11 Recipes From Croatia, Serbia, and Bosnia & Herzegovina
These are recipes from my blog and my fellow bloggers’ favorite recipes from Croatia, Serbia, and Bosnia & Herzegovina. Here, you will find a collection of Balkan classics that characterize the cuisine of the Slavic peoples from this part of Europe.
Southern European Balkan cuisine comprises numerous influences: from Turkish Ottoman to Austrian, German, and Hungarian, to Italian and Mediterranean. There is a plethora of dishes to be explored. Some recipes are common across all the countries, while others are distinct to a particular region.
Although this is a small sampling, I think you will find something to inspire you in the kitchen.
Sataraš {Croatian Stewed Tomato & Pepper Side Dish}
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Sataraš is a simple stewed medley of tomatoes, onions, and peppers with simple seasonings. It is a great way to use up produce that is approaching over-ripe territory and it pairs well with many dishes. My mother always served sataras with rice, often with an egg for breakfast or a light lunch.
Blitva | Croatian Chard & Potato Side Dish
Blitva is a hearty, flavorful concoction of smashed potatoes, garlic, and Swiss chard with olive oil, a perfect and versatile side dish. It can be served hot, warm, or cold. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, and if you’ve ever been to the Dalmatian coast, you have likely eaten blitva at a restaurant.
Bosnian Grah: Bean & Smoked Beef Stew
Grah is the quintessential Balkan peasant stew or soup. It’s always made with beans, root vegetables, and smoked meats. In Bosnia, it will be made with smoked beef, and my version uses a smoked beef sausage.
Croatian Grah: Bean & Smoked Pork Stew
This is my mother’s (and grandmother’s) recipe for grah using smoked pork ribs and beans. Croatian grah is always made with smoked pork. I make this frequently throughout the winter months, and it is truly a hearty and satisfying meal;.
Sarma (Stuffed Sour Cabbage Rolls)
Many versions of cabbage rolls exist in Slavic, Eastern, and Central European cuisines. The Croatian and Balkan way of using fermented whole cabbage leaves is the best in my opinon. The sourness of the cabbage paired with the smoky meats and hearty fillings, providing an excellent contrast and a special meal. We eat this on every special occasion and for major holidays like Christmas and Easter too.
Cevapi
A careless sausage that looks simple but actually invokes a lot of emotion. Chef’s guard their meat mixture and seasonings, keeping it a secret. This sausage is versatile and best made with a variety of meats: pork, lamb, beef, veal can all be used.
Pljeskavica (Serbian Burger)
A massive flat burger that is a popular street food across the Balkans. The seasoning makes for a distinct taste from other burgers.
Croatian Mlinci Baked Noodles Recipe
A truly unique baked noodle dish that everyone should really try making once. If you’re making a roasted chicken or turkey — add this delicious, savory side.
Burek Recipe
Layers of flaky pastry filled with savory meat or cheese—a Balkan comfort food that’s crispy, indulgent, and utterly satisfying. We traditionally eat this alongside thick and sour Balkan yogurt for dipping. Another recipe with many twists, variations, and arguments about who makes the best version.
Layered Honey Cake: Croatian Medena Pita
Sweet, sticky layers of honey-infused cake—a traditional Croatian dessert that’s both decadent and subtly sweet, perfect for a delightful treat.
Lepinja Bread | Somun | Croatian Flatbread
This is the bread that we serve with cevapi (soaked in grease) and put pljeskavica on. It’s a unique and distinct bun that is eaten across all countries.
German Recipes
My collection of traditional, authentic, and delicious German Recipes.
Hungarian Recipes
A growing collection of Hungarian Recipes.
Czech & Slovak Recipes
An often-ignored cuisine in the West, and it’s a shame! Check out my Czech and Slovak recipes too.
