Recent Posts

Drinks

Šumadijski Čaj / Šumadija “Tea”

Šumadijski Čaj, a winter specialty in Serbia roughly translates to Šumadija Tea…except its not technically tea at all. Oh yes, it’s much much stronger than tea. Also referred to as Grejana Rakija, Šumadijski Čaj is warm plum brandy heated with caramelized sugar and enjoyed piping hot. This traditional drink is […]

Entrees

Podvarak/ Baked Sauerkraut

During the winter months, sauerkraut or pickled cabbage is consumed regularly in Balkan households. It’s used to make many different traditional dishes such as Sarma, Kiseli Kupus sa Mesom, and Podvarak, a simple sauerkraut baked dish that is accompanied by delicious smoked meats that are also widely available in the […]

Desserts

Panj Torta / Yule Log

When I was little, the “it” cake to make for special occasions was the Panj Torta. I remember at one point in time everyone made this cake, year-round, and for all kinds of occasions. It was the most popular cake and amateur home chefs took time to make sure their […]

Desserts

Čoko-Oranž Kuglice / Choco-Orange Truffles

During the holiday season, one of my favorite treats is Terry’s Chocolate Orange. If you’ve never had one and enjoy the combination of chocolate and orange you’re seriously missing out. I usually buy a couple and enjoy them during the holiday season. Orange is definitely my favorite flavor combination with […]

Bakery

Sunce Pogača/Balkan-Style Brioche

When a special occasion or holiday rolls around, Balkan families prepare a pogača, a savory yeasted bread made with milk, eggs, and lots of butter or margarine. A pogača also plays a key part in ceremonies such as weddings, christenings, and the birth of children. A pogača is presented as […]

Desserts

Breskvice/Peach Cookies

Breskvice are everyone’s favorite Balkan cookie yet many are too intimidated to make them on their own. They look complicated, fragile, and like they probably take too long to make. But what if I told you that they’re not as complicated as they seem? Sitni kolači, or small, bite-sized desserts, […]