Macedonia continues to spark interest across the globe as it’s a destination that still hasn’t been explored by many travellers. This makes it still a country that hasn’t been touched too much by the traveller footprint. Recently, many people are learning that Macedonia holds an incredible history, beautiful landscapes and of course, delicious food.
Growing up in a Macedonian family, I got to experience all of the goods. From desserts to main dishes and spreads, Macedonian cuisine is a lot more than you might think. Below, I’ve gathered some of my current (and childhood) favourites that I think everyone needs to try.
Tavche Gravche
Every Friday my Baba (aka Grandma) makes this and it’s probably the best baked beans you can get in Toronto. Made with fresh beans, onion and spices you really can’t go wrong. What’s great about this dish is that it not only tastes good, but is really healthy. Though not exactly a childhood favourite amongst Macedonian youngsters, but as we all get older we learned to love this flavourful dinner option.
Want to try making it? Check out this recipe.
Kebapi
You can smell Ćevapi from a mile away, and once you do you’re running for the kitchen or barbeque. Ćevapi is essentially minced meat shaped like small sausages, which means you can eat way more than just two and not feel THAT bad. Traditionally they are cooked on a wooden charcoal grill, but barbeques or even a good old pan on the stove will do.
Want to try making it? Check out this recipe.
Polneti Piperki
Polneti Piperki, also known as stuffed peppers, started growing on me later in my twenties and I wish I fell in love with this dish earlier. This dish is dear to every Macedonian’s heart and it could very well be considered the country’s national dish. These peppers are traditionally stuffed with rice, minced meat, onion and various spices.
Want to try making it? Check out this recipe.
Ajvar
Sure, it’s not an actual dish but it’s a big part of Macedonian cuisine. Each year, when my family roasts peppers, we also make jars upon jars of this delicious relish. Ajvar is made with mainly roasted bell peppers (use red bell peppers, they’re the best), garlic and sunflower oil. My favourite way to eat Ajvar is on toast sprinkled with some salty feta cheese.
Want to try making it? Check out this recipe.
Turli Tava
This is a dish you’ll see often in Macedonia and the rest of the southern Balkans. Turli Tava is a vegetable and meat stew fit for kings and queens. Made out of potatoes, rice, okra, eggplant carrots, peppers (notice a trend with this ingredient?), pork, beef or lamb it’s irresistible. I remember coming home and walking into the door after school and knowing Turli Tava was about to be on a plate in front of me.
Want to try making it? Check out this recipe.
Mekici
It may not be solely a Macedonian thing but Mekici is a favourite for anyone who tries it. These light donuts are the perfect way to end a meal and you won’t be able to stop eating them. Since it’s basically fried dough, you can have some fun topping it with whatever you want. Some people like it with jam, but my favourite is a simple sprinkle of sugar.
Want to try making it? Check out this recipe.
Zelnik
My favourite and most often consumed Macedonian food is Zelnik. This traditional pastry is made with layers of phyllo and different combinations of filling. My personal favourite is a filling of feta cheese, egg and spinach. However, many people use a minced meat, pepper and onions with various spices. It’s perfect to bring as an appetizer to a party or just a snack.
Want to try making it? Check out this recipe.
Kifli
These fluffy, delicious cheese rolls are perfect for right after dinner. Whenever my Baba has these available, I eat at least 5 and fill a tupperware container for later. The dough is stuffed with feta cheese, folded over into a roll and topped with sesame seeds before baking. Though good hot and cold, fresh out of the oven is best.
Want to try making it? Check out this recipe.
Palacinki
Think of a crepe you would get in France, then add density to it. This pancake crepe hybrid is perfect for dessert, breakfast or dinner since you can fill it with anything. When I was younger, my Baba would make dozens of these (yes dozens) for all us cousins and each morning we would see who could eat the most. The record if you’re wondering was 17. You can fill these with jam, syrup, feta cheese (my favourite) and anything else.
Want to try making it? Check out this recipe.
Pogacha
Where to even start with this one. This is a Macedonian staple and once you try it, you’ll understand why this bread is perfect. It’s a hearty, dense bread perfect for when you’re celebrating with friends and family. My favourite time to eat some pogacha is right after dinner, with some feta cheese and kalamata olives.
Want to try making it? Check out this recipe.
Tulumba
This dessert is sweet and delicious. Quite similar to churros, Tulumba is a deep fried batter and soaked in syrup. They’re usually in bite-sized pieces so you can easily grab one (two, or three) and just pop them in your mouth. Tulumba is normally eaten cold and is actually a favourite in many areas of the Balkans.
Want to try making it? Check out this recipe.
Featured image by Aleksandar Bondikov
