Food in Bulgaria

Bulgaria, a vibrant country with a rich cultural tapestry, entices travelers not only with its picturesque landscapes and historical landmarks but also with its diverse and flavorful cuisine. Bulgarian dishes, often overshadowed by their Mediterranean counterparts, boast a unique blend of tastes and traditions that reflect the country's complex history. As you embark on your Bulgarian adventure, prepare to indulge in an array of traditional foods that are deeply rooted in local customs. Here's a guide to the must-try Bulgarian specialties that promise to enhance your travel experience and provide an authentic taste of the nation's culinary heritage.

Bulgarian Dishes

Banitsa

Banitsa is a traditional Bulgarian pastry prepared by layering a mixture of whisked eggs and pieces of sirene (Bulgarian white cheese) between filo pastry and then baking it in an oven. Typically consumed for breakfast, it is also served during special occasions such as Christmas and New Year's Eve. Variations can include spinach, pumpkin, or leeks.

Shopska Salata

Shopska Salata is a refreshing, chopped salad commonly served as a starter or side dish. It consists of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, and sirene cheese, similar to Greek feta. The salad is often dressed with sunflower oil and vinegar, and its colors—green, white, and red—represent the Bulgarian flag.

Kavarma

Kavarma is a traditional Bulgarian stew that combines meat (usually pork or chicken), onions, mushrooms, tomatoes, and peppers, often cooked with wine or Bulgarian rakia (fruit brandy). It is typically prepared in a clay pot and slow-cooked to develop the flavors. There are regional variations, such as the Bansko-style kavarma, which includes more meat and less sauce.

Moussaka

Bulgarian moussaka is a hearty dish similar to its Greek cousin but typically uses potatoes instead of eggplants. It features layers of potatoes, minced pork or beef, and onions, topped with a mixture of eggs and yogurt, then baked until golden. It is a comforting dish often enjoyed during colder months.

Tarator

Tarator is a cold soup ideal for hot summer days, made from yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, dill, walnuts, and sunflower oil. It's sometimes thinned with water and served chilled. This soup is not only refreshing but also believed to have health benefits due to its probiotic-rich yogurt base.

Lyutenitsa

Lyutenitsa is a delectable vegetable spread or relish made from roasted peppers, tomatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic. It can be smooth or chunky and is typically seasoned with salt, sugar, and black pepper. Often eaten with bread or as a condiment, lyutenitsa is a staple in Bulgarian pantries.

Sarmi

Sarmi are cabbage or vine leaves stuffed with a filling of rice, minced meat, and various spices. They can be served as a main dish or an appetizer and are particularly popular during festive seasons, especially Christmas and Easter.

Chushka Burek

Chushka Burek refers to peppers stuffed with a mixture of eggs and cheese, then breaded and deep-fried. This dish is a favorite appetizer or side and showcases the Bulgarian love for fresh vegetables and dairy.

Gyuvech

Gyuvech is an oven-baked stew named after the traditional earthenware pot in which it is cooked. It includes a variety of ingredients such as meat, onions, peppers, tomatoes, eggplants, and spices, often topped with an egg and sirene cheese before serving.

Bob Chorba

Bob Chorba is a hearty bean soup made with white beans, vegetables, meat (typically sausage), and a blend of spices. It is a staple during the winter months and is sometimes garnished with fresh mint.

Bulgarian Desserts

Baklava

Baklava is a sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts, sweetened with syrup or honey. It is a dessert that is shared with Turkish and Greek cuisines but has found its own unique variations in Bulgaria.

Kozunak

Kozunak is a traditional Bulgarian sweet bread that is similar to the Italian panettone. It is typically prepared for Easter and is characterized by its fluffy texture and rich flavor, often containing raisins, nuts, and citrus zest.

Tikvenik

Tikvenik is a Bulgarian variation of banitsa, filled with sweet pumpkin and flavored with walnuts and cinnamon. It's a popular dessert in the autumn and winter, especially during Christmas.

Mekitsa

Mekitsa is a deep-fried dough similar to a donut but flatter and typically served with powdered sugar, jam, or honey. It is a favorite Bulgarian breakfast treat, often accompanied by a cup of ayran, a salty yogurt drink.

Garash Cake

The Garash cake is a rich and decadent dessert made from layers of walnut sponge cake, joined together with a light chocolate cream and topped with a chocolate glaze. It is a beloved classic in Bulgarian patisseries and for special occasions.