15 Best Traditional Dishes in Balkans [Best Local Food in Balkan]

Exploring the local cuisine of a country is just as important as visiting its popular tourist destinations. In the Balkans, you can discover a rich culinary tradition that showcases the unique flavors and dishes of the region. From savory kebabs to sweet pastries, the Balkan cuisine has something for every palate.

If you’re planning a trip to the Balkan Peninsula, make sure to indulge in the local delicacies. In this article, we have compiled a list of the 15 best local foods in the Balkan region that you must try during your travels. From traditional dishes to modern interpretations, these foods will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

15 Best Local Food in Balkan that we recommend

1. Cevapi

Cevapi are grilled flatbreads that are filled with minced meat with sour cream sauce, onions, and feta on top. It’s a type of Kebab and locals usually eat them for lunch or dinner. Cevapi is traditionally found in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, and Serbia and is considered their national dish. You can also find Cevapi in Albania, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Slovenia, Bulgaria, and Austria. Different restaurants also have their own ways of cooking Cevapi.

2. Saganaki

A dish for cheese lovers out there! Saganaki is a Greek dish that’s cooked in a small frying pan. Its name is derived from the frying pan used to make it, which means ‘copper dish’. Saganaki is a pan-seared block of different types of cheese such as kasseri, feta, or kefalotyri. It is sometimes served with bread and lemon juice on top. If you want a mouth-watering and literally melting dish, Saganaki is for you!

3. Sarma

A dish originally from the Ottoman Empire, Sarma is a mixture of rice and meat wrapped in cabbage or chard leaves. After boiling these rolls of goodness, you’ll have an end result of perfection. Its spiciness is better when you add some yogurt!

4. Banitsa

When it comes to cheesy dishes, Banitsa from Bulgaria is a must-try. This pastry is made of layers of filo pastry filled with a mixture of eggs, yogurt, and feta cheese. Baked to perfection, Banitsa is a delightful treat for cheese lovers.

5. Cvarci

Cvarci, a popular snack in the Balkans, is made from pork rinds that have been cooked to remove the fat. Seasoned with salt and garlic, these crispy pork bits are a delicious treat, especially during the winter months. Just remember to enjoy them in moderation!

6. Rozata

For those with a sweet tooth, Rozata is a must-try dessert. This creamy baked custard pudding is served chilled and drizzled with a delicious syrup. The caramel aroma and velvety texture of Rozata make it the perfect ending to a meal.

7. Burek

Originating from Turkey and popular throughout the Balkans, Burek is a flaky pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach. These savory pastries are a staple in Balkan bakeries and make for a delicious snack or meal on the go.

8. Krempita

Indulge in the decadent Krempita, a luscious dessert consisting of custard and chantilly cream encased in a flaky pastry. This heavenly treat is light and airy, yet rich and satisfying. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to savor this delightful Balkan delicacy.

9. Tulumba

Treat yourself to the delightful Tulumba, a Balkan version of churros that will satisfy your sweet cravings. These golden-brown pastries are deep-fried and soaked in syrup, resulting in a decadent and irresistible treat. Experience the sweetness of Tulumba and indulge in its rich flavors.

10.

Begova Corba

To warm your body in a cold season, Begova Corba or Bey’s Soup is the perfect meal. It is a kind of soup made with chicken and vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes. All these ingredients are boiled together into a thick creamy stew. It is usually served with sour cream or sauce. This is eaten or cooked by locals usually during holidays and festivals.

11. Klepe

Craving for some dumplings? Europe has its own version that can be found in the Balkan region. Klepe is common in Bosnia. Cheese and meat, either lamb or beef, are put inside a dough before steaming. Imagine a soft texture while pigging out this awesome dish. It comes with garlic sauce or yogurt.

12. Dolma

Dolma, originally from the Middle East, is also a common dish in the Balkans and Mediterranean. Different ingredients such as vegetables (peppers, zucchini, and eggplant) are stuffed with rice or meat seasoning. Different cities in the Balkan serve Dolma with its own version. Usually, Bosnians serve it warm with a lemon-based sauce plus rice dolma with a yogurt-based garlic sauce. While in Mostar, a city in Bosnia, has their own Dolma specialty called the ‘Sogan Dolma’. It’s cooked using an onion as its base vegetable.

13. Bosanski Lonac (Bosnian Pot)

Considered as one of the national dishes, Bosanski Lonac or Bosnian Pot is a unique stew that’s well-loved because of its rich flavor and flexibility. Its ingredients consist of large chunks of meat and vegetables. Although the recipe for Bosanski Lonac varies from region and personal preferences, its main ingredient which is meat and vegetables are generally included. After simmering, you can enjoy a hot and mouthwatering stew.

14. Tufahija

Tufahija is a dessert made with apple boiled in sugar water filled with walnuts. It is served with whipped cream and syrup for an ideal dessert meal. Bosnians usually partnered Tufahija with a strong coffee as it complements the bitter taste of it. And it turns out to be a perfect combo.

15. Ustipci

These small balls of fried dough that look like mini doughnuts have a savory filling. Ustipci has different versions depending on the region or generation. Sweet Ustipci uses jam or honey while the savory one uses meat or cheese. But whatever version of it, it will surely leave you a really good impression. Ustipci is mostly popular in Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Croatia, Serbia, and Slovenia.

Just by looking at these dishes’ pictures will make you drool already. What more when you try to eat them and experience the delight? So if you are in Europe, don’t forget this local food in Balkan when you travel there.

Are you on Pinterest? Pin these!

About the Writer

Hi there! I’m Fatima. My first major travel was in 2016 in the beautiful city of Cebu. After that, I got interested in traveling. Now I enjoy learning languages and other country’s cultures. My goal is to visit at least one country each year and to share my experiences with other people through writing or blogging. Witness my journey by following me on Instagram.

Please rewrite this sentence.