Embarking on a journey through the Balkans is not just a visual and cultural delight but also a culinary adventure. This region, rich in history and tradition, offers a unique blend of flavors influenced by Mediterranean, Ottoman, and Slavic cuisines. From hearty meats and savory pastries to sweet treats and fine wines, the Balkan gastronomy is sure to captivate your taste buds. Here’s a guide to the must-try foods during your Balkan tours.
A staple dish in many Balkan countries, Cevapi are small, finger-sized rolls of minced meat grilled to perfection. Typically served with freshly baked flatbread, chopped onions, and ajvar (a roasted red pepper spread), this dish is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
● Where to Try: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Montenegro.
● Best Pairing: A cold local beer or a glass of rakija (fruit brandy).
Cevapi-with-Lepinja bread
Ajvar is a versatile condiment made from roasted red peppers and eggplant, seasoned with garlic and olive oil. Its smoky and slightly sweet flavor complements meats, bread, and cheese.
● Where to Try: Macedonia is particularly famous for its ajvar.
● Pro Tip: Look for homemade ajvar at local markets for the freshest taste.
Ajvar
This flaky pastry filled with minced meat, cheese, or spinach is a breakfast and snack favorite across the Balkans. Each region has its own twist on the recipe, but all versions are equally delicious.
● Where to Try: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Turkey.
● Accompaniment: A cup of yogurt or ayran (a salty yogurt drink).
Burek – Bosnia and Herzegovina
Sarma is a comforting dish of cabbage leaves stuffed with a mixture of minced meat and rice, then slow-cooked in a tomato-based sauce. This hearty meal is a Balkan classic, especially during winter and festive occasions.
● Where to Try: Bulgaria, Serbia, and Romania.
● Fun Fact: Variations of sarma include grape leaves as wrappers, especially in the warmer months.
Sarma
Often referred to as the Balkan hamburger, Pljeskavica is a large, juicy patty made from a mix of ground meats, seasoned with spices, and grilled to smoky perfection. It is served with flatbread and an array of toppings like onions, ajvar, and kajmak (a creamy dairy spread).
● Where to Try: Serbia and Montenegro.
● Best Enjoyed: Fresh off the grill at a roadside eatery.
Pljeskavica – Balkan Burger
A refreshing blend of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and peppers topped with grated white cheese (similar to feta), Shopska Salad is a staple starter or side dish in the Balkans. Its vibrant colors reflect the Bulgarian flag, where the salad originates.
● Where to Try: Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Serbia.
● Drink Pairing: A glass of rakia enhances the salad’s flavors.
Shopska Salad
Not to be confused with the Middle Eastern flatbread, Balkan pita refers to a type of pie made with phyllo dough and filled with ingredients like potatoes, cheese, or pumpkin. It’s a versatile dish that can be sweet or savory.
● Where to Try: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, and Serbia.
● Sweet Variation: Try Tikvenik, a pumpkin-filled pita often enjoyed as a dessert.
Tikvenik – Pita (Pie)
This well-loved dessert of layered phyllo pastry, nuts, and honey or syrup traces its roots to the Ottoman Empire. It’s rich, sweet, and often infused with spices like cinnamon or cardamom.
● Where to Try: Turkey, Albania, and Greece.
● Pro Tip: Pair it with Turkish coffee for a traditional experience.
Baklava
For a quick and satisfying meal, nothing beats Souvlaki (skewered meat) or Gyros (meat wrapped in pita bread with tzatziki sauce and vegetables). These Greek specialties are popular street food options across the Balkans.
● Where to Try: Greece, particularly Athens and Thessaloniki.
● Budget Tip: Street vendors often offer the most authentic versions. Discover Greek Foods
Souvlaki and Gyros
A traditional Macedonian dish, Tavče Gravče consists of white beans baked with onions, peppers, and spices. It’s a simple yet flavorful meal often served with bread and sausage.
● Where to Try: North Macedonia.
● Best Time: During winter for a warm and hearty experience.
Tavče Gravče (Baked Beans)
With its Adriatic coastline, the Balkans offers an abundance of fresh seafood. Grilled fish, calamari, and seafood risotto are popular choices.
● Where to Try: Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania. Discover Adriatic sea foods book now
● Recommendation: Visit coastal towns like Dubrovnik and Kotor for the freshest catch.
Fish and Seafood
Indulge your sweet tooth with Balkan desserts like Tulumba (fried dough soaked in syrup), Krempita (custard slice), and Sutliash (rice pudding). Each country adds its own twist to these delightful treats.
● Where to Try: Available across the region, especially in bakeries and traditional restaurants.
Tulumba
No culinary journey is complete without sampling the local beverages. The Balkans are home to excellent wines and spirits:
● Rakija: A fruit brandy popular in Serbia, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia.
● Vranac Wine: A robust red wine from Montenegro.
● Macedonian Wines: Try Tikveš wines for a variety of flavors.
Wines and Spirits
Embark on a gastronomic adventure with Ajdinis Travel. Explore the rich flavors of the Balkans on our expertly curated tours, whether you’re savoring traditional dishes or discovering hidden culinary gems. Book your tour today and experience the authentic tastes of the Balkans firsthand!