Hungarian food is referred to as Magyar konyha and is usually considered spicy by local standards. Many of the national dishes are prepared with lard or deep fried, and paprika, the national spice, is often used. The national dish is goulash, a thick stew laden with paprika. Meat is very popular throughout the country, with pork, beef and venison being the most common. A typical Hungarian meal will include soup, meat with potatoes, a side salad and dessert.