Along the coastline, families get together, especially in summer, and cook in a bell shaped oven called a pekawhich (peka). The peka steams the food in its own natural juices, which enhances the flavour. Devotees claim anything cooked under the peka tastes incredible, with turkey and pork being particular Croatian favourites.
With its thousands of islands and a population that learns to fish as soon as they can walk, seafood is very popular. Dishes range from simple grilled whole fish to an Italian inspired seafood stew called brodet, which is traditionally served over soft polenta. A black risotto made with squid ink is also a big favourite.
Spit roasts are popular especially in the spring and whole lamb or pork often features, with herbs such as rosemary sometimes added to the charcoal to add a distinctive flavour. On open fires, whole fish and sardines are cooked along with cevapi, a dish of two types of grilled minced meat hand-shaped into 'sausages' that is often served with flatbread, chopped onion, cottage cheese and sour cream.
Asparagus risotto (rizot od sparoga).
When families gather in central Croatia, cabbage rolls stuffed with pork and rice are enjoyed along with mashed potato. Meals often start with slices of cured meats such as prsut, the Croatian version of prosciutto; kulen, a spicy salami; csabai and speck. Many home cooks make their own sauerkraut by pickling whole heads of cabbage. Paprika is used liberally to add flavour to everything from homemade salami to hearty stews.
Sweets in continental Croatia are magnificent and feature many fruits in season such as plums, apricots and apples as well as poppy seeds and walnuts. Palacinke pancakes are popular along with fruit dumplings, luscious tortes and buttery biscuits.
Blackberry pie Source: Feast magazine
Stuffed barbecued squid Source: Armelle Habib
Croatian Food Safari recipes
Barbecued rack of lamb
