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 »

Tagliata od boškarina na posteljici od rikule

Beef Tagliata with arugula

Tagliata od boškarina na posteljici od rikule is a traditional Croatian dish made with thinly sliced beef and a bed of arugula. The dish is known for its simplicity and bold flavors.

Zagrebački odrezak

Zagreb-style steak

Zagrebački odrezak is a traditional Croatian dish made with breaded pork or veal, stuffed with ham and cheese, and fried until crispy.

Vranske žabe

Frog Stew

Vranske žabe is a traditional Croatian dish made with frog legs that are cooked in a tomato-based sauce. It is a popular dish in the coastal regions of Croatia.

Rozata

Croatian caramel custard

Rozata is a traditional Croatian dessert that is similar to crème caramel. It is a custard-based dessert that is typically served chilled.

Maneštra od jačmika

Barley stew

Maneštra od jačmika is a traditional Istrian soup made with barley and vegetables. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for cold winter days.

Varaždinska pečenka

Roast Pork

Varaždinska pečenka is a traditional Croatian dish that consists of roasted pork stuffed with bacon, garlic, and parsley. The dish is typically served with roasted potatoes and...

Ravioli sa šparogama

Asparagus Ravioli

Ravioli sa šparogama is a traditional Croatian dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The dish is made with homemade ravioli pasta that is filled with a mixture of...

Bakalar po domaću

Croatian Style Cod

Bakalar po domaću is a traditional Croatian dish made with salt cod. It is a simple but flavorful meal that is perfect for Lent or other meatless occasions.