Slatko i voda, or sweet preserves and water.
If you’ve ever visited a Balkan home during a special occasion, holiday, or for the first time, you’ve probably been approached with a tray lined with a dish of what looks like a jam or fruit preserve, glasses of mineral or tap water, and small spoons. If you’ve been lucky enough to experience this, you have taken part in an important tradition.
If you find yourself unsure of this tradition or totally new to this custom (perhaps married into a Balkan family), now is the perfect time to get acquainted with this important and traditional custom. The serving of slatko and water is most common in Serbia, Bulgaria, and parts of Bosnia.
Growing up, I remember countless times I’ve been approached with the symbol of hospitality. The Tray.
Directly translated, “slatko” means sweet. The slatko used in this custom is a thin fruit preserve, usually made with whole or sliced fruits. There are many variations and the most popular fruits used are wild strawberry, wild blackberry, and quince with walnuts.
Over the years, I’ve seen many hostesses’ wanting to display their skills and have tasted preserves from different fruits than what is typically offered such as cantaloupe, watermelon, and grape.
Traditionally, the first thing guests are offered is slatko and water as soon as they make themselves comfortable. Hostesses may offer it twice if the guests are especially enjoying it.
The proper way to eat slatko is to pick up a glass of water, then a spoon. Get as much slatko on your spoon as you would like, and then gracefully place in your mouth taking care not to drip any of the syrup on the floor or table. Often, people use their cup of water as a catching device in case of a drip. After eating a spoonful, drink the water and place your used spoon in the cup. You do not have to drink all of the water, it is purely to dilute the extreme sweetness in your mouth.
One important thing to remember is a separate spoon is used for each serving. If slatko isn’t available, a hostess will offer honey instead (sometimes honey and walnuts mixed together).
So next time you see the tray, don’t hesistate to help yourself twice. And if you’re interested in a recipe, let me know in the comments below!
