TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best Croatian Foods
Slavonski kulen is the best-known delicacy of eastern Croatian cuisine. It is a cured sausage made from prime cuts of pork combined with carefully selected spices including red paprika and garlic. Kulen has a strong smoky flavor with the aromas of paprika and pepper.
Slavonian type of kulen must be produced using the meat of pigs that have been raised in Slavonia. Only the premium cuts of pork are used in the making of this sausage and every step of the production process is kept separated from that of all other sausages.
OTHER VARIATIONS OF Kulen
MAIN INGREDIENTS
One of the staples of traditional Turkish cuisine, sarma consists of a filling that is snugly surrounded by leaves or leafy vegetables. There are numerous versions of this dish but the mixture typically combines ingredients such as minced meat, rice or bulgur, various herbs, seasonings, red pepper, paprika, ground sumac, or tomato sauce, while the typical wrapping usually includes vine, cabbage, or sauerkraut leaves, or a variety of leafy vegetables such as collard greens and swiss chard.
Having its roots in the Ottoman Empire, sarma is also traditionally consumed in the Balkans, the countries of Central Europe, the South Caucasus, and the Middle East. Although it is commonly enjoyed as a filling lunch or dinner (typically during the winter season), sarma is often prepared on special occasions and holidays.
MOST ICONIC Sarma
View moreMAIN INGREDIENTS
Burek sa sirom is a phyllo pastry that is round or coil-shaped and filled with a mixture of cheese and eggs. The dough is made with flour, salt, and water (and perhaps a bit of oil) and stretched into translucent sheets. The sheets of phyllo dough are stacked in a large tray, and each sheet is sprinkled with oil or oil and mineral water and spread with the cheese and egg filling.
Still, you might have heard that burek can only be called burek if it's filled with meat. That is, if you live in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but not everyone does, nor is burek really Bosnian – in fact, it has Turkish origins. In Bosnia, burek (with meat) and other types of similar pies such as sirnica (cheese) and krumpiruša (potatoes) are usually rolled into a coil, while Croatians and Serbs have a more relaxed approach – burek can be round and cut into quarters, or rolled into a coil – both shapes are good, and both can be called burek sa sirom (when filled with cheese, of course).
Paški sir is a hard Croatian cheese originating from the island of Pag. The cheese is made from milk of the Pag sheep. The harsh bura wind dusts the island with sea salt, flavoring various herbs (such as immortelle, sage, and sea fennel) on which the sheep graze, and as a result their milk has a unique flavor.
This award-winning cheese is characterized by a dry, flaky, grainy, and crumbly texture, and a tangy, salty flavor. The cheese is typically rubbed with ash and olive oil, and it's then left to mature for at least four months. As it matures, the tangy and savory flavors become even stronger.
Dalmatinski pršut is a cured, smoked, and dried ham that is usually served thinly sliced alongside bread, cheese, or fruit such as melon. Unlike its Italian (prosciutto) and Istrian counterparts, the Dalmatian version of pršut is wood-smoked and dried for a minimum of twelve months.
It is produced with fresh pork legs, with the bone, skin and subcutaneous fat. After preparation, which includes dry-salting, pressing, and seasoning, it is smoked and left to dry and mature in the air. The final period is strongly influenced by the cold and dry Bora wind, which creates favorable conditions for maturation.
Pane e olio is an Italian phrase meaning bread and oil, referring to a simple yet classic Italian dish that highlights the quality of its basic ingredients: bread and olive oil. Traditional Italian bread such as ciabatta, focaccia, or a rustic country loaf is typically used, while extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the oil of choice due to its superior flavor and health benefits.
High-quality, cold-pressed olive oil from regions like Tuscany or Puglia is ideal. The bread is usually sliced and may be served fresh or lightly toasted, with toasting enhancing its texture and providing a warm base for the olive oil. The olive oil is typically poured into a small dish or bowl for dipping, though some variations may include a drizzle of olive oil directly on the bread slices.
Krapfen was probably the first European-style doughnut to appear, followed by similar varieties in other countries. These pastries are traditionally prepared with leavened dough that is deep-fried until golden and crispy on the outside, while they remain soft, light, and airy on the inside.
Though krapfen can be prepared plain, they are most often filled or topped with jams, and vanilla or chocolate custards, while the top is usually dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with chocolate. The origin of the word krapfen dates back to 9th century, and the recipes in German can be found as early as the 14th century.
Kotlovina is a traditional dish made by cooking various types of meat, sausages, and vegetables in a large, shallow plate that is placed over an open fire. The dish is typically prepared outdoors, often in gardens or courtyards. There are numerous recipes for kotlovina, but the meat is usually seasoned with salt, pepper, and oil.
It is recommended to serve the dish with roasted potatoes or a fresh salad on the side.
One of the staple ingredients of Croatian cuisine, Istrian pršut or prosciutto is a traditional cured and dried ham. It is usually served thinly sliced as an entree, alongside some artisanal bread and sheep or goat milk cheese. Its production is the simpler than those of other prosciuttos, as it is not smoked and is processed without its skin.
After its skin and fat are removed, it is salted with coarse salt, pressed and rubbed with the mixture of black pepper, garlic, and different herbs. It is then dried for a few months in the wind before it is left to mature and ferment for the final six to eight months.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Sir i vrhnje is a favorite food of many Croatians, made by simply mixing fresh cottage cheese with sour cream. There are plenty of variations, so some like to add smoked paprika powder, salt, pepper, or minced garlic to make it taste even better.
The dish is usually served for breakfast or as a light appetizer that can be paired with homemade sausages, bacon, sliced onions, or tomatoes. What was once a modest, humble dish is today an icon of Northwestern Croatian cuisine that can even be bought pre-made in many supermarkets, although the best sir i vrhnje is regularly sold at food markets.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best Croatian Food Producers
Agrolaguna, based in Porec, Croatia, is a producer of cheese, wine, and olive oil. The company manages significant agricultural activities, including dairy farming, which contributes to its cheese production. Agrolaguna's cheeses are made from the milk of cows grazed in local pastures, reflecting the regional characteristics and flavors of Istria.
These products are sold under the Lagune brand, with a variety of cheese types catering to different tastes and preferences.
AWARDS
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Global Cheese Awards - Gold
2023
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International Cheese Awards - Gold
2023, 2022
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World Cheese Awards - Gold
2022
BEST Agrolaguna Cheeses
Aura Distillery, located in Buzet, Istria, Croatia, is a family-run business specializing in the production of spirits, liqueurs, jams, and gins made from wild herbs and fruits harvested in unspoiled nature. Their products are entirely natural, with no additives, artificial flavors, or colorings.
The distillery offers a diverse range of 25 types of brandies and liqueurs, four types of gin, and nine types of jams, alongside products like extra virgin olive oil and elderflower vinegar. Their flagship product, Teranino, is a liqueur made from Teran red wine and ten spices, renowned for winning numerous gold medals at prestigious global competitions.
AWARDS
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European Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024, 2023
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European Spirits Challenge - Silver
2024
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London Spirits Competition - Gold
2024
BEST Aura Destillery Spirits
Oio Vivo is a premium extra virgin olive oil producer based in Istria, Croatia, known for its commitment to tradition, sustainability, and quality. Their olive groves, cultivated with organic practices, yield high-quality oils with a rich aroma and balanced flavor.
Oio Vivo’s oils are cold-pressed to preserve their natural freshness and nutritional benefits, making them a favorite among gourmet enthusiasts and chefs.
AWARDS
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NYIOOC - Gold
2023
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London IOOC - Gold
2022
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EVOOLEUM - Top 100
2024, 2023
BEST Oio Vivo Olive Oils
Vina Rossi, established in 1885, is a family-owned winery located in Vižinada, Istria, Croatia. With over 18 hectares of meticulously maintained vineyards, they cultivate indigenous Istrian grape varieties to produce high-quality wines and brandies.
Their portfolio includes labels such as Moro, Malvazija Templara, Templara Riserva, Rosé, Istrian Malvazija, Chardonnay, and Yellow Muscat. The fifth generation of the Rossi family continues to innovate while preserving traditional values, offering tasting experiences that showcase both their heritage and contemporary creations.
AWARDS
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European Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
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European Spirits Challenge - Silver
2024
BEST Rossi Destillery Spirits
Sirana Gligora, located in Croatia, specializes in producing artisan cheeses primarily from sheep's milk. The company was founded by Ivan Gligora in 1995 on the island of Pag. They are notably recognized for their flagship cheese, Paški sir, a hard sheep's milk cheese awarded internationally for its quality.
Sirana Gligora uses traditional cheese-making techniques integrated with modern technology.
AWARDS
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World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2022
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International Cheese Awards - Gold
2022
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Global Cheese Awards - Gold
2021
BEST Sirana Gligora Cheeses
OPG Rheos is an olive oil producer based in Novigrad, Croatia. The company specializes in producing high-quality extra virgin olive oil. OPG Rheos utilizes traditional methods combined with modern technology to ensure the quality and flavor of their olive oils.
The producer is part of the Istrian Peninsula, which is known for its favorable climate for olive cultivation.
AWARDS
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NYIOOC - Gold
2023
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EVO IOOC - Gold Medal
2021, 2020
BEST Opg Rheos Olive Oils
AWARDS
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EVOOLEUM - Top 100
2023
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EVOOLEUM - TOP10 HEALTHY EVOOs
2023
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EVOOLEUM - BEST OF EACH COUNTRY
2023
BEST Orna Olive Oils
Stancija St. Antonio is an olive oil producer located in Vodnjan, Croatia. They specialize in producing high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Their olive groves are maintained using traditional and eco-friendly practices. The company has received recognition for the quality of their olive oils in various competitions.
They offer products that are appreciated for their rich taste and nutritional value.
AWARDS
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NYIOOC - Gold
2023
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EVO IOOC - Gold Medal
2023, 2021
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London IOOC - Gold
2023, 2022
BEST Stancija St. Antonio Olive Oils
Avistria is an olive oil producer based in Istria, Croatia. They focus on producing high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Avistria's olive groves are located in the fertile regions of Istria, benefiting from the Mediterranean climate. The company employs both traditional and modern techniques to ensure the purity and flavor of their oil.
They also participate in local and international competitions where their products have been recognized.
AWARDS
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NYIOOC - Gold
2023
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Olive Japan - Gold
2022, 2020
BEST Vodice Olive Oils
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best Croatian Food Products
Oliveri Coratina is an olive oil produced by OPG Oliveri, located in the Istria region of Croatia. This extra virgin olive oil is made from the Coratina variety of olives, which are known for their high quality and intense flavor. Coratina olives are well-suited to the Mediterranean climate, producing an oil with robust, peppery, and fruity notes.
OPG Oliveri is dedicated to sustainable farming and high-quality production, ensuring that their oils are of premium quality, ideal for both culinary use and health benefits.
AWARDS
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ATHENA IOOC - Double Gold
2024, 2021, 2020
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ATHENA IOOC - Gold
2023, 2019
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EVO IOOC - Gold Medal
2022, 2021, 2020, 2019
AWARDS
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NYIOOC - Gold
2023
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EVO IOOC - Gold Medal
2023, 2021
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Olive Japan - Gold
2021
Oio Vivo Vodnjanska Buža is a premium olive oil produced by Oleum Maris. It is known for its high quality and distinct flavor profile, which is achieved through meticulous cultivation and processing methods. This olive oil is often praised for its rich taste and aromatic properties, making it a popular choice among culinary enthusiasts.
Each bottle is crafted with a focus on preserving the natural essence of the olives, reflecting the company's commitment to excellence in olive oil production.
AWARDS
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NYIOOC - Gold
2023
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EVOOLEUM - Top 100
2024, 2023
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EVOOLEUM - BEST FROM COUNTRY
2024
San Antonio Istarska Bjelica is a premium extra virgin olive oil produced by Stancija St. Antonio, a renowned estate located in Istria, Croatia. This particular olive oil is known for its exceptional quality and distinctive taste, characterized by its well-balanced fruity flavor and a hint of bitterness and spiciness.
The olives are meticulously harvested and cold-pressed to preserve their natural flavors and nutrients. Stancija St. Antonio is committed to sustainable farming practices, ensuring that San Antonio Istarska Bjelica embodies both purity and excellence.
AWARDS
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Terraolivo IOOC - Prestige Gold
2021
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ATHENA IOOC - Gold
2020
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EVOOLEUM - Top 100
2023
Aura Teranino is a renowned red wine liqueur produced by Aura Distillery in Istria, Croatia. Crafted from the indigenous Teran grape variety, this liqueur is infused with a blend of ten aromatic spices, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile.
It boasts a deep ruby-red color and offers enticing aromas of ripe cherries, milk chocolate, and cinnamon. On the palate, it is sweet and layered, with a lingering aftertaste reminiscent of cherry marmalade. With an alcohol content of 15.86%, Aura Teranino is best enjoyed chilled, either neat or over ice, and pairs well with desserts or as a standalone indulgence.
AWARDS
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European Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024, 2023
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London Spirits Competition - Gold
2024
AWARDS
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NYIOOC - Gold
2023
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EVO IOOC - Gold Medal
2021, 2020
AWARDS
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EVOOLEUM - Top 100
2023
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EVOOLEUM - TOP10 HEALTHY EVOOs
2023
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EVOOLEUM - BEST OF EACH COUNTRY
2023
Istriana Blend is a high-quality extra virgin olive oil crafted from a combination of carefully selected olive varieties grown in Istria. Known for its harmonious and rich flavor profile, it features fruity notes with hints of green grass, almond, and a mild peppery finish.
This versatile oil is perfect for enhancing a wide range of dishes, from fresh salads to grilled meats and vegetables.
AWARDS
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NYIOOC - Gold
2023
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Olive Japan - Gold
2021
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EVO IOOC - Gold Medal
2021
Ol Istria is a premium extra virgin olive oil produced by Agrolaguna, a reputable company based in Croatia. Known for its exceptional quality, the oil is made from hand-picked olives that are processed within a few hours to retain their fresh and robust flavor.
Ol Istria boasts a rich, fruity aroma with hints of almond and apple, paired with a well-balanced, slightly peppery finish. The product has received numerous awards at international olive oil competitions, reflecting its dedication to maintaining high standards.
AWARDS
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Terraolivo IOOC - Prestige Gold
2018
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Terraolivo IOOC - Gran Prestige Gold
2017
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Terraolivo IOOC - Top Ten
2017
Ol Istria Picholine is a premium olive oil produced by Agrolaguna, a company based in Croatia. This product is known for its high quality, derived from carefully selected Picholine olives, a variety originally from France but well-suited to the Istrian climate.
The olive oil boasts a robust flavor profile with a distinctive peppery finish, making it ideal for enhancing a variety of dishes. Meticulous harvesting and pressing processes ensure that Ol Istria Picholine maintains its exceptional taste and nutritional benefits.
AWARDS
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London IOOC - Gold
2022
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Terraolivo IOOC - Prestige Gold
2016, 2015
TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot, nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable. For the “Top 100 Croatian Foods” list until February 26, 2025, 8,469 ratings were recorded, of which 5,159 were recognized by the system as legitimate. TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods, instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.