Homemade bread, sarmale (cabbage rolls filled with minced meat, rice and spices, ed.n.), potato-based dishes and kurtoskalacs are among the local gastronomic symbols, according to an opinion poll conducted by the Harghita Intercommunity Development Association (Visit Harghita), in the context of preparations for 2027, when the county will hold the title of European Region of Gastronomy.
According to a press release sent to AGERPRES, the results reflect the voice of an active community that knows, values and passes on local traditions.
'According to the responses, homemade bread stands out as one of the strongest gastronomic symbols of the county. Other emblematic dishes include sarmale, potato-based dishes and traditional pork-based preparations, while kurtoskalacs clearly dominates desserts. As regards beverages, sparkling water and palinca are regarded as the most characteristic values of the county,' the quoted press release reads.
As 'culinary ambassadors,' tarragon soup, chicken soup and various types of sour soup were mentioned most frequently.
'Most respondents find traditional dishes to be healthy or acceptably healthy and prefer fine adjustments, more vegetables and lighter side dishes, rather than radically changing the recipes,' the aforementioned source says.
Among food-related customs, pig slaughtering proves to be the strongest shared element, followed by the preparation of sarmale for Christmas and blessing the food at Easter.
'The overall picture is clear: the gastronomy of Harghita County is based on strong identity, living traditions and shared values,' the press release concludes.
The survey was launched in December 2025 by the Harghita Intercommunity Development Association (Visit Harghita) with the aim of identifying the significance of authentic Harghita flavours for tourists and locals.
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