Serbian cuisine: Discover the rich flavors of traditional dishes and drinks. Explore the best places to try them and savor the taste of Serbia.

Exploring Serbian Cuisine: Traditional Dishes and Drinks to Try and Where to Find Them

Serbia is a country with a rich culinary tradition that reflects its history and geography. Located at the crossroads of Europe and the Balkans, Serbian cuisine is a fusion of different influences, including Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Mediterranean. In this article, we will explore some of the traditional dishes and drinks that you should try when visiting Serbia, as well as where to find them.

One of the most iconic Serbian dishes is cevapi, a type of grilled meat that is usually served with onions, ajvar (a red pepper spread), and somun (a type of bread). Cevapi are small, finger-sized sausages made of minced beef or pork, seasoned with salt, pepper, and paprika. They are usually grilled over charcoal and served hot, with a side of kajmak (a type of creamy cheese) or urnebes (a spicy cheese spread). Cevapi are a popular street food in Serbia, and you can find them in many kiosks and fast-food restaurants, as well as in traditional taverns called kafanas.

Another must-try Serbian dish is pljeskavica, a type of burger made of minced meat (usually beef or pork) mixed with onions, garlic, and spices. Pljeskavica is usually served with kajmak, ajvar, and somun, and can be topped with cheese, bacon, or fried eggs. Pljeskavica is a hearty and filling dish that is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. You can find it in many fast-food restaurants and kafanas, as well as in specialized pljeskavica shops.

If you are a fan of stews and soups, you should try goulash, a Hungarian-inspired dish that is popular in Serbia. Goulash is a thick and hearty stew made of beef or pork, onions, paprika, and other spices. It is usually served with potatoes or bread, and can be topped with sour cream or grated cheese. Goulash is a perfect comfort food for cold winter days, and you can find it in many traditional restaurants and taverns.

Another traditional Serbian soup is pasulj, a bean soup that is usually made with smoked meat (such as bacon or ham hock), onions, carrots, and spices. Pasulj is a hearty and nutritious soup that is perfect for vegetarians and meat lovers alike. It is usually served with bread or cornbread, and can be topped with sour cream or chopped onions. Pasulj is a staple dish in Serbian households, and you can find it in many traditional restaurants and taverns.

If you have a sweet tooth, you should try baklava, a Turkish-inspired dessert that is popular in Serbia. Baklava is a sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts (usually walnuts or pistachios), and honey or syrup. Baklava is a rich and indulgent dessert that is perfect for special occasions or as a treat after a meal. You can find it in many pastry shops and bakeries, as well as in traditional restaurants and taverns.

Another traditional Serbian dessert is palacinke, a type of crepe that is usually filled with jam, Nutella, or cheese. Palacinke are thin and delicate pancakes that are perfect for breakfast or as a snack. They can be served hot or cold, and can be topped with whipped cream or fresh fruit. Palacinke are a popular street food in Serbia, and you can find them in many kiosks and fast-food restaurants, as well as in traditional pastry shops.

When it comes to drinks, Serbia is famous for its rakija, a type of fruit brandy that is usually made of plums, apricots, or grapes. Rakija is a strong and potent drink that is usually served as an aperitif or a digestif. It is often homemade, and each family has its own recipe and method of distillation. Rakija is a symbol of Serbian hospitality and tradition, and you can find it in many traditional restaurants and taverns, as well as in specialized rakija bars.

Another popular Serbian drink is kafana, a type of coffee that is usually served in traditional taverns. Kafana is a strong and aromatic coffee that is brewed in a cezve (a small copper pot) and served in a dzezva (a small copper cup). Kafana is a social drink that is often accompanied by a cigarette or a conversation. It is a symbol of Serbian culture and identity, and you can find it in many traditional taverns and coffee shops.

In conclusion, Serbian cuisine is a rich and diverse culinary tradition that reflects the country’s history and geography. From cevapi and pljeskavica to goulash and pasulj, Serbian dishes are hearty, filling, and flavorful. And from rakija and kafana to baklava and palacinke, Serbian drinks and desserts are indulgent, aromatic, and delicious. Whether you are a foodie or a traveler, exploring Serbian cuisine is a must-do experience that will leave you satisfied and impressed. So, next time you visit Serbia, make sure to try some of these traditional dishes and drinks, and discover the true taste of this fascinating country.