Classic Serbian Food and Drinks to Try: Top 10 in Serbia

Part of fully immersing yourself in the culture of a destination is indulging in its local culinary delights. Serbian cuisine, with its hearty and generously portioned dishes, seamlessly blends flavors from Serbian, Ottoman, Roman, and Austro-Hungarian influences, resulting in a gastronomic experience that is as diverse as it is delicious. Embark on a culinary journey through Serbia by exploring the top 10 classic Serbian food and drinks to try in Serbia, each personally recommended by locals.

Sarma

If you have visited other countries in the Balkans, Central Europe, or Eastern Europe, you have most likely encountered this dish or a version of it before. Sarma is cabbage leaves stuffed with minced meat, tomato sauce, rice, and sauerkraut. Sometimes the meat is substituted with bacon or fish. This dish is often served as an appetizer or a side dish.

Ajvar

A vegetable dip or spread made out of red bell peppers, garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and eggplant that is often served with Serbian bread like lepinja or pogača. Traditionally, this spread is prepared in the fall when peppers are most abundant. They are then placed into jars and stored for several months.

Ćevapi

A Balkan favorite, Ćevapi consists of minced meat shaped into sausages, served with ajvar, sour cream, salt, chopped onions, and kajmak. Typically, a dish includes 5-10 pieces and is complemented by various potato side dishes, showcasing regional variations.

Rakija

A traditional Serbian drink that’s fruit brandy. The most popular versions are made from plum or grapes, but there are many different flavors available. The liquor is 40% ABV and is meant to be sipped, not taken as a shot. Make sure to cheer and sip when looking into each other’s eyes so you don’t receive bad luck.

Punjene Paprike

“Punjen” means something stuffed so the name of this dish literally means “stuffed peppers.” This dish involves hollowing out bell peppers, filling them with rice, meat, and spices, placing cheese on top, and then baking everything in the oven. The peppers are served with tomato paste, onions, olive oil, and seasonings. Typically served as an appetizer or side dish, it can also be served as a main, usually accompanied by a side of potatoes.

Gibanica

People consider Serbian cheese pie a national dish, made with phyllo dough, cheese, and eggs. Baking the layers casserole-style in the oven, it can be enjoyed as a snack, breakfast, or dinner, traditionally served with yogurt.

Pljeskavica

A national dish of Serbia. It is essentially referred to as the Serbian hamburger. The meat patty is made of ground beef, pork, or lamb and can be served on bread or just as the meat patty. It is often served with a side of potatoes and chopped onions.

Prebranac

A delicious traditional dish consisting of baked beans, onions, garlic, paprika, bay leaves, and sunflower oil. This dish was originally made by farmers to eat during the winter to keep warm. Every family has their own recipe passed down through generations. It is often served with bread on the side.

Vanilice

For the sweet tooths, be sure to try this Serbian vanilla cookie, which is usually enjoyed on the holidays. The cookie consists of two vanilla walnut cookies, with apricot or jam in the center. Before serving, the cookies are dusted with powdered sugar, adding to the presentation.

Srpska Salata

Also called shopska salad, the dish is made of chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. It is similar to the Bulgarian national dish, minus the cheese. The salad can be served year-round, but it is most popular during the summer months and the prime vegetable season. The salad is drizzled with olive oil or sunflower oil and ground salt and pepper.

Serbia offers a culinary journey that transcends mere sustenance; it’s a flavorful exploration of history, tradition, and cultural richness. From the hearty embrace of Sarma to the soul-warming sips of Rakija, each dish and drink narrates a tale of Serbian heritage. As you traverse the diverse landscapes of this Balkan gem, don’t miss the opportunity to savor the essence of the country through its cuisine. These classic Serbian foods and drinks are not just sustenance; they are an invitation to experience the heart and soul of Serbia. Embark on a gastronomic adventure and savor the unforgettable flavors of “Classic Serbian Food and Drinks to Try.”

Considering visiting Serbia? Check out this complete travel guide!