Pasulj

Pasulj, also known as Grah, is a cherished bean soup enjoyed in many Balkan countries, including Albania, Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia, Croatia, and Slovenia. This comforting dish is typically prepared with white, cranberry, pinto, or sometimes kidney beans, and often features smoked meats like bacon, sausage, and ham hock. Carrots and onions are commonly added, making Pasulj a perfect hearty meal for the winter months.

There's even a variation called Prebranac, which uses baked beans for a different twist. Pasulj has spread to various parts of the world through diaspora communities and is often referred to as Serbian bean soup in English and Serbische Bohnensuppe in German-speaking regions.

In North Macedonia, you'll find a spicier, thicker version of this dish known as Gravče na tavče. Interestingly, in Serbian culture, there's a popular saying "prosto kao pasulj" which translates to "simple as pasulj." It's similar to the English expression "as easy as pie" or the French "simple comme chou" reflecting how straightforward and comforting this dish is to make and enjoy.