Southeast Europe
Food of Bulgaria
The 6 most iconic national dishes of Bulgaria — real photos, key ingredients and tasty facts behind every plate.
Europe
Banitsa
A beloved Bulgarian pastry made by layering filo with a filling of whisked eggs and sirene cheese, then baking it until golden and flaky. It is rich, savoury and deeply associated with home cooking and holidays.
Did you know?
On New Year's Eve, many Bulgarians make lucky banitsa with hidden charms or written fortunes tucked inside.
Tarator
A cold yogurt soup with cucumbers, garlic and dill, served especially in summer. It is creamy, refreshing and lightly tangy, often finished with walnuts and oil.
Did you know?
Tarator is one of the signature Balkan cold soups, and in Bulgaria it is especially tied to the country's long yogurt tradition.
Shopska salad
A fresh salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and onions topped generously with grated sirene cheese. Its crisp vegetables and salty cheese make it a classic starter across Bulgaria.
Did you know?
Its red, green and white colours are often said to echo the Bulgarian national flag.
Kavarma
A hearty baked stew of meat, onions and peppers, often cooked in an earthenware pot. It is savoury, aromatic and commonly enriched with mushrooms, tomatoes or wine.
Did you know?
Kavarma is traditionally prepared and served in individual clay pots, which help concentrate its flavour.
Kyufte
These Bulgarian grilled minced-meat patties are seasoned simply and cooked over open heat. They are juicy, smoky and a staple of taverns, barbecues and casual meals.
Did you know?
Bulgarian kyufte are closely related to köfte traditions across the former Ottoman world, but locals recognise their own seasoning style immediately.
Shkembe chorba
A strong tripe soup usually made with milk, garlic and vinegar, often served very hot. It has a rich, pungent character and a devoted following, especially as a restorative meal.
Did you know?
Shkembe chorba has a reputation in Bulgaria as a classic hangover cure, commonly customised at the table with extra garlic, vinegar and hot pepper.