The Ultimate Guide to Balkan Food (2025)

When I think about Balkan food, I think of home. I think of the rich aromas wafting from my mother-in-law Olja’s kitchen, the laughter of family gathered around the table, and the deep cultural roots that each dish represents. Balkan cuisine is so much more than food—it’s tradition, history, and love served on a plate.

As the owner of Balkan Bakery, I’ve had the privilege of sharing these incredible flavors with our community in La Grange, Illinois. Over the years, I’ve noticed that while many people are curious about Balkan food, they often don’t know where to start. That’s exactly why I’ve created this guide—to take you on a journey through the heart of Balkan cuisine, dish by dish, and help you discover the magic of this extraordinary culinary tradition.

What is Balkan Food?

Balkan food is a vibrant tapestry of flavors and traditions that span multiple countries, including Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia, Montenegro and Macedonia.. Influenced by Ottoman, Mediterranean, Austro-Hungarian, and Slavic cultures, it’s a cuisine that celebrates diversity and simplicity.

From hearty pastries like burek to sweet delights like baklava, Balkan food is all about bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and recipes passed down through generations. Whether you’re new to this cuisine or a lifelong fan, there’s always something new to discover.

The Staples of Balkan Cuisine

No guide to Balkan food would be complete without diving into the staples—the dishes that define this region and its culinary heritage. Here are some must-try items that you’ll find at Balkan Bakery and beyond:

1. Burek

Burek is the ultimate comfort food. This flaky, golden pastry is traditionally filled with savory ingredients like cheese, spinach, or ground meat, though sweet variations exist too. At Balkan Bakery, our cheese burek is a customer favorite, made fresh daily using Olja’s authentic recipe.

2. Ajvar

This smoky red pepper spread is a staple in every Balkan household. Whether you’re slathering it on bread, pairing it with cevapi, or using it as a dip, ajvar adds a burst of flavor to any meal.

3. Cevapi

Cevapi are small, skinless sausages made from a mix of beef and lamb. They’re grilled to perfection and typically served with flatbread, onions, and a dollop of ajvar. Trust me, one bite, and you’ll be hooked.

4. Baklava

A sweet, sticky, and utterly irresistible dessert, baklava is made with layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and honey or syrup. It’s a labor of love, but the result is worth every minute.

5. Plazma Keks

If you grew up in the Balkans, you probably have fond memories of Plazma Keks. These iconic biscuits are a childhood staple, perfect for snacking or using as a base in desserts like the famous Plazma torta.

6. Rakija

No Balkan celebration is complete without rakija, a potent fruit brandy that’s as much a cultural symbol as it is a drink. Whether it’s plum, pear, or quince, each sip is a taste of tradition.

The Role of Food in Balkan Culture

In the Balkans, food is never just food—it’s a way to connect, celebrate, and honor traditions. Every dish tells a story, whether it’s the bajadera pralines served at weddings or prepared for religious holidays.

Take, for example, the tradition of Slava in Serbia. This Orthodox Christian celebration honors a family’s patron saint with a feast that includes bread, wine, and a variety of traditional dishes. It’s a time for gratitude, reflection, and, of course, incredible food.

At Balkan Bakery, we’ve had the honor of preparing custom cakes and pastries for countless Slava celebrations. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love what I do—helping families create memories through food.

Modern Twists on Traditional Favorites

While I’m a firm believer in preserving tradition, I also love experimenting with modern twists on classic Balkan dishes. For example, our crepe menu at the bakery features both traditional and contemporary flavors, from Nutella and Blackforest to smoked salmon and spinach & feta.

We’ve also introduced vegan options and gourmet croissants to cater to a broader audience. It’s all about keeping the essence of Balkan cuisine alive while making it accessible to everyone.

How to Create the Ultimate Balkan Feast

If you’re feeling inspired to try your hand at Balkan cooking, here’s a step-by-step guide to creating the ultimate feast:

1. Start with Appetizers

• Serve a platter of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and ajvar.

• Add some fresh bread or pogaca for dipping.

  
  
  
  

  

  
  
  
  

2. Main Course Options

• Cevapi with flatbread, onions, and ajvar.

• A hearty slice of cheese or meat burek.

3. Sides and Salads

• Shopska salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and feta.

• Roasted vegetables or sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls).

4. Dessert

• End with a selection of sweets like baklava, krempita (cream pie), and bajadera pralines.

• Pair with a glass of rakija or Turkish coffee for the perfect finish.

Where to Find Authentic Balkan Food

If you’re in the La Grange area, I’d love for you to visit Balkan Bakery. We take pride in offering a wide range of traditional and modern Balkan treats, all made from scratch with premium ingredients.

For those who can’t make it to the bakery, here are some tips for finding authentic Balkan food:

• Explore local restaurants that serve Balkan cuisine.

• Try online retailers for hard-to-find items.

  
  

Why Balkan Food Deserves a Spot on Your Table

Balkan food is more than just a culinary experience—it’s a celebration of culture, history, and community. It’s the kind of food that brings people together, whether it’s over a casual lunch or a festive holiday feast.

At Balkan Bakery, our mission is to share the flavors and traditions of the Balkans with our community. Every time someone tries our burek for the first time or discovers the joy of bajadera pralines, I feel like we’re keeping a piece of our heritage alive.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Balkan food or discovering it for the first time, I hope this guide has inspired you to explore the rich flavors and traditions of this incredible cuisine.

And remember, food is more than just sustenance—it’s a way to connect with others, honor traditions, and create memories that last a lifetime. So why not start your journey into Balkan cuisine today?

From my family to yours, I wish you happy feasting and unforgettable moments around the table.

With love,

Marija Pejkovic

Owner of Balkan Bakery