25+ Easy and Delicious Serbian Bread Recipes to Try at Home

Bread holds a special place in Serbian culture, symbolizing nourishment, community, and tradition. From festive occasions to everyday meals, Serbian bread varieties showcase a rich tapestry of flavors and textures that reflect the country’s culinary heritage.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, these 25+ Serbian bread recipes offer a delightful exploration into the world of traditional baking.

Each recipe, infused with love and history, promises to transport you to the heart of Serbia, where bread is more than just a staple—it’s a cherished ritual.

Join us as we delve into the delicious realm of Serbian breads, where you’ll discover everything from savory rolls and festive loaves to comforting flatbreads and sweet treats.

Let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking!

25+ Easy and Delicious Serbian Bread Recipes to Try at Home

Exploring the world of Serbian bread recipes not only fills your kitchen with delightful aromas but also connects you with a culture steeped in tradition. Each loaf and roll tells a story, celebrating the rich agricultural landscape of Serbia and the creativity of its people.

Whether you’re preparing a festive dish for a special occasion or looking for a comforting side for your daily meals, these 25+ recipes offer something for everyone.

Embrace the joy of baking, share these creations with loved ones, and experience the warmth of Serbian hospitality through its bread.

Happy baking!

Pogača (Traditional Serbian Bread)

Pogača is a staple in Serbian cuisine, often enjoyed during celebrations, holidays, and family gatherings.

This round, flatbread is soft, fluffy, and has a slightly crispy crust. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a beloved choice, whether served with savory dishes or enjoyed plain.

The dough can also be flavored with herbs or cheese for added depth.

Ingredients:

• 500g all-purpose flour
• 250ml warm water
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 packet (7g) dry yeast
• Optional: sesame seeds for topping

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
6. Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. If desired, brush the top with water and sprinkle sesame seeds over it.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.

Pogača is more than just a bread; it’s a symbol of hospitality and tradition in Serbian culture. Its comforting aroma and soft texture make it the perfect accompaniment to a wide array of dishes, from hearty stews to creamy dips.

Sharing this bread with friends and family fosters a sense of togetherness, embodying the spirit of Serbian gatherings. Enjoy it fresh, or use leftovers to create delicious sandwiches the next day!

Česnica (Serbian Christmas Bread)

Česnica is a traditional Serbian bread served during Christmas celebrations. This festive loaf is often baked with a hidden coin or other trinket inside, symbolizing prosperity for the year ahead.

The bread is typically decorated with intricate designs, making it a centerpiece of the holiday table. Its rich flavor and symbolism enhance the joyous spirit of the season.

Ingredients:

• 1kg all-purpose flour
• 500ml warm milk
• 100g sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 packets (14g) dry yeast
• 2 large eggs
• 100g melted butter
• Optional: 1 coin wrapped in foil

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Add the yeast and let it activate for about 10 minutes until bubbly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, eggs, and melted butter.
3. Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 15 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm area for 1-2 hours until it has doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. If using a coin, knead it into the dough carefully.
6. Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
7. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
8. Optionally, create a decorative design on the surface of the loaf using a sharp knife.
9. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
10. Allow to cool before serving.

The ritual of breaking Česnica on Christmas brings families together, reflecting on the past year while looking forward to the future.

The hidden coin adds an exciting element to the celebration, encouraging discussions about hopes and dreams.

This bread is more than just a dish; it encapsulates love, tradition, and the warmth of family gatherings, making every bite a cherished memory.

Burek (Savory Pastry with Bread Base)

Burek is a popular Serbian pastry, traditionally made with layers of thin dough filled with various ingredients. This version incorporates a bread base, making it a hearty option for meals or snacks.

The crispy, flaky exterior contrasts beautifully with the flavorful filling, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.

Ingredients:

• 500g all-purpose flour
• 250ml warm water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 300g ground meat (beef or lamb)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and olive oil. Gradually add warm water, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it cool.
3. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
4. Roll out the dough into a thin sheet and cut it into squares.
5. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture in the center of each square and fold to create a triangle or rectangle shape. Seal the edges tightly.
6. Brush each pastry with beaten egg and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Burek is a versatile dish that can be filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, making it perfect for any occasion. The bread base adds a satisfying heartiness to this beloved pastry, making it a perfect companion for yogurt or a fresh salad.

Sharing Burek with friends and family not only delights the taste buds but also encourages communal eating, enhancing the overall dining experience.

This dish is a celebration of flavors and a testament to the richness of Serbian culinary traditions.

Vojvođanski Hleb (Vojvodina-Style Bread)

Vojvođanski hleb is a hearty, rustic bread that hails from the Vojvodina region of Serbia. This bread is known for its dense texture and slightly chewy crust, making it an excellent companion for rich stews and hearty meals.

It is often made with a combination of white and whole wheat flour, giving it a wholesome flavor. This traditional recipe is perfect for baking on weekends when you have time to enjoy the process.

Ingredients:

• 400g all-purpose flour
• 100g whole wheat flour
• 400ml warm water
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 packet (7g) dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: caraway seeds or sunflower seeds for topping

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose and whole wheat flours with salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Mix the ingredients together until a rough dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 10-15 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).
6. Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If using, sprinkle caraway seeds or sunflower seeds on top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Allow to cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Vojvođanski hleb embodies the essence of traditional Serbian baking with its rustic charm and robust flavor. This bread is perfect for accompanying rich dishes or serving as a base for delicious sandwiches.

The hearty texture makes it a favorite in many households, especially during colder months when hearty meals are a staple.

Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted with a bit of butter, this bread is sure to become a beloved addition to your baking repertoire.

Kiflice (Serbian Crescent Rolls)

Kiflice are delightful crescent-shaped rolls often filled with various ingredients such as cheese, jam, or meat.

They are a popular choice for breakfast or as a snack, and their flaky, buttery texture makes them irresistible.

These rolls can be made sweet or savory, making them versatile enough to suit any palate.

Ingredients:

• 500g all-purpose flour
• 250g unsalted butter, softened
• 250ml warm milk
• 1 packet (7g) dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs (1 for brushing)
• Filling of your choice (e.g., cheese, jam, or ham)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
3. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and one egg. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
6. Divide the dough into two parts. Roll each part into a circle about ½ cm thick and cut it into 8-12 wedges.
7. Place a spoonful of your desired filling at the wide end of each wedge, then roll it up towards the point to form a crescent shape.
8. Place the rolled kiflice on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with the remaining beaten egg.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Kiflice are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed at any time of day, making them a perfect addition to family gatherings, brunches, or picnics. Their flaky, buttery texture pairs beautifully with a variety of fillings, allowing you to customize them to suit your taste.

These rolls are not only delicious but also evoke a sense of nostalgia for many, often reminding them of family traditions and cozy kitchen moments.

Serve them warm, and watch as they quickly disappear!

Pogača sa Krompirom (Potato Bread)

Pogača sa krompirom is a comforting Serbian bread that incorporates mashed potatoes into the dough, resulting in a soft and fluffy texture. This bread is ideal for serving with soups, stews, or as a standalone snack.

The addition of potatoes not only enhances the flavor but also increases the bread’s moisture, making it a delightful option for any meal.

Ingredients:

• 500g all-purpose flour
• 200g mashed potatoes (cooled)
• 250ml warm milk
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 packet (7g) dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: herbs (e.g., rosemary or thyme) for flavor

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the mashed potatoes and mix until combined.
3. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
7. Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. If desired, sprinkle with herbs for added flavor.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Allow to cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Pogača sa krompirom is a delightful twist on traditional bread, offering a unique flavor and texture that is sure to please. The addition of mashed potatoes not only makes the bread incredibly moist but also gives it a comforting quality that pairs well with a variety of dishes.

This bread is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or simply enjoying with butter and herbs. Baking this bread fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma, making it a cherished recipe in any home.

Lepinja (Serbian Flatbread)

Lepinja is a soft and fluffy flatbread commonly found in Serbian cuisine. It’s especially popular as the base for hearty dishes like Ćevapi (grilled sausages) or pljeskavica (Serbian burger).

This bread has a light, airy texture with a slightly crispy outer crust, making it perfect for soaking up the flavors of meaty dishes, spreads, or dips.

Easy to make, lepinja is a versatile bread that can also be enjoyed on its own.

Ingredients:

• 500g all-purpose flour
• 300ml warm water
• 1 packet (7g) dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 250°C (480°F).
6. Punch down the dough and divide it into 4-6 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round, flat disc, about 1-1.5 cm thick.
7. Place the discs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let them rise again for about 20 minutes.
8. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until puffed up and golden brown.
9. Let the lepinja cool slightly before serving.

Lepinja is the perfect bread to accompany traditional Serbian dishes, offering a light, fluffy texture with a subtly crisp exterior. Its ability to pair well with both savory and sweet toppings makes it a versatile choice for any meal.

Whether used to serve Ćevapi or filled with cheese and cold cuts, lepinja’s soft and airy crumb enhances the flavors of your favorite Serbian recipes.

This bread is a must-try for those looking to explore authentic Serbian cuisine.

Proja (Cornbread)

Proja is a traditional Serbian cornbread that is simple, rustic, and deeply comforting. Made primarily with cornmeal, it is a popular side dish to pair with stews, grilled meats, or salads.

Proja has a slightly crumbly texture with a golden crust, and though the recipe is basic, it can be enhanced with ingredients like cheese, yogurt, or herbs for added flavor.

This easy-to-make bread is perfect for a quick meal or snack.

Ingredients:

• 300g cornmeal
• 200g all-purpose flour
• 200ml yogurt
• 100ml vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 packet baking powder (10g)
• Optional: 100g feta cheese or chopped herbs for flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and grease a baking dish or muffin tin.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, oil, and eggs until smooth.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined. If using feta cheese or herbs, fold them into the batter.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish or muffin tin, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes (for muffins) or 30-35 minutes (for a single large loaf), or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the proja to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Proja is a beloved comfort food in Serbian households, thanks to its simplicity and versatility. Its crumbly yet moist texture makes it a perfect pairing for rich dishes like sarma (cabbage rolls) or goulash.

Adding cheese or herbs to the batter elevates the flavor, making proja a great option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whether served as a side or enjoyed on its own, this Serbian cornbread is an easy and satisfying dish to make.

Gibanica (Serbian Cheese Pie)

Gibanica is a traditional Serbian cheese pie that layers thin sheets of phyllo dough with a creamy cheese and egg filling. Though technically a pie, its bread-like layers of phyllo make it a popular bread alternative in Serbia.

Gibanica is often served during celebrations and holidays, as well as a comforting meal for any time of day. Its rich and savory flavor, combined with its flaky, golden texture, makes it a household favorite.

Ingredients:

• 500g phyllo dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 400g cottage cheese or feta cheese (or a mix)
• 4 large eggs
• 200ml sour cream
• 100ml vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 100ml sparkling water (for extra fluffiness)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a rectangular baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, crumble the cheese and mix it with eggs, sour cream, oil, and salt until smooth. Add sparkling water to lighten the mixture.
3. Lay one sheet of phyllo dough at the bottom of the greased baking dish, letting the edges hang over the sides.
4. Brush the dough with a little oil, then spread a layer of the cheese mixture over it.
5. Repeat the process, layering phyllo dough and cheese filling, until you run out of filling. Fold the overhanging dough over the top to create a sealed pie.
6. Brush the top layer with oil and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Let the gibanica cool for a few minutes before cutting and serving.

Gibanica is a rich and satisfying dish that perfectly balances the creamy, salty flavors of the cheese with the light, flaky texture of phyllo dough.

This dish has long been a staple of Serbian festivities, and its versatility allows it to be served as a main course, side dish, or even a snack.

The soft, cheesy filling and golden crust make every bite of gibanica a delightful experience, bringing a taste of traditional Serbian cuisine to your table.

Somun (Traditional Flatbread)

Somun is a soft, airy flatbread traditionally served with Ćevapi or other grilled meats. Originating in the Balkans, this bread is similar to pita but slightly thicker and with a pillowy texture.

Its characteristic puffiness makes it perfect for stuffing with meats, salads, or spreads, and it is often enjoyed fresh from the oven, still warm and tender.

Ingredients:

• 500g all-purpose flour
• 300ml warm water
• 1 packet (7g) dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 250°C (480°F) and place a baking stone or sheet in the oven to heat up.
6. Divide the dough into 4-6 pieces and roll each into a flat, round shape about 1 cm thick.
7. Place the dough rounds onto parchment paper and bake on the hot stone or sheet for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Somun is a delightful bread that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, especially grilled meats like Ćevapi. Its soft, pillowy texture and slightly crisp edges make it versatile enough for stuffing or simply tearing apart to dip into sauces or spreads.

Freshly baked somun brings a warm, comforting flavor to any meal, making it a beloved staple in Serbian cuisine.

Srpska Pogača (Serbian Festive Bread)

Srpska Pogača is a traditional round bread often prepared for special occasions such as Slava (Serbian Orthodox family celebrations) or holidays.

This bread has a rich, soft texture and is typically braided or shaped into a decorative round loaf. It’s slightly sweet and buttery, making it an excellent choice for celebratory meals, often accompanied by savory dishes like roasted meats or cheeses.

Ingredients:

• 500g all-purpose flour
• 250ml warm milk
• 1 packet (7g) dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 50g melted butter
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, egg, melted butter, and vegetable oil.
3. Mix the ingredients together until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes on a floured surface until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
6. Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope and braid them together. Form the braid into a circle and place it on a greased baking sheet.
7. Let the dough rise for another 20-30 minutes.
8. Brush the top of the bread with egg wash and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and baked through.
9. Allow the pogača to cool slightly before serving.

Srpska Pogača is not just a bread; it’s a centerpiece for festive gatherings. Its soft, buttery flavor combined with its elegant braided design makes it the perfect bread for special occasions.

The slightly sweet dough complements a wide range of dishes, from savory roasted meats to light salads or spreads. This celebratory bread brings a touch of tradition and warmth to any table.

Cicvara (Cornmeal and Cheese Bread)

Cicvara is a rich, traditional bread made with cornmeal, cheese, and butter, often considered a hybrid between bread and porridge.

This comforting dish is typically served hot and can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish with meats and stews.

It is deeply rooted in Serbian rural cuisine and offers a hearty, filling option perfect for cold days.

Ingredients:

• 300g cornmeal
• 200g white cheese (such as feta or Serbian kajmak)
• 100g butter
• 500ml water
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, bring the water and salt to a boil.
2. Gradually add the cornmeal while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
3. Reduce the heat to low and continue stirring until the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
4. Add the butter and cheese to the cornmeal mixture, stirring until both are melted and fully incorporated.
5. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Once the cicvara has reached a thick, creamy consistency, remove it from the heat and serve hot.

Cicvara is the ultimate comfort food, offering a rich, creamy texture and savory flavor that’s sure to satisfy. The combination of cornmeal, cheese, and butter creates a hearty dish that pairs wonderfully with meats or vegetables, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

Whether served as a side or enjoyed on its own, cicvara is a testament to the simplicity and heartiness of traditional Serbian cooking.

Kiflice (Serbian Crescent Rolls)

Kiflice are delicate, buttery crescent rolls that are a popular part of Serbian cuisine, often served during festive occasions or simply enjoyed with a cup of coffee.

These rolls can be either savory or sweet, filled with cheese, ham, or jam, depending on the occasion.

Their soft, fluffy texture and slightly golden crust make them irresistible, whether served as breakfast, a snack, or a side to savory meals.

Ingredients:

• 500g all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (7g) dry yeast
• 250ml warm milk
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 100g butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 100g soft cheese (feta or cream cheese) for filling (optional)
• 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
• Sesame seeds for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs, and knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
3. Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Divide the dough into four equal parts. Roll each part into a circle about ½ cm thick, and then cut the circle into 8 triangles.
6. Place a teaspoon of cheese or any desired filling at the wider end of each triangle and roll it towards the tip, forming a crescent shape.
7. Place the crescent rolls on the prepared baking sheet, brush them with egg yolk, and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the kiflice are golden brown and puffed.
9. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Kiflice are a beloved part of Serbian culinary traditions, offering a light and buttery texture that can be enjoyed with both savory and sweet fillings.

Their versatility makes them perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply as a warm snack.

These delightful crescent rolls are sure to become a favorite once you experience their melt-in-your-mouth softness.

Slavski Kolač (Serbian Slava Bread)

Slavski Kolač, also known as Serbian Slava Bread, is a special round bread prepared for the Slava celebration, a Serbian Orthodox tradition.

This bread is rich in symbolism, representing the breaking of bread and the sharing of family heritage.

Slavski Kolač is intricately decorated with dough patterns, often featuring crosses, wheat, and other symbolic designs, making it both a beautiful and delicious centerpiece for the table.

Ingredients:

• 600g all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (7g) dry yeast
• 250ml warm milk
• 100g butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 100ml water
• 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and water. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
3. Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a round baking pan.
5. Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it in the prepared pan.
6. Decorate the top of the bread with dough cutouts of crosses or wheat shapes, symbolizing the Slava tradition.
7. Brush the top with egg yolk and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
8. Let the bread cool before serving it at the Slava table.

Slavski Kolač is more than just bread; it’s a symbol of Serbian Orthodox heritage and a key part of the Slava celebration. Its soft, rich texture and beautiful decorations make it the perfect bread to honor family traditions.

Whether you bake it for a special occasion or simply to experience a meaningful piece of Serbian culture, Slavski Kolač is both delicious and symbolic.

Popara (Bread Porridge)

Popara is a traditional Serbian dish made from leftover bread, milk, and butter, often served as a warm breakfast or snack.

This simple, comforting dish is commonly found in rural Serbian households and is loved for its frugality and heartwarming taste.

The bread absorbs the milk and butter, creating a soft, creamy texture that’s perfect for cold mornings. Popara can be sweetened with sugar or honey or left savory, depending on personal preference.

Ingredients:

• 300g stale bread, cut into cubes
• 500ml milk
• 50g butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Optional: Sugar or honey for sweet version

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, bring the milk to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
2. Add the cubed stale bread to the milk, stirring occasionally until the bread absorbs the liquid and becomes soft, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add butter and salt, stirring until the butter melts and combines with the bread.
4. For a savory version, serve as is. For a sweet version, drizzle honey or sprinkle sugar on top before serving.
5. Serve hot, and enjoy this comforting dish.

Popara is the epitome of Serbian comfort food, using simple ingredients to create a warm, nourishing dish that’s perfect for any time of day.

Its versatility, with the option to make it either sweet or savory, makes it a beloved meal in many households.

Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic breakfast or a filling snack, Popara delivers both comfort and flavor with minimal effort.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!