A Foodie’s Guide to Serbia: Savor the Balkan Flavors
If you’re reading this, it means that you are on a mission to explore Serbia’s culinary landscape, and let me tell you, you’re in for a treat! This charming Balkan nation serves up a feast for the senses, boasting an exciting food scene deeply steeped in history and tradition. It’s time to embark on a journey, where each meal will tell you a story about Serbia’s culture, regions, and the people who live there.
Breakfast in Serbia
Start your day like a true Serb by sampling some traditional breakfast dishes. A typical Serbian breakfast is hearty and rich, ensuring you’re fueled up for the day’s adventures.
Burek
This savory pastry, a remnant of the Ottoman rule, is a national favorite. Flaky layers of filo dough are filled with a variety of stuffings – cheese (sir), minced meat (meso), spinach (zeljanica), or even mushrooms (pecurke). Get it from a local bakery (pekara), and don’t forget to pair it with a glass of yogurt for the authentic experience.
Proja
Another breakfast staple is Proja – a traditional cornbread that’s slightly crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside. Proja is often eaten with a bit of kajmak (a creamy dairy product) or cheese on the side.
Serbian Street Food
The Serbian street food scene is bustling and offers many delights. These foods are perfect for grabbing on the go while exploring Serbia’s vibrant cities and towns.
Pljeskavica
Often referred to as the Serbian hamburger, Pljeskavica is a grilled dish made from spiced meat patty mixture of pork, beef and lamb. It’s typically served in a fluffy somun (local bread), with condiments such as kajmak, urnebes (spicy cheese spread), onions, ajvar (red pepper spread), and lettuce. The experience is incomplete without trying the ‘Leskovacka Pljeskavica’, named after the town of Leskovac, renowned for its spicy version.
Ćevapi
Ćevapi or Ćevapčići are small, oblong-shaped kebabs, usually served in portions of five or ten inside a somun, with raw onions and kajmak on the side. This dish is a must-try, especially if you find yourself in the capital city, Belgrade, where Ćevapi are particularly loved.
Traditional Serbian Meals
When it comes to sit-down meals in Serbia, the dishes are diverse, robust, and full of flavor. Whether you’re in a city restaurant or a rural homestead, these are the meals you don’t want to miss.
Karadjordjeva Schnitzel
Named after the leader of the First Serbian Uprising, Karadjordje, this dish is a rolled veal or pork steak, stuffed with kajmak, then breaded and fried. It is typically served with tartar sauce and a side of French fries or mashed potatoes. It’s a truly indulgent meal!
Sarma
Sarma, a dish of Turkish origin, has found its special place in Serbian cuisine. It consists of minced meat (usually pork), rice, and spices, wrapped in pickled cabbage leaves. These tasty parcels are then slow-cooked in a pot. Sarma is particularly popular in winter, especially during Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Serbian Desserts
After relishing Serbia’s savory delights, it’s time for some sweet indulgence. The country’s dessert repertoire is quite impressive.
Palačinke
Serbian pancakes, known as Palačinke, are thinner than American pancakes but thicker than French crêpes. They are usually rolled with fillings such as jam, Nutella, ground walnuts, or even cheese, and dusted with powdered sugar.
Baklava
Baklava, another Ottoman legacy, is made by layering thin filo pastry with nuts (usually walnuts, almonds, or pistachios), which is then soaked in sugar syrup or honey. Each bite offers a delightful crunch and sweetness.
Serbian Drinks
Let’s not forget about drinks! Serbia has an age-old tradition of brewing and distilling, and the drinks are an integral part of the Serbian dining experience.
Rakija
Rakija, a potent fruit brandy, is a Serbian national drink. It comes in many flavors, the most popular being šljivovica (made from plums), loza (grapes), kajsija (apricots), and dunja (quince). It’s often used for toasting at celebrations and is also considered a traditional Serbian welcome drink.
Serbian Coffee
In Serbia, coffee is not just a beverage – it’s a ritual. Serbian coffee, also known as domestic coffee or Turkish coffee, is unfiltered, thick, and strong. It’s usually served with a glass of water and a sweet treat on the side.
Vegan and Vegetarian Food in Serbia
While meat does feature prominently in Serbian cuisine, there are also several vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes to try out. Moreover, in recent years, Serbian cities have seen a rise in restaurants offering vegetarian and vegan menus.
Prebranac
Prebranac is a baked bean dish cooked with onions, paprika, and various herbs. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s also vegan-friendly. Prebranac is especially popular in winter, providing a warming, filling meal.
Ajvar
This versatile red pepper spread is made from roasted red bell peppers and garlic. It’s usually served as a relish with bread or meat dishes, but is also delicious on its own. Ajvar is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a great choice for a wide range of diets.
Pita Zeljanica
This savory spinach pie is another great option for vegetarians. Made with layers of filo pastry filled with spinach and cheese, it’s perfect as a snack or a light meal.
Markets and Food Shopping in Serbia
For a real taste of Serbia, don’t miss out on visiting a local food market. Here you can find fresh produce, local dairy products, homemade Rakija, and much more.
Zeleni Venac Market, Belgrade
This is one of the oldest and most popular markets in Belgrade. You can find a wide array of fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, and other Serbian delicacies. This market is a great place to observe the daily life of locals.
Bajloni Market, Belgrade
Known for its vibrant atmosphere, the Bajloni market is a must-visit. Aside from fresh produce, you can also find stalls selling homemade jams, honey, and the beloved Serbian drink – Rakija.
Serbian Food Festivals
Finally, if you really want to immerse yourself in the Serbian food scene, time your visit to coincide with one of the many food festivals.
Leskovac Grill Festival
This is the most famous food festival in Serbia, attracting food enthusiasts from all over the world. The festival is a celebration of grilled meat, with a special emphasis on Pljeskavica. Expect lively music, cheerful crowds, and a lot of delicious food.
The Days of Banica, Bela Palanka
This festival in the town of Bela Palanka is dedicated to Banica, a traditional Serbian pastry. During the festival, you can taste various types of Banica and learn about the traditional methods of preparing this beloved dish.
As you traverse the length and breadth of this beautiful country, remember that in Serbia, food is not just about sustenance. It is a celebration of their culture, heritage, and the abundant produce the land provides. So, get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey.