Food in Sarajevo: Must-eat dishes

Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is renowned for its rich and diverse food culture, reflecting the city’s long history and cultural influences from Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Balkan cuisine. Whether you’re a foodie, a traveler, or just looking for something new and delicious to try, Sarajevo has something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to food in Sarajevo and some of the must-eat dishes you should try when visiting Sarajevo, and where you can find them.

Ćevapi

Ćevapi, a traditional Bosnian dish, is a staple food in Sarajevo and can be found in almost every local restaurant and café. Made from minced beef and lamb, ćevapi is shaped into small sausage-like rolls, grilled to perfection, and served in a warm pita bread with raw onions and kaymak, a creamy dairy product similar to clotted cream.

Ćevapi has a long history in Bosnian cuisine, originating in the Ottoman Empire, and has been popular in Sarajevo for centuries. The dish has a unique taste, thanks to the blend of spices used in the meat mixture, and is an essential part of the local food culture.

Some of the most popular places to try ćevapi in Sarajevo are Ćevabdžinica Željo and Ćevabdžinica Petica Ferhatović. These restaurants serve up delicious and authentic ćevapi, and you can be sure you’re getting a taste of the real deal.

Burek (pita)

Another must-eat dish in Sarajevo is burek, a savory pastry made of flaky phyllo dough filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. Burek has a long history in the Balkans, and is a staple food in Sarajevo, often enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack.

Burek is made by layering phyllo dough with fillings, then rolling it into a spiral shape and baking it until golden brown. The result is a crispy and flaky pastry with a rich and satisfying filling. Burek is often served with a cup of yogurt.

Some of the best places to try burek in Buregdžinica Sač, and Buregdžinica Bosna. These restaurants serve up delicious and authentic burek, made with fresh ingredients and traditional methods.

Dolma

Dolma, also known as stuffed peppers or stuffed grape leaves, is a staple dish in Sarajevo and throughout the Balkans. The dish consists of fresh bell peppers or grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices, then cooked in a savory tomato sauce.

Dolma has a long history in the region, with roots in Ottoman cuisine, and is a popular dish in Sarajevo. The dish is flavorful and filling, making it a perfect meal for lunch or dinner.

Bosanski Lonac

Bosanski Lonac, also known as Bosnian stew, is a traditional dish in Sarajevo and throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. The dish is made by slow-cooking a mixture of meats, vegetables, and spices in a clay pot, resulting in a rich and flavorful stew.

Bosanski Lonac is a staple food in Sarajevo and is often enjoyed on special occasions or as a comfort food during the colder months. The dish is hearty and filling, making it a perfect meal for lunch or dinner.

Grah

Grah is a traditional Bosnian dish that’s made from white beans and a mixture of spices and herbs. This dish is a staple in Bosnian cuisine and is often served as a hearty and comforting meal, especially during the colder months. Grah is typically slow-cooked for several hours, allowing the flavors to meld and create a rich and savory stew.

Grah can be made with a variety of ingredients, but it usually includes white beans, onions, garlic, and a mixture of spices such as paprika, bay leaves, and cumin. Some variations of grah also include meat, such as diced bacon or sausage, to create an even more filling and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Sarajevo is a city with a rich and diverse food culture, offering a range of delicious and unique dishes to try. From Ćevapi to Burek, Dolma to Bosanski Lonac, there’s something for everyone in Sarajevo’s culinary scene.

So next time you’re in Sarajevo, be sure to try some of these must-eat dishes and immerse yourself in the city’s food culture. You won’t regret it!

and grilled to perfection, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish. This dish is a must-try for those who love grilled meats and is often served with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables or potatoes.

FAQs

1. What is Ćevapi?
   Cevapi is a type of sausage made from a mixture of beef and lamb that’s commonly found in Sarajevo. It’s typically served with bread and a range of accompaniments.
2. What is pita?
   Burek is a type of pastry made from phyllo dough that’s filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. It’s a popular option for on-the-go eating and is commonly found in Sarajevo.
3. What is dolma?
   Dolma is a dish made from grape leaves that are stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices. The stuffed grape leaves are then cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce.