The cuisine of a country plays such an integral part in its background, and in Croatia, the food is just as diverse as its landscapes. Sourcing influences from its neighbours, coastal areas boast plenty of seafood whereas inland focus on other meats – tied together with an abundance of herbs, fresh produce and olive oil. These are five regional specialties you need to try when in Croatia.
1. Peka
Where: Dalmatian Coast (Split, Dubrovnik, Korčula)
The word ‘peka’ has two meanings as it’s both a cooking method and dish rolled into one. A peka is an iron bell with meat, seafood, potatoes and vegetables placed underneath it. This is cooked slowly over fire embers, and the result is smoky and tender. Local konobas (or Croatian taverns) often specialise in peka, so you know exactly where to head if this comforting dish sounds up your alley.
2. Black Risotto
Where: Split, Dubrovnik
Rich, briny and bold in colour, black risotto is a must in Croatia and pairs perfectly with a glass of Malvazija white wine. This is typically made with fresh squid, mussels and/or clams, and gets its colour from cuttlefish ink that is added at the last moment.
3. Ćevapi
Where: Zagreb
Ćevapi is an easy grab-and-go lunch, snack, and Croatian street food favourite. Minced meat is formed into sausages and grilled to perfection before being stuffed into a fluffy flatbread with onions and ajvar (a roast capsicum sauce). The best part? Each region has its own spice mix for the sausages so you can try different variations wherever you go and never tire of it!
4. Strukli
Where: Northern Croatia
Looking for a sweet treat to satisfy those three-thirty cravings? Keep an eye out for strukli, a pastry hailing from Northern Croatia filled with cottage cheese and cream. There are two types with different textures – a crunchy strukli baked to form a golden crust, while a softer strukli has been boiled. Both are delicious!
5. Fritule
Where: Coastal Croatia
Fritule are the Croatian version of donuts. Popular during festivals and Christmas markets, these bite-sized morsels are addictive – and for good reason, too! A dusting of icing sugar coats each donut but the real flavour hits with the first bite. A traditional fritule features lemon zest, raisins and rum.
Croatia is calling! Visit on an Avalon Waterways river cruise, or a Globus or Cosmos tour.
