Slatko

Slatko is a delightful fruit preserve that is a staple in Bulgarian, Macedonian, and Serbian kitchens. This sweet treat can be made from a variety of fruits, such as wild strawberries, blueberries, plums, cherries, and even rose petals. In Bulgarian and Serbian households, it is a warm tradition to welcome guests with a spoonful of slatko and a glass of water. If you are a special guest, you might even be offered a second serving, always with a fresh spoon. However, it is considered impolite to ask for a third unless it is offered to you.

Slatko isn’t just for welcoming guests; it also makes a fantastic topping for ice cream and waffle shortcakes, and it is a delicious filling for pancakes. There are many versions of slatko, featuring fruits like whole strawberries, plums, sour cherries, raspberries, sweet cherries, quinces, grapes, figs, peaches, blueberries, blackberries, and redcurrants. Sometimes, nuts like walnuts or almonds are added to plum slatko for extra flavor. Other interesting ingredients, such as rhubarb and physalis, can also be used. If you are using frozen berries or fruits, remember to adjust the water content and cooking time accordingly.

Enjoying slatko is more than just tasting a sweet preserve; it is about experiencing a piece of cultural hospitality and tradition.