Top 10 foods to try in Dalmatia
1. Black risotto
This authentic Dalmatian dish got its name from the squid ink, which paints it black. Maybe it’s not the most „insta-friendly“ dish since it will turn your teeth black, but trust us, it’s worth it.
2. Brodetto (Brudet)
Brodetto, also called brudet, is a stew made with fish and all sorts of seafood usually served with polenta and a glass of Dalmatian red wine.
3. Fritule
Traditionally Fritule was served during the holidays, but today you can enjoy them all year long. They are simple but very delicious mini donuts; we dare you to try and eat only one of them.
4. Prosciutto
Prosciutto is one of the trademarks of Dalmatia, on every special occasion, it has a special place on the table. It is dry-cured pork, usually served thinly sliced alongside cheese, olives, and bread.
5. Pag Island Cheese
Sheep’s cheese from the island of Pag is Croatia’s best cheese that won many international awards. It is made only on the Island of Pag, but you can buy it all around the country.
6. Peka
Peka is made of veal, chicken, lamb, or octopus with vegetables under a heavy iron-cast bell in an open fireplace. This dish is one of the top gastronomic offers in the Dalmatian cuisine. You can try it in most Dalmatian restaurants, but keep in mind that it needs to be ordered a day in advance.
7. Pašticada
Pašticada is the ultimate dish from Dalmatia. It is made of a slow-cooked beef prepared in a creamy sauce usually served with gnocchi. There isn’t one way to make an authentic pašticada, pretty much every family here has its version of this tasty dish.
8. Soparnik
Soparnik is the first Croatian dish that has earned the status of cultural heritage. It is a simple pie filled with vegetables, prepared from ingredients that were available to every family, traditionally cut into rhombical pieces.
9. Octopus salad
This simple, fresh, and delicious dish is a perfect example of authentic Dalmatian cuisine. Usually, it is made of boiled octopus, chopped onion, parsley, olive oil, and vinegar. It is is one of the most popular dishes served in restaurants in Dalmatia, so if you decide to try it during your stay here, you will find it easily.
10. Rozata
Rozata is a traditional Dalmatian dessert that was included in the list of Croatian culinary heritage dishes. Some people would describe it as a Dalmatian version of the french Creme Brulee or the Spanish crema Catalana. It got it“s name after liqueur made from roses known as Rosalin or Rozulin.