Discover the Flavors of Bulgaria: 20 Authentic Recipes to Try
When it comes to exploring the world of Eastern European cuisine, Bulgaria often takes a backseat to more well-known countries like Poland or Romania. But this small country has a rich culinary heritage that’s definitely worth getting familiar with. From hearty meat stews and savory pastries to refreshing salads and sweet treats, Bulgarian cuisine has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Bulgaria, exploring 20 authentic recipes that showcase the country’s unique flavor profiles and cooking techniques. From classic dishes like Shopska Salad and Banitsa with Cheese, to modern twists like Tarator (Cold Cucumber Soup) and Garash Cake (Walnut and Chocolate Cake), we’ll introduce you to a variety of must-try Bulgarian recipes.
Shopska Salad
Discover the simplicity and flavor of Bulgarian Shopska salad, a refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, feta cheese, and parsley.
Ingredients:
- 3 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 200g crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, and thinly sliced onion.
- Add the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Banitsa with Cheese
This classic Banitsa recipe combines flaky phyllo dough with a savory cheese filling, perfect for a comforting snack or light meal. With its crispy exterior and gooey center, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, combine feta and cheddar cheese.
4. Layer phyllo dough with the cheese mixture, ending with a layer of dough on top.
5. Brush melted butter over the top layer of dough.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tarator (Cold Cucumber Soup)
Cool down on a hot summer day with this simple and revitalizing Bulgarian-inspired soup, Tarator. This refreshing cold cucumber soup is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Chopped fresh dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated cucumber, yogurt, cream, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir well to combine until the mixture is smooth.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve cold, garnished with chopped fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This soup is best served chilled, making it perfect for hot summer days or quick lunches.
Kebapche (Bulgarian Grilled Sausages)
A classic Bulgarian dish, Kebapche are juicy grilled sausages smothered in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This recipe brings the authentic taste of Bulgaria to your backyard barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Kebapche sausages (Bulgarian-style or substitute with garlic sausage)
– 2 large onions, sliced
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread sausage, onion, and bell pepper onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush sausages with a little oil and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Grill for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until sausages are nicely charred.
5. Meanwhile, combine crushed tomatoes, garlic, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
6. Once sausages are cooked, brush with the tomato mixture and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lyutenitsa (Pepper and Tomato Relish)
This classic Bulgarian relish, Lyutenitsa, is a flavorful condiment made with roasted peppers, tomatoes, garlic, and spices. It’s perfect for serving alongside grilled meats, cheeses, or as a dip for crackers.
Ingredients:
– 2 large bell peppers, any color
– 2 large tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the bell peppers for about 30 minutes, or until skin is blistered and charred.
3. Peel off the skin, remove seeds, and chop into small pieces.
4. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped tomatoes, garlic, and roasted peppers in olive oil until the mixture is soft and fragrant.
5. Add red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well.
6. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the relish has thickened slightly.
7. Let cool before transferring to a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
Cooking Time: About 45-60 minutes
Musaka with Potatoes and Minced Meat
A hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or special occasion, this Musaka recipe combines the rich flavors of minced meat, potatoes, and tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 large onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the minced meat in a pan over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onions and garlic to the pan and cook until the onions are translucent.
4. In a separate pan, fry the potato slices in olive oil until golden brown.
5. Assemble the Musaka by layering cooked potatoes, minced meat mixture, and crushed tomatoes in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with grated cheese and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bob Chorba (Bean Soup)
Bob Chorba (Bean Soup) Recipe
A hearty and comforting bean soup that’s perfect for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound smoked ham hocks, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the soaked navy beans, smoked ham hocks, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the cumin.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Remove the ham hocks from the pot and let them cool. Once cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bones and return it to the pot.
5. Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 30 minutes or until the beans are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Patatnik (Potato and Cheese Pie)
A classic Eastern European dish, Patatnik is a creamy and savory pie that combines the comfort of potatoes with the richness of cheese. This simple recipe yields a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Arrange the potato mixture on top of the pie crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle grated cheese over the potatoes.
6. Drizzle heavy cream over the cheese.
7. Roll out remaining pie crust and use to cover the pie. Crimp edges to seal.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Kavarma (Slow-Cooked Meat Stew)
This hearty stew originates from Eastern European cuisine, where tender meat is slow-cooked with vegetables and spices to create a rich and flavorful broth. Kavarma is perfect for a cold winter’s day or any time you need a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef or pork, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the meat and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onions and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the carrots, potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Add the browned meat back into the pot, along with the diced tomatoes. Stir well.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Tikvenik (Pumpkin Pastry)
Tikvenik Recipe (Pumpkin Pastry)
Summary: This traditional Albanian dessert is a flaky pastry filled with a sweet and spicy pumpkin filling, perfect for the fall season.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 1 large pumpkin, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and cold butter. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice-cold water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Spread the mashed pumpkin mixture evenly over the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the edges of the dough up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle with sugar.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Gyuvech (Vegetable and Meat Casserole)
Gyuvech is a hearty Bulgarian casserole that combines tender meat with an assortment of colorful vegetables, all wrapped up in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 1 tbsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and paprika to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. In a separate baking dish, combine the cooked meat mixture and diced tomatoes. Top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sirene Po Shopski (Baked Cheese in Clay Pot)
Experience the rich flavors of Bulgaria with this simple and satisfying recipe that combines melted cheese, herbs, and spices in a clay pot. Perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded sirene cheese (or substitute with feta or ricotta)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 small clay pot (or ceramic dish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In the clay pot, combine shredded cheese, melted butter, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kapama (Mixed Meat and Sauerkraut Stew)
Experience the hearty flavors of Eastern European cuisine with this simple and satisfying Kapama recipe, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef, pork, and veal mixed meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the meat, onion, and garlic; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sauerkraut, beef broth, and caraway seeds. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Palačinki (Bulgarian Crepes)
Palačinki are a classic Bulgarian dessert, thin and delicate crepes filled with sweet or savory fillings. This recipe provides a simple and traditional method for making these delicious treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Filling of your choice (e.g., sweet or savory)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour and eggs.
2. Gradually add milk, salt, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth and free of lumps.
3. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
4. Pour 1/4 cup of batter into the pan and tilt to evenly coat the surface.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to curl and the surface is dry.
6. Loosen with a spatula and flip. Cook for another minute.
7. Repeat until all batter is used, filling as desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes (depending on the number of crepes)
Garash Cake (Walnut and Chocolate Cake)
Garash Cake is a decadent dessert that combines the earthy flavors of walnuts with the deep richness of chocolate. This moist and indulgent cake is perfect for special occasions or as a treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 bar of high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), broken into pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts and chocolate pieces.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Kiselo Mlyako (Bulgarian Yogurt)
A classic Bulgarian yogurt recipe that requires minimal effort and time, yet yields a tangy and creamy treat. This traditional method uses a simple starter culture to create the perfect blend of sweet and sour.
Ingredients:
– 1 liter whole milk
– 2 tablespoons active yogurt culture (or 1 tablespoon Bulgarian yogurt)
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F/65°C).
2. Pour the milk into a clean glass jar or container.
3. Add the active yogurt culture or Bulgarian yogurt and mix well.
4. Place the jar in the oven and let it incubate for 6-8 hours or overnight.
5. Remove the jar from the oven and refrigerate to chill before serving.
6. Taste and add salt if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (incubation time)
Note: You can also use a yogurt maker or a dehydrator set to its lowest temperature setting as an alternative to the oven method.
Ovcharska Salata (Shepherd’s Salad)
This classic Bulgarian salad is a staple at family gatherings and celebrations. A refreshing mix of vegetables, cheese, and bread, Ovcharska Salata is perfect for a light meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 large carrot, grated
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup of crumbled white cheese (such as feta or ricotta)
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of white vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 crusty bread roll, cubed
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and diced bell pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together crumbled cheese, chopped parsley, olive oil, and vinegar.
3. Add the cheese mixture to the vegetable mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Just before serving, add cubed bread roll and toss gently.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Stuffed Peppers with Rice and Minced Meat
Transform ordinary peppers into a flavorful and nutritious meal with this simple recipe. A perfect combination of savory rice, minced meat, and sweet bell peppers will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Cook rice according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, cook the minced meat over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
5. Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
6. Stuff each pepper with the cooked rice mixture, followed by the meat mixture.
7. Place peppers in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with paprika.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zelnik (Savory Pastry with Greens and Cheese)
Slovenian Delight: Zelnik (Savory Pastry with Greens and Cheese)
Zelnik is a traditional Slovenian dish that combines the richness of cheese, the earthiness of greens, and the flakiness of pastry. This savory delight is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup mixed greens (kale, spinach, arugula)
– 1/2 cup grated cheese (Parmesan, Cheddar, or Mozzarella)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together greens, cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the green mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serve warm and enjoy!
Tavche Gravche (Baked Beans in Clay Pot)
A traditional Macedonian dish, Tavche Gravche is a hearty and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for a cozy evening. This slow-cooked delight combines tender beans with aromatic spices and herbs, all baked to perfection in a clay pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of dried white beans (such as cannellini or navy)
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Rinse the beans and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
3. Drain and rinse the beans, then transfer them to a clay pot or a regular ceramic dish.
4. Add the olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper on top of the beans.
5. Cover the pot with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Summary
Discover the authentic flavors of Bulgaria with these 20 delicious recipes! From hearty meat stews to refreshing salads and sweet treats, this collection has something for everyone. Try your hand at making Shopska Salad, a classic mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese. Or indulge in some savory pastries like Patatnik or Zelnik. For those with a sweet tooth, Garash Cake is a must-try. These recipes are sure to transport you to the heart of Bulgaria!
