Cuisine

Croatian cuisine

Croatian cuisine is known for its fresh and simple flavors, often featuring seafood, grilled meats, and fresh vegetables. Popular dishes include crni rizot (black risotto made with squid ink), pasticada (a beef stew), and sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls). Croatian cuisine also features a variety of cheeses, such as sir iz mišine (a sheep's milk cheese) and paški sir (a cheese from the island of Pag). Bread is a staple of Croatian cuisine, with focaccia and other flatbreads being popular choices. Croatian desserts often feature fruit, such as figs and cherries.

European cuisine› Mediterranean cuisine› Balkan cuisine

Fresh, Simple, Light, Tangy

Grilling, Stewing, Baking, Frying, Sautéing

Typical ingredients

Seafood (such as squid, octopus, sardines), Beef, Pork, Lamb, Onions, Garlic, Peppers, Tomatoes, Potatoes, Beans, Cabbage, Carrots, Eggplant, Zucchini, Cheese, Bread, Figs, Cherries

Presentation and garnishing

Croatian dishes are often served family-style, with large platters of meat and vegetables. Garnishes may include fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and olive oil. Focaccia and other flatbreads may be served with a side of olive oil or cheese.

Croatian cuisine is known for its fresh and simple flavors, and is often made with locally sourced ingredients. The country is also known for its wine, with many local varieties available.

More cuisines from this region...

Greek cuisine, Serbian cuisine, Montenegrin cuisine, Macedonian cuisine, Kosovan cuisine, Bosnian cuisine, Albanian cuisine, Aromanian cuisine

History

Croatian cuisine has a long history, dating back to the Roman Empire. The cuisine has been influenced by Italian, Austrian, and Hungarian cuisine, as well as Mediterranean influences. Croatian cuisine has also been shaped by the country's geography, with coastal regions favoring seafood dishes and inland regions featuring more meat-based dishes.

Cultural significance

Croatian cuisine is an important part of the country's cultural heritage, and is often served at family gatherings and celebrations. The cuisine is also popular in neighboring countries, such as Slovenia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Wine is an important part of Croatian cuisine, with many local varieties available.

Health benefits and considerations

Croatian cuisine is generally high in protein and carbohydrates, and may be high in fat depending on the dish. Some traditional dishes may be high in sodium. Croatian cuisine also features a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, such as stuffed peppers and eggplant dishes.

Croatian cuisine dishes Browse all »

Varaždinski klipič

Varaždin Klipič

Varaždinski klipič is a traditional Croatian bread that is made with flour, yeast, and water. The bread is typically shaped into a crescent shape and is often served with...

Teletina ispod peke

Veal under the Bell

Teletina ispod peke is a traditional Croatian dish that is cooked under a bell-shaped lid over hot coals. The meat is marinated in a mixture of herbs and spices before being...

Braveća juha

Braveća soup

Braveća juha is a traditional Croatian soup made with beef and vegetables. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for cold winter days.

Mrkopaljski podmetaš

Croatian Bean Stew

Mrkopaljski podmetaš is a traditional Croatian potato and sausage stew that is made with smoked pork sausage, potatoes, and vegetables. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that...

Janjetina s ražnja

Croatian lamb on the spit

Janjetina s ražnja is a traditional Croatian lamb dish that is cooked on a spit over an open flame.

Viški hib

Viški hib is a traditional Croatian dish made from dried figs and almonds. It is a sweet and nutty dessert that is often served during the holiday season.