 March 10 AM – 10 PM
  • 17-19 March 10 AM – 10 PM, and
  • 26-26 March 10 AM – 10 PM.

The stands will offer four flavours.

Protected as a geographical indication of the European Union, only fruit spirits mashed, distilled, matured and bottled in Hungary and similar apricot spirits from four provinces of Austria can be called “pálinka”. The drink has to contain at least 37.5 percent alcohol. It cannot be flavoured, sweetened or coloured. Flavours may only be “added” by ageing pálinka on different fruit beds. Pálinka has been a hungaricum since 2013.

Here is the famous Hungarian pálinka song:

5+1 intoxicatingly funny pálinka jokes

pálinka, Hungary, drink

Hungarians traditionally toast with pálinka when the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve. Nothing sets the mood like a couple of shots of this famous Hungarian fruit brandy. If you want to liven up the night or get the approval of your Hungarian friends/in-laws, we get you covered with the funniest puns and jokes about pálinka. This collection is guaranteed to crack you up, regardless if you are sober or not. 

  1. How can you tell the time with pálinka? If you jug down one shot every minute, then you can be sure a quarter-hour has passed by the time you get to the 15th glass.
  2. An old Transylvanian farmer is being interviewed by a reporter. 
    • Uncle George, would you be so kind to walk us through your average day here in the village? 
    • Of course, my son. Well, I wake up in the morning. I have some bacon for breakfast and pour myself a couple of pálinka shots to come alive..
    • Hold on a sec, we can’t put this in print. It’s best if you say you read a couple of pages when you wake up. 
    • All right. So when I hear my stomach growling, I tumble out of bed and stumble to the kitchen to chew on some paprikash bacon while reading a couple of pages of my favourite book. Then I go to work in the fields. Around noon, I suddenly get a real thirst for wisdom, so I usually read a couple of pages again. I often get dizzy from all that newly acquired knowledge, so I take a nap. When I wake up, I shovel in a half loaf of bread with some sausages and red onions and head to the library to see my mates. Uncle Steve is usually there since morning. We read together until midnight when the library closes and then we pop by Jimmy’s because that old bastard even owns a printing house.
  3. Two Hungarian guys among each other:
    • Dude, where is that dope beanie hat with the ear flaps you were rocking last time? 
    • I chucked it away. 
    • Too bad, I wanted to borrow it. Why did you bin it? 
    • You don’t want that hat bro. I had an accident the last time I was wearing it.
    • Huh? 
    • Yeah, take it from me. It’s cursed!
    • But what the hell happened?
    • Someone offered me a shot of plum pálinka and I didn’t hear it because of that damn hat covering my ears..

Read more: 10 funny Hungarian dos and don’ts for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day

4. Two alcoholics decide to go camping. As they set out on the trip, one turns to the other:

  • Yo, I brought a bottle of homemade pálinka in case we step on a rusty nail and need to disinfect the wound. What did you bring, bro? 
  • Two rusty nails. 

5. Two flatmates have a discussion:

  • Hey, I can’t find that bottle of homemade cherry pálinka we got from our next-door neighbour. Do you happen to know where it is?
  • It’s all gone. I had to use it to disinfect a wound. It was kind of an emergency.
  • But with 2 liters? 
  • It was a deep emotional wound.

+1 A little boy is standing at the corner with his back leaning towards the traffic light pole. He is taking massive gulps from a bottle of pálinka. An old lady passes by and seeing the boy, she burst out, outraged. 

  • For God’s sake, shouldn’t you be at school? 
  • But Ma’am, I’m only 5!
pálinka Freddy Mercury
Freddy Mercury at People’s Stadium (Puskás Stadium) in 1986
meme
Photo: www.memegenerator.net

Read more: Pálinka in Hungarian folk medicine

Check out the best Hungarian pálinka of the year!

When we talk about pálinka, thanks to the work of commercial pálinka distilleries, we can now think of a high-quality, real gastronomic speciality. It is one of the outstanding products of our nation and one of our Hungaricums. Márton Nobilis, Minister of State for Food Industry and Trade Policy of the Ministry of Agriculture, said this at the Awards Gala Evening of the National Pálinka Excellence Programme in Budapest.

National Pálinka Excellence Programme

The State Secretary recalled that the Ministry first announced the programme in 2014, Agrárszektor reports. The aim was to make quality Hungarian pálinka known and recognised on the domestic and foreign markets. According to Márton Nobilis, this year’s National Pálinka Excellence Programme was announced in the autumn. 16 pálinka houses entered a total of 103 entries.

He added that the figures also show that despite the pandemic and the difficult economic situation caused by Russia’s war in Ukraine, the programme is becoming increasingly popular among commercial chefs.

The results and the winner

Based on the opinion of the professional jury, 67 entries from 13 pálinka houses finally qualified for the Excellence Programme. Of these, 49 entries got the Pálinka excellence and 18 entries the TOP Pálinka excellence.

Following the success of previous years, this year, the jury selected the Ministry of Agriculture’s pálinka out of the TOP pálinka excellences. Lunczer Pálinka House’s entry of sour cherry pálinka won this title in 2022. It is a family-run distillery in the village of Kosd. The family founded it in the year of the establishment of the National Pálinka Excellence Programme. The award-winning drink is the fruit of years of high quality work, learning and experimentation.

“There is one thing that has not changed over the years and through the many changes. That is the Hungarian people’s love of pálinka,” concluded Márton Nobilis.

Read alsoCheck out these strange Hungarian superstitions!

Even pálinka is getting more expensive in Hungary

pálinka, Hungary, drink

In addition to other local businesses, commercial distilleries are also struggling with the rise in energy prices. However, the surge in expenses is not the only deteriorating factor but also the boom in corner distilleries is making the situation worse. As a result, the price of one of Hungary’s curiosities, pálinka, is also rising. Traders promise not to increase prices more than necessary.

Hungarian pálinka is facing mounting issues

Some of the pálinka distilleries represented by the National Pálinka Council (PNT) have not bought fruit. There are several reasons for this. Some distilleries closed down or reduced their production during the pandemic. For these distilleries, there may be a significant stock of fruit. There are also others where Covid-19 and the recent economic difficulties have had such a severe impact that the orchards do not have a sufficient budget to purchase fruit.

According to László Mihályi, President of the National Council of Pálinka, “the breweries that buy fruit are doing so because their pálinka brewed from the fruit is popular or because they want to launch a new product on the market.” For this reason, some breweries have bought raspberries, blackcurrants and blackberries this year, in addition to apricots. Traditional ingredients such as plums, quince, cherries, gypsy melon and apples were also popular.

The impact of the energy crisis is being felt strongly in the hospitality sector. Many restaurants and hotels are closing permanently or temporarily due to rising energy prices. The future of the pálinka sector is also uncertain, which has an impact on fruit purchases. Another issue is that the purchase price of fruit is also increasing, by roughly 25-35 percent, but in some places, it has even reached the 50 percent threshold.

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The price of pálinka is rising

The cost rises in cookery are also reflected in prices. According to Mihályi, there was a wide variation in the cost increases of the cookers. The good news is that the PNT believes that the increase in pálinka would not exceed a critical level, vg.hu reports. Pálinka distilleries are fully at the mercy of the market.

Ukrainian factories supply 30 percent of Hungarian glass. Two glass factories were hit during the fights. There are also difficulties with taxes and compulsory fees. All these negative factors together justify a price increase of roughly 40 percent. This 40 percent increase has been applied to most food products. However, the price increase will not be as significant for pálinka, as it would lead to a drastic drop in purchasing power, index.hu reports.

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4 simply delicious Hungarian recipes with pálinka

4 simply delicious Hungarian recipes with pálinka - lamb shank

While we like to gulp down a shot of homemade plum or apricot pálinka every now and then, we know that this traditional Hungarian brandy is fantastic for more than drinking. Apart from keeping you warm on the chillier autumn days, it also makes cooking more fun! Meaty main courses, hearty local classics and even desserts can be enhanced with a few drops of pálinka, which builds flavour and depth into the dish. So pop open a bottle of your favourite style (like you needed an excuse) and get down to cooking. These delicious Hungarian recipes will blow your mind and your tastebuds.

Garlic lamb shanks with apple purée and speck-wrapped potatoes

Lamb shanks are considered the king of all lamb cuts. Although not the most popular meat in Hungarian cuisine, lamb has long been the favourite in dishes all around the world, especially in the Mediterranean. Apple purée is a classic side that goes perfectly with the tender meat while the speck-wrapped potatoes will make everyone happy around the table. See the original recipe HERE.

4 simply delicious Hungarian recipes with pálinka - lamb shank
Source: www.palinka.com

Ingredients:

800 g boneless lamb shank

2 garlic cloves

salt

freshly ground pepper

1 big red onion

5 g caraway

80 g pig fat (preferably made of mangalica)

 400 g red apples

1/2 lemon

2 tbsp honey

20 ml pálinka (shingled-leaf, apple or the style of your choice)

cinnamon

600g potatoes

12 pieces of sliced speck

Instructions: 

  • Preheat the oven to 350F/180C
  • Form the lamb shank into similar-sized pieces and lard it with sliced garlic cloves
  • Tie the meat with a cord to make it cook more evenly
  • Sprinkle it with salt and pepper
  • Pre-cook it in a frying pan until brown all over
  • Place it in the oven and bake it until tender while pouring the dish gravy on it multiple times so it will not dry out
  • Prepare the potatoes, pre-cook them, wrap a slice of speck around each and bake them in the oven until tender
  • Peel and cook the apples and flavour them with cinnamon, honey and a pinch of salt
  • Once cooked (remove the excess juice), purée them and add some pálinka
  • Serve the lamb shank with a piece of speck-wrapped potato and two tbsp of apple puree
  • You can also decorate the plate with additional apple slices

Read more: 4 delicious sweet and savoury plum recipes for the autumn season – PHOTOS

Strudel with goose liver pâté

Goose liver pâté is an iconic dish in Hungarian cuisine, and locals swear it beats the French foie gras a million times. This traditional delicacy combined with the flaky, savoury strudel is just what you crave this time of the year. Take a bite of this wholesome dish and let all your cares melt away. The original recipe can be accessed HERE.

4 simply delicious Hungarian recipes with pálinka - gooseliver
Source: www.szilvasgombockonyhaja.hu

Ingredients:

500-600 g goose liver

1 big apple

1 big red onion

a bouquet of chives

20 ml apple pálinka

salt

 ground white pepper

300 ml milk

5 garlic cloves

1 package of phyllo dough

bread crumbs

Instructions:

  • Soak the goose liver in garlic milk overnight in the fridge
  • Preheat the oven to 392F/200C
  • Dry the liver and remove the bigger veins
  • Slice the red onion and cut the apple into cubes
  • Cut the liver into cubes as well, roast them in a Teflon frying pan in its own fat
  • Add the onion, salt and pepper
  • Once done, place the liver in a strainer to get rid of the excess fat
  • Pour the apple cubes into the same frying pan
  • Add salt, pepper and pálinka and braise them until the alcohol evaporates
  • Grease the phyllo dough with a bit of melted oil and sprinkle it with bread crumbs
  • Place the ragout on the dough and roll it up evenly while sprinkling it with chopped chives
  • Brush the top of the dough with egg yolk to make it shiny and brown
  • Bake it for 20-25 minutes
  • Serve the strudel by sprinkling it with chopped chives

Tiramisu with apple pálinka

A creamy dessert with pálinka-soaked ladyfingers surrounded by lightly sweetened whipped cream and a rich mascarpone, this superb Hungarian-style tiramisu will be the go-to snack at every dinner party. The flavours will mingle nicely thanks to the brandy. Check out the original recipe HERE.

4 simply delicious Hungarian recipes with pálinka - tiramisu
Source: www.palinkamuzeumvisegrad.hu

Ingredients:

8 pieces of ladyfingers

75 ml apple or quince pálinka

200 ml apple juice

250 g mascarpone

1 packet of vanilla sugar

150 ml cream (sour cream)

 3 apples

juice of 1/2 lemon

50 g butter

100 g sugar

cinnamon

100 g roasted walnuts

Instructions:

  • Roast the walnuts in a dry frying pan, then let them cool
  • Cut the apples into small cubes and pour the lemon juice over
  • Heat up the butter in a pan, add the sugar and let it melt
  • Add the apples, sprinkle them with cinnamon and let them simmer for a while
  • Let the mixture cool down
  • Meanwhile, mix the mascarpone with the vanilla sugar, 100 ml of apple juice and the whisked sour cream
  • Break the ladyfingers into small pieces and pour the pálinka and the remaining apple juice onto them
  • Take a cup and layer the ingredients by starting with the ladyfinger and following with the mascarpone cream, the apple cubes and the roasted walnuts
  • If the cup is big enough, we can create more layers

Chocolate muffin with apricot pálinka

Calling all chocoholics! These mega-chocolate-y muffins, loaded with chocolate chips in every single bite, are scrumptious. A perfect comfort food now that the summer days are over, this rich dessert is guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser. Find the original recipe HERE.

4 simply delicious Hungarian recipes with pálinka - chocolate muffin
Source: www.palinkamuzeumvisegrad.hu

Ingredients:

150 g wheat flour

2 tsp baking powder

100 g sugar

1 packet vanilla sugar

3 eggs

 2 tbsp milk

50 ml apricot pálinka

150 g dark chocolate

100 g butter

Instructions:

  • Preheat oven to 356F/180C
  • Break 100 g of chocolate into small pieces and melt them with the butter in a pan, let the mixture cool down
  • Mix together the dough ingredients and add them to the cooled-down chocolate mixture
  • Add the apricot pálinka and mix well
  • Crash the remaining chocolate into tiny pieces, or just simply use store-brought chocolate chips, and add them to the mixture
  • Pour the mixture into a muffin pan and bake it for 20-25 mins
  • Let the muffins cool down in the pan before serving them
  • Suggestion: we can use sweeter styles as well (blueberry, raspberry or strawberry) instead of the apricot pàlinka

Read more: Sweet moments! Try these unforgettable recipes flavoured with Tokaj Aszú

Funny don’ts when you meet a Hungarian for the first time

Are you an expat living in Hungary or a visitor who would like to make new Hungarian friends? Here are some funny don’ts you should be aware of when you meet a Hungarian for the first time. 😉

Don’t give hugs or kisses

The majority of Hungarians insist on keeping distance during the first encounter. When introducing yourself in Hungary, shake hands and look into the other’s eyes while articulating your name. During the first meeting, don’t hug and don’t give kisses on the face. If your relationship is going well, it will soon be time for a more intimate greeting. But the first meeting is still the gateway to building trust with a Hungarian.

Don’t say that Hungary’s capital is Bucharest

Make sure you know well the name of the Hungarian capital. Hungarians are very proud of Budapest, which is by the way, one of the most beautiful destinations in Europe. Therefore, it is understandable that many Hungarian get pissed off when foreigners are not aware of the capital’s proper name. Remember: the capital of Hungary is Budapest! This way you won’t make the same mistake as some American media channels, mixing up the Romanian capital (Bucharest) with Budapest.

Don’t talk about politics

Similarly to other nations, politics is a sensitive issue in Hungary as well. Therefore, it is not recommended to reveal your political reviews or start a discussion about politics during your first encounter with a Hungarian. You should rather start the conversation about the delicious Hungarian gastronomy, the wonderful tourist attractions, and other pleasant topics on which agreement is guaranteed. Political views are recommended to be discussed later, when the trust is stronger between you and differences of opinion are not able to ruin the relationship.

Read also: Stereotypes that characterise Hungarians

Don’t refuse pálinka

If the first meeting is informal, you will probably be offered a shot of pálinka at the entrance. In no case should you refuse this noble gesture. In addition to the mood-boosting effect of the delicious hungarikum, the Hungarian spirit also has curative and antiseptic effects when consumed in moderate quantities. If you feel like the second and third rounds are too much for you, of course you can say no, but you should definitely try a pint of it as it is a bucket list speciality in Hungary.

Don’t criticise the country or the nation

Like many other nations, Hungarians have a very strong national consciousness. Therefore, it is not recommended to start the first conversation with a Hungarian with a critical attitude. At the beginning, it is worth emphasising the positives things you experienced in Hungary. If you have had a negative experience – which might occur as Hungarians are not perfect either – you save it for later when the trust is stronger between you and critics are not taken personally.

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Hungarian pálinka saved a suicidal woman’s life!

Pálinka

A woman was trying to commit suicide together with her roommate, but her life was saved by drinking pálinka. Now, she is being charged for participation in suicide. 

Planned suicide

The accused in her sixties shared a room with the victim in a rest home in Somogy county, Hungary, as index.hu reports. As the roommates felt equally hopeless, they decided to end their lives together.

In October 2019, they went to a gas station where they bought antifreeze. After that, they went home and both of them drank the toxic liquid. However, one of the women also drank two deciliters of pálinka before going to sleep.

As 24.hu says, the antifreezer was the idea of the accused.

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Pálinka saved her life

Despite professional care in the hospital, the victim’s life could not be saved. However, the poison of the antifreezer did not have a deadly effect on the other woman.

Due to the consumed alcohol, the antifreeze was absorbed in lower concentrations in her body. If she had not drank pálinka, she would no longer be alive, either.

The Marcali District Prosecutor’s Office has indicted a woman who survived the poisoning in a joint suicide attempt, in which her friend died. In their indictment filed with the Marcali District Court, the prosecutor’s office filed a suspended prison sentence against the accused with no criminal record.

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