Romanian cuisine is a blend of various influences, including Turkish, Hungarian, and Slavic flavors. It features hearty dishes made from fresh ingredients, with a focus on meats, vegetables, and grains. Popular staples include mămăligă (cornmeal porridge), sarmale (cabbage rolls filled with meat and rice), and ciorbă (sour soup). Traditional meals often incorporate spices like dill and thyme, enhancing the rich flavors. Desserts such as cozonac (sweet bread) and papanasi (cheese doughnuts) are also common. Overall, Romanian cuisine reflects the country's agricultural heritage and diverse cultural influences.