Home /Blog/ 18+ Best Balkan Food & Cuisine You Must Try

18+ Best Balkan Food & Cuisine You Must Try

Published:

The world ‘Balkan’ is a Turkish word and a geographical designation. Balkan region or Balkan states constitute those countries lying on the Balkan Peninsula of the European continent. Generally, it is a region of 12 countries such as Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, and Slovenia surrounded by the Adriatic Sea, the Ionian Sea, the Aegean Sea, and the Black Sea.

Tourism in the Balkan region has grown consistently over the years and the major contributing elements to the growing tourism are history, natural beauty, cultural heritage and also the cuisine of the region. Balkan Cuisine is also a reason why you must visit Balkan states. However, it is important to note that if you are a vegan, you will find it hard to get food for you. Here are some of the popular food and drinks from the Balkan States; you must try when you are there.

Must Try Authentic Balkan Food and Cuisine

1. Shopska SaladShopska Salad

Shopska salad originates from Bulgaria and it is quite a popular dish among many Balkan Dishes. A tasty and healthy food item which is made from tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, bell peppers, brined cheese, parsley, and olives sometimes. Across the Balkan region, you can order Shopska salad in any restaurants you go to.

2. StrukljiStruklji

This popular and traditional Slovenian food item is made of dough and filled with various local ingredients such as cottage, cheese, walnuts and apple and comes in cooked or baked form. This richly filled Balkan food item comes in the rolled form and it is quite a tasty item for every food lover.

3. SaganakiSaganaki

This traditional Greek food item is for cheese lovers as Saganaki’s main ingredient is cheese fried in frying pans. This popular Balkan food item is named after the frying pan that is used to prepare this item. This is a cheesy mouthwatering starter for everyone. With different versions available, saganaki is also served with carbs, vegetables or tomato sauce.

4. SarmaSarma

Coming from the popular Balkan cuisine category, one cannot afford to let these little rolls stay on their platter for long. Sarma is a stuffed cabbage dish that is rolled with fillings that include spicy meat, rice, and onion soup mix and when it is slathered with yogurt, it becomes irresistible food item.

5. BanitsaBanitsa

This is a traditional Bulgarian dish, which can easily silence your hunger with a feeling of yummy in your mouth. A mixture of whisked eggs and pieces of cheese are layered between Filo pastry and after that, it is baked in an oven. Generally served as breakfast, one can eat it hot or cold.

6. CevapiCevapi

A grilled dish, a type of Kebab, Cevapi is simply super popular around the Balkan region. This meat dish is one of the widely available Balkan dishes. If one food that can be said to unite Balkan states, it has to be Cevapi for sure. All non-vegetarians can taste this small, caseless sausage made of minced meats which is then grilled, served with onion, yogurt, and bread.

7. Cig KofteCig-Kofte

Also known as Chee Kofta, this is a raw meatball, a popular food item in Turkey. You need to taste this to give an ‘Mmmmm’ feeling to your taste buds. Just pick up a ball and place it in a lettuce leaf, sprinkle lemon on it and take it into your mouth and feel the taste.

8. RozataRozata

No meal is complete without a dessert. So, Rozata is the dessert for you, a popular item in the cuisine of Balkans. This is similar to French Crème Brulee. The ingredients that go into making Rozata are eggs, sugar, and milk. Rozata comes from the family of Croatian culinary heritage dishes, and can easily be ordered in most of the restaurants here.

9. BurekBurek

Burek is a Balkan food and a good snack option. This baked filled pastry is made of phyllo - very thin unleavened dough. Burek is prepared in a large pan and is cut into portions after baking it. Burek is quite tasty and the taste of sesame seeds that is sprinkled on it makes it taste yummier.

10. KrempitaKrempita

Another delicious dessert and popular among Balkan dishes, Krempita is a vanilla custard cake. Sheets of crispy puff pastry are filled with vanilla custard cream to prepare this mouthwatering dessert. Krempita is known with various names in the region but that does not matter. What matters is that you must taste this yummy cake.

11. MititeiMititei

Mititei or Mici is a Romanian dish. This cylindrical shape rolls made of grilled ground meat is made from meat, spices, black pepper, thyme, coriander, and other ingredients. Mititei is a delicious meaty food item, available everywhere in restaurants, small kiosks and streets of the Balkan region. This is a good choice among starters.

12. TulumbiTulumbi

Tulumbi is a tasty dessert coming from Macedonia in the Balkan region. A popular Balkan food item, Tulumbi is available at any local pastry shop in Macedonia. So, you can buy it on a walk and enjoy this delicate pastry with a cup of tea or coffee. If you are craving for sweets then you can easily go for Tulumbi.

13. SarmaleSarmale

Sarmale is a popular Romanian stuffed cabbage roll. Sarmale is served throughout the year but they are special items during the Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Romania. So, when you are in Bucharest and want to try the traditional cuisine of the country then you can go for Sarmale.

14. BaklavaBaklava

Baklava can be found everywhere in the Balkan Peninsula, and especially in Albania. A rich and layered cake item filled with nuts is available in various sizes and varieties as well. You cannot miss this probably the sweetest dessert provided your doctor has not advised you otherwise. Oh no, you can try this despite prohibitions from sugar.

15. Begova CorbaBegova-Corba

A healing soup and popular item in the Balkan Drink category especially to get rid of cold complaints, Begova Corba is a traditional item from Bosnian cuisine. The soup contains chicken meat, dried okra and several vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, etc. and then slowly cooked. This may not taste quite good but definitely worth a try especially if you are feeling cold there.

16. RakiaRakia

Rakia is hard liquor with over 60% alcohol, so it may not be prescribed for everyone. But those who want to test the strength of their mouth, belly and what not may try this highly fiery Balkan drink. You may feel on a high and at the same time burning in your mouth and belly. So, drink it on your own risk especially if you have not tasted such a thing before.

17. AyranAyran

Ayran is a refreshing Yogurt Balkan drink. Simply made with 4 cups of Yogurt, 2 cups water and a pinch of salt, Ayran is a cool cure of worst kind of hangover. But that is not it, you can drink Ayran for any purpose such as quenching your thirst or simply to get a relief from hot weather.

18. Turkish CoffeeTurkish Coffee

Well, Turkish coffee is popular all over the world. You cannot miss it for any reason. Throughout the Balkan region, the Turkish way of preparing coffee has been a tradition for a long time. You can get a cup of Turkish coffee in restaurants and even on the streets quite easily. So, whether a coffee lover or not, you must try this popular Balkan drink.

So, earlier if you had only mainstream reasons such as sightseeing, beach vacation, summer holiday, Christmas and New Year Celebrations, Cultural and Historical explorations, etc., now you have one more tasty reason to go to Balkans and that is to explore the food items of these states.

Must Read:Top Attractions in Balkans

Romantic Destinations in the Balkans

Recent Blog

...

24 Apr

Travel Admin Coments (8)

Central Asia vs. Europe: Which Offers Better Value for Indian Travelers?

Regarding traveling the world, two international regions that come to Indians more randomly are Euro...

Read More
...

23 Apr

Travel Admin Coments (8)

12 Best Places to Visit in Eastern Europe for an Unforgettable Experience

Eastern Europe is a treasure trove of a different culture, rich in history, fine architecture, and n...

Read More
...

22 Apr

Travel Admin Coments (8)

Ananuri Fortress, Georgia: What to See, Do, and Eat

If you dream of having a day filled with amazing views of nature and enjoying Georgian regions, visi...

Read More
...

14 Apr

Travel Admin Coments (8)

10 Best Cafes & Bars in Tbilisi

Georgia is one of the most attractive countries and has the most charming capital, Tbilisi. It is kn...

Read More
...

14 Apr

Travel Admin Coments (8)

6 Trending Summer Destinations in the World

The Best Summer Destinations in the World offer something for every kind of traveler, and these are...

Read More
...

11 Apr

Travel Admin Coments (8)

20 Top Things to Do in Phu Quoc Island - Vietnam’s Blissful Haven

Nestled away in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc Island is a dream getaway of golden beaches, lush jun...

Read More
...

02 Apr

Travel Admin Coments (8)

Why Uzbekistan Should Be Your Top Budget Travel Destination in 2025?

Uzbekistan is a historical gem of Central Asia. It brims with medieval cities, cultural landmarks, a...

Read More
...

01 Apr

Travel Admin Coments (8)

12 Visa-Free Countries for Indian Passport Holders: Explore the World Without Hassle

Traveling in new countries is always interesting, but one of the biggest obstacles to Indian travele...

Read More
...

28 Mar

Travel Admin Coments (8)

Baku & Azerbaijan Visa for Indians: Key Facts and Updates You Should Know

Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is one of the most vibrant cities to explore in Azerbaijan. The cit...

Read More
...

27 Mar

Travel Admin Coments (8)

20 Best Places to Visit in Summer in India

As the summer season begins, India braces for an exciting summer break with multiple tourist destina...

Read More
...

26 Mar

Travel Admin Coments (8)

Uzbekistan Travel Guide: Everything You Should Know Before Going

Are you planning a trip to Uzbekistan and want to know everything about it? Our comprehensive Uzbeki...

Read More
...

25 Mar

Travel Admin Coments (8)

Why Baku is the Hot Destination for Indian Travelers

Baku, the treasure trove of Azerbaijan, is the hottest tourist destination for globetrotters. Partic...

Read More
...

24 Mar

Travel Admin Coments (8)

Schengen-style Central Asian Visa? Kyrgyzstan Plans Unified Visa for Central Asia

Isn’t a Central Asia visa a dream for many travelers who wish to explore the region’s untouched trea...

Read More
...

21 Mar

Travel Admin Coments (8)

Kazakhstan Travel Guide: Insights for an Unforgettable Getaway

This travel guide can help travelers map out their vacation planning by jotting down the places they...

Read More
...

19 Mar

Travel Admin Coments (8)

Best Time to Travel to Turkey for a Fantastic Getaway

Turkey has many untouched wonders and hidden gems to explore. Moreover, there are an array of advent...

Read More
...

18 Mar

Travel Admin Coments (8)

Best Time to Visit Russia to Experience the Magic of the Seasons

Every season has its unique charm and offerings that lure tourists from all over the world. Spring s...

Read More
...

07 Mar

Travel Admin Coments (8)

7 Countries Indian Travelers Can Visit with a Japan Visa

Indian citizens with a valid Japan visa can explore other destinations in the world without getting...

Read More
...

03 Mar

Travel Admin Coments (8)

Best Time to Visit Armenia for an Unforgettable Experience

Armenia is a must-visit destination, with ancient monasteries, snow-covered Caucasus mountain peaks,...

Read More
...

28 Feb

Travel Admin Coments (8)

14 Cheapest European Countries to Visit This Year

If you are wondering to know the least expensive countries to go to from India. From the seaside vie...

Read More
...

26 Feb

Travel Admin Coments (8)

Best Time to Visit Kyrgyzstan for the Ultimate Adventure

Kyrgyzstan is an unmatched destination that you must visit. Before heading here, you should check ou...

Read More
...

25 Feb

Travel Admin Coments (8)

15 Top Places to Visit in Da Nang Vietnam

Da Nang is a scenic coastal city in Vietnam with spectacular beaches, Buddhist pagodas, deep-rooted...

Read More
...

20 Feb

Travel Admin Coments (8)

Visa on Arrival Countries for Indian Travelers

Indian travelers' dream of traveling to foreign countries can come true with a visa-on-arrival facil...

Read More
...

18 Feb

Travel Admin Coments (8)

Big Almaty Lake: A Treasure Trove of Kazakhstan

You may have traveled to various astonishing places worldwide, but we bet you have not seen a gem li...

Read More
...

06 Feb

Travel Admin Coments (8)

CIS Countries: Unveiling the Top Travel Destinations to Explore

The member states of CIS are Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Armenia, Belaru...

Read More
...

04 Feb

Travel Admin Coments (8)

Best Time to Visit Azerbaijan & Baku

No matter which season you choose to visit, Azerbaijan offers something to enjoy throughout the year...

Read More
...

03 Feb

Travel Admin Coments (8)

9 Best Cities in Bulgaria to Visit

Bulgaria is quite a novel destination in the Balkans It has a rich and immersive history which stand...

Read More
...

03 Feb

Travel Admin Coments (8)

Best Time to Visit Kazakhstan: A Seasonal Guide

Kazakhstan is a year-long destination where travelers can enjoy a range of adventures, sightseeing t...

Read More
...

02 Feb

Travel Admin Coments (8)

5 Stans Tour: Your Ultimate Guide to the Diverse Wonders of Central Asia

Central Asia stretches from Russia in the north Afghanistan in the south Chine in the east and the.....

Read More
...

20 Jan

Travel Admin Coments (8)

30 Best Things To Do in Vietnam

Vietnam a Southeast Asian country is a magnificent mix of natural attractions and cultural diversity...

Read More
Book With Confidence

Hassle-free booking and best price guaranteed

24/7 support available

Hand-picked tours & activities

Free travel insurance