Lička kalja

Lička kalja is traditional stew from Lika and Gorski Kotar regions of Croatia, made with lamb or mutton, cabbage, potatoes and other local vegetables. It is a variety of better known Bosnian kalja, main difference being the consistency (Bosnian is thicker) and the meat used (today, Bosnian kalja is mostly made with with veal).

Lička kalja was a product of necessity for the poor shepherd families in the destitute mountain regions of Lika and Gorski Kotar, who utilized the animals they were herding and vegetables growing in their yards for most of their dishes. Nevertheless, lička kalja is a highly nutritive meal, and was also used as a cold remedy and a way to keep warm during the harsh winter days and nights. Although nowadays somewhat forgotten, efforts are being made to revive this tasty and healthy dish, and it can be found more and more often on the menus of the local traditional restaurants.