croatian Recipes
19 delicious croatian recipes from around the world
Bakalar na Bijelo
A classic Dalmatian dish, Bakalar na Bijelo is a creamy, cold preparation of salt cod. It's typically served as an appetizer or a light meal, often during Christmas Eve, with crusty bread.
Brodet (Croatian Fish Stew)
Brodet is a traditional Croatian fish stew, particularly popular along the Dalmatian coast. It's characterized by its rich flavor derived from a variety of fish and seafood, slow-cooked in a flavorful broth with onions, tomatoes, and often a touch of wine or vinegar.
Crni Rižot (Black Risotto)
A striking and flavorful seafood risotto made with squid ink, giving it its characteristic black color and rich, oceanic taste. This dish is a beloved classic along the Croatian coast.
Dalmatinska Peka
Peka is a traditional Croatian one-pot dish, often considered a national treasure, prepared by slow-roasting meat (commonly lamb, veal, or octopus) or seafood with vegetables and potatoes under a bell-shaped lid, buried in embers. This method results in incredibly tender, moist, and aromatic food.
Grah Varivo (Croatian Bean Stew)
Grah Varivo is a hearty and rustic Croatian bean stew, often considered a peasant dish but beloved by all. It features tender white beans simmered with vegetables like carrots and potatoes, and typically includes smoked meat such as sausage or ribs for a rich, savory flavor.
Hrvatske Fritule
Fritule are small, round, deep-fried pastries, similar to mini doughnuts, that are a traditional Croatian festive treat, especially popular during Christmas and Carnival. They have a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior, often flavored with citrus zest, raisins, and a hint of rum or brandy.
Istarski Riblji Brudet
A rich and flavorful fish stew from the Istrian region of Croatia, characterized by its aromatic blend of herbs, white wine, and a variety of fresh fish.
Kvarner Scampi na Buzaru
A classic Adriatic seafood dish featuring langoustines (scampi) cooked in a flavorful white wine, garlic, tomato, and parsley sauce. 'Na buzaru' refers to the cooking method.
Maneštra od bobića
A hearty and flavorful bean and corn soup, a staple in Istrian and Dalmatian cuisine, often enriched with smoked meat.
Paj od Jabuka i Cimeta
A comforting and aromatic apple pie, a popular dessert in Croatia, featuring a flaky crust filled with tender, spiced apples.
Pašticada s Njokima
A rich and flavorful slow-cooked beef dish, Pašticada is a Dalmatian specialty often served with homemade gnocchi. The beef is marinated and braised in a sauce of vegetables, red wine, and prunes, creating a deep, complex flavor.
Pastrmka na žaru s povrćem
Grilled trout, a popular dish along Croatia's coast and rivers, seasoned simply and served with grilled seasonal vegetables.
Punjene Paprike (Croatian Stuffed Peppers)
A classic Croatian comfort food, Punjene Paprike are bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and seasonings, then simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This dish is popular throughout Croatia, enjoyed both inland and along the coast.
Slavonski Kulen
Slavonski Kulen is a highly prized, dry-cured pork sausage originating from the Slavonia region of Croatia. It's known for its rich, spicy flavor, deep red color, and distinctive aroma, achieved through a meticulous process of seasoning with paprika, garlic, and salt, followed by smoking and long-term air-drying.
Šoparnik
A traditional savory pie from Dalmatia, specifically the Poljica region. Šoparnik is made with a thin dough filled with Swiss chard, garlic, and olive oil, then baked over an open fire or in an oven.
Šoparnik (Zeljanik)
A traditional savory pie from Dalmatia, particularly the Cetina region, made with a thin dough filled generously with Swiss chard and garlic, then baked until crispy.
Zagorski Štrukli
A traditional dish from the Zagorje region of northern Croatia, Zagorski Štrukli are a type of baked or boiled strudel with a cottage cheese filling. They can be served as a savory appetizer or a sweet dessert.
Zagrebački Odrezak (Zagreb Schnitzel)
A sophisticated Croatian take on the Viennese schnitzel, this dish features a tender veal or pork cutlet stuffed with ham and cheese, then breaded and fried to golden perfection.
Zeleni Žganci
A rustic and hearty dish from the Gorski Kotar region, Zeleni Žganci is a type of polenta made with nettles, giving it a vibrant green color and a unique earthy flavor. It's often served as a side dish or a light meal.