18 Delicious Bulgarian Recipes Authentic

Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to Bulgaria without leaving your kitchen? Our roundup of 18 Delicious Bulgarian Recipes Authentic is your ticket to exploring the rich flavors and hearty dishes of this beautiful country. From savory banitsa to refreshing tarator, these recipes are perfect for home cooks looking to add some international flair to their meals. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Banitsa with Cheese

Perfect for breakfast or a snack, Banitsa with Cheese combines flaky layers with a rich, cheesy filling. This Bulgarian classic is surprisingly simple to make at home.

Ingredients

• Phyllo dough – 1 lb
• Feta cheese – 2 cups, crumbled
• Eggs – 3
• Butter – ½ cup, melted
• Yogurt – ½ cup

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a bowl, mix feta cheese, eggs, and yogurt until well combined.
3. Unroll phyllo dough. Cover with a damp towel to prevent drying.
4. Place one sheet of phyllo in the dish. Brush lightly with melted butter.
5. Repeat layering and buttering until half the phyllo is used.
6. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the phyllo layers.
7. Continue layering the remaining phyllo sheets, buttering each one.
8. Cut the Banitsa into squares before baking for easier serving.
9. Bake for 40 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
10. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Serve warm to enjoy the contrast between the crispy layers and soft, tangy cheese. For a twist, drizzle with honey or sprinkle with sesame seeds before baking.

Shopska Salad

Ready to dive into a refreshing, crunchy salad that’s as colorful as it is delicious? Shopska Salad, a Bulgarian classic, is your go-to for a quick, healthy meal. Here’s how to make it.

Ingredients

– Cucumber – 1 large, diced
– Tomatoes – 2 medium, diced
– Green bell pepper – 1, diced
– Red onion – ½, thinly sliced
– Feta cheese – ½ cup, crumbled
– Olive oil – 2 tbsp
– Red wine vinegar – 1 tbsp
– Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumber, tomatoes, green bell pepper, and thinly sliced red onion.
2. Sprinkle the salt over the vegetables and toss gently to combine. Tip: Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and red wine vinegar over the salad. Toss again to ensure everything is evenly coated. Tip: Adjust the vinegar for more tang if desired.
4. Add the crumbled feta cheese on top. Tip: For best flavor, use high-quality feta cheese.
5. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to enhance the crispness.
Hearty and vibrant, this Shopska Salad offers a perfect balance of crunchy vegetables and creamy feta. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair with grilled meats for a fuller meal.

Tarator

Perfect for summer, Tarator is a refreshing Bulgarian cold soup. It’s quick to make and packed with fresh flavors.

Ingredients

• Cucumber – 1 large, peeled and diced
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Walnuts – 1/2 cup, finely chopped
• Yogurt – 2 cups, plain
• Water – 1 cup, cold
• Dill – 2 tbsp, chopped
• Salt – 1 tsp
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumber, minced garlic, and chopped walnuts.
2. Add the plain yogurt to the bowl and mix well.
3. Slowly pour in the cold water, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Stir in the chopped dill and salt until evenly distributed.
5. Drizzle with olive oil just before serving for extra flavor.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to enhance the flavors.

With its creamy texture and nutty crunch, Tarator is a delight. Serve it chilled with a sprinkle of extra dill on top for a fresh finish.

Kavarma

Bold flavors define this Kavarma, a hearty dish perfect for any season. Its simplicity belies the depth of taste achieved with minimal ingredients.

Ingredients

• Pork shoulder – 2 lbs, cubed
• Onion – 1 large, sliced
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Paprika – 1 tbsp
• Tomato paste – 2 tbsp
• Water – 1 cup
• Salt – 1 tsp
• Black pepper – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pork cubes. Brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Tip: Do not overcrowd the pot to ensure even browning.
2. Add sliced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until onions are translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in paprika, tomato paste, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to blend flavors.
4. Pour in water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. Tip: The meat is done when it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Uncover. Increase heat to medium. Cook until sauce thickens, about 10 minutes. Tip: For a thicker sauce, let it reduce longer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Outstanding in its richness, Kavarma’s tender pork and thick sauce pair wonderfully with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes. The paprika lends a smoky sweetness that’s irresistibly comforting.

Musaka

Kick off your culinary adventure with Musaka, a hearty layered dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it combines simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Ingredients

• Ground beef – 1 lb
• Eggplant – 2 medium, sliced
• Tomato sauce – 2 cups
• Cheese – 1 cup, shredded
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Salt – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add ground beef and salt. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Tip: Drain excess fat for a lighter dish.
3. Layer eggplant slices at the bottom of a baking dish. Top with half the cooked beef.
4. Pour 1 cup tomato sauce over the beef. Repeat layers with remaining eggplant, beef, and tomato sauce.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top. Tip: Use a mix of mozzarella and parmesan for extra flavor.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, or until cheese is golden and bubbly. Tip: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving for easier slicing.

Zesty and rich, this Musaka offers a comforting blend of textures from the tender eggplant to the crispy cheese topping. Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Lutenitsa

Discover Lutenitsa, a vibrant Bulgarian spread that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Perfect for sandwiches, dips, or a hearty pasta sauce.

Ingredients

• Red bell peppers – 6 large
• Tomatoes – 4 large
• Garlic – 3 cloves
• Vegetable oil – ¼ cup
• Sugar – 1 tbsp
• Salt – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Place whole red bell peppers and tomatoes on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes until skins blister.
2. Remove from oven. Let cool for 10 minutes. Peel skins off peppers and tomatoes. Tip: The skins will come off easier if you cover them with a towel while cooling.
3. Chop peeled peppers and tomatoes finely. Mince garlic cloves.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped peppers, tomatoes, and minced garlic. Stir well.
5. Add sugar and salt. Simmer on low heat for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Tip: If the mixture gets too thick, add a little water.
6. Check consistency. It should be thick but spreadable. Tip: For a smoother texture, blend half the mixture before returning it to the pan.

Yields a rich, slightly sweet spread with a smoky undertone. Try it on toast with feta or as a base for a savory stew.

Gyuvetch

Rustic and hearty, Gyuvetch is a Balkan casserole that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Layers of meat and vegetables bake to perfection in a single pot.

Ingredients

– Beef – 1 lb
– Potatoes – 2 cups, diced
– Bell peppers – 1 cup, sliced
– Tomatoes – 1 cup, chopped
– Onion – 1, sliced
– Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
– Paprika – 1 tbsp
– Salt – 1 tsp
– Olive oil – 2 tbsp
– Water – 1 cup

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat.
3. Add beef, cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even browning.
4. Remove beef, set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
6. Add bell peppers, cook for another 2 minutes.
7. Stir in tomatoes, paprika, and salt, cook for 2 minutes.
8. Return beef to the skillet, add potatoes and water, stir to combine. Tip: Layer ingredients evenly for uniform cooking.
9. Cover and transfer to the oven, bake for 45 minutes. Tip: Check halfway through, add more water if needed.
10. Remove cover, bake for an additional 15 minutes until top is slightly crispy.
Luscious and flavorful, Gyuvetch offers a tender bite with a smoky paprika finish. Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation.

Patatnik

Savory and hearty, Patatnik is a Bulgarian potato dish that’s both simple and satisfying. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it combines grated potatoes with a few key ingredients for a crispy, golden result.

Ingredients

• Potatoes – 4 large
• Onion – 1 medium
• Salt – 1 tsp
• Vegetable oil – 2 tbsp

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Peel and grate the potatoes. Tip: Use a box grater for even shreds.
3. Finely chop the onion.
4. Mix potatoes, onion, and salt in a large bowl.
5. Heat oil in a 10-inch ovenproof skillet over medium heat.
6. Press the potato mixture into the skillet evenly. Tip: Use a spatula to compact it for a crispier bottom.
7. Cook on the stove for 5 minutes until the bottom starts to brown.
8. Transfer skillet to the oven. Bake for 25 minutes. Tip: Check at 20 minutes to prevent over-browning.
9. Remove from oven. Let sit for 5 minutes before slicing.

Flaky and golden, Patatnik offers a delightful contrast between its crispy edges and tender middle. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Bob Chorba

Make Bob Chorba, a hearty Bulgarian bean soup, perfect for a comforting meal. Its rich flavors and simple ingredients make it a must-try.

Ingredients

• White beans – 1 cup
• Onion – 1, diced
• Carrots – 2, sliced
• Tomato paste – 2 tbsp
• Vegetable oil – 2 tbsp
• Paprika – 1 tsp
• Salt – 1 tsp
• Water – 6 cups

Instructions

1. Soak white beans in water overnight. Drain before use.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add diced onion and sliced carrots. Sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in tomato paste and paprika. Cook for 2 minutes to blend flavors.
5. Add soaked beans and 6 cups of water to the pot.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 1.5 hours, or until beans are tender.
7. Season with salt. Stir well.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy the creamy texture and smoky flavor of Bob Chorba. Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tikvenik

Rustic and comforting, Tikvenik is a Bulgarian pumpkin pastry that’s perfect for fall. Its flaky layers and sweet filling make it a hit any time of day.

Ingredients

• Pumpkin puree – 2 cups
• Phyllo dough – 1 lb
• Sugar – 1 cup
• Butter – ½ cup, melted
• Cinnamon – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix pumpkin puree, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl until smooth.
3. Unroll phyllo dough on a clean surface. Keep covered with a damp towel to prevent drying.
4. Place one sheet of phyllo on a baking sheet. Brush lightly with melted butter.
5. Repeat layering and buttering until half the phyllo is used.
6. Spread pumpkin mixture evenly over the top layer.
7. Continue layering and buttering the remaining phyllo sheets.
8. Trim edges for a neat appearance. Tip: Use a pizza cutter for easy trimming.
9. Cut into squares before baking to make serving easier.
10. Bake for 45 minutes or until golden and crisp. Tip: Rotate the pan halfway for even browning.
11. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Tip: Dust with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.

The pastry should be crisp on the outside with a soft, sweet pumpkin center. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.

Sirene Po Shopski

Uncover the simplicity of Sirene Po Shopski, a Bulgarian baked cheese dish that’s effortlessly delicious. Perfect for a quick appetizer or a cozy meal.

Ingredients

• Sirene cheese – 1 lb
• Tomatoes – 2, medium
• Green peppers – 2
• Eggs – 2
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Slice tomatoes and green peppers into ¼ inch rounds.
3. Cut Sirene cheese into ½ inch thick slices.
4. Layer tomatoes, peppers, and cheese in a baking dish, alternating between them.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the layers.
6. Bake for 20 minutes until cheese starts to melt.
7. Crack eggs over the top of the dish.
8. Return to oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes until egg whites are set but yolks are still runny.
9. Tip: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
10. Tip: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the juices.
11. Tip: For a spicier version, add sliced chili peppers between the layers.

Hearty and comforting, Sirene Po Shopski boasts a creamy texture with a slight tang from the cheese. Enjoy it straight from the oven with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a vibrant touch.

Kebapche

Grilling up Kebapche brings a taste of the Balkans to your backyard with minimal fuss. This grilled sausage is all about simplicity and flavor.

Ingredients

• Ground beef – 1 lb
• Ground pork – 1 lb
• Salt – 1 tsp
• Black pepper – ½ tsp
• Baking soda – ¼ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat grill to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, ground pork, salt, black pepper, and baking soda until well combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions.
4. Roll each portion into a sausage shape, about 4 inches long and 1 inch thick.
5. Place kebapche on the grill. Cook for 4 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. Let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Fresh off the grill, Kebapche is juicy with a slight crisp outside. Serve with a side of ajvar or tucked into a warm pita for a handheld meal.

Lyutenitsa

Venture into the rich flavors of Lyutenitsa, a versatile Bulgarian spread perfect for any meal. This dish combines simplicity with depth, offering a taste that’s both familiar and exciting.

Ingredients

• Tomatoes – 2 lbs
• Red bell peppers – 2
• Vegetable oil – ¼ cup
• Sugar – 1 tbsp
• Salt – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Roast tomatoes and bell peppers on a baking sheet for 30 minutes until skins blister.
2. Remove from oven. Let cool for 10 minutes. Peel off skins and discard seeds.
3. Blend tomatoes and peppers in a food processor until smooth. Tip: A high-speed blender ensures a silky texture.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the puree, sugar, and salt.
5. Simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Tip: Keep the heat low to prevent burning.
6. Remove from heat. Let cool before serving. Tip: Lyutenitsa tastes better after resting, allowing flavors to meld.

This Lyutenitsa boasts a smooth texture with a sweet and tangy profile. Try it spread on toast or as a dip for fresh vegetables.

Kapama

Fancy a hearty, slow-cooked dish that brings warmth to any table? Kapama, a traditional stew, combines tender meat with aromatic spices for a deeply flavorful meal.

Ingredients

– Beef chuck – 2 lbs, cubed
– Olive oil – 2 tbsp
– Onion – 1 large, diced
– Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
– Tomato paste – 2 tbsp
– Cinnamon – 1 tsp
– Allspice – ½ tsp
– Salt – 1 tsp
– Water – 2 cups

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add beef cubes, searing until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pot to ensure proper browning.
3. Remove beef, set aside. In the same pot, add diced onion, sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in minced garlic, tomato paste, cinnamon, allspice, and salt, cooking until fragrant, 1 minute.
5. Return beef to the pot, add water, bring to a boil. Tip: Scrape the bottom to deglaze and incorporate flavors.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, simmer until beef is tender, about 2 hours. Tip: Check occasionally, adding more water if needed.
7. Uncover, simmer until sauce thickens, about 30 minutes.
Juicy and aromatic, Kapama’s tender beef and rich sauce pair perfectly with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a comforting meal.

Chushki Burek

Savor the simplicity of Chushki Burek, a flaky pastry stuffed with sweet peppers. This dish blends crisp textures with a mild, savory filling, perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

– Flour – 2 cups
– Water – ½ cup
– Salt – ½ tsp.
– Sweet peppers – 4, diced
– Olive oil – 2 tbsp.
– Egg – 1, beaten

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Mix flour, water, and salt in a bowl until a dough forms. Tip: Knead for 5 minutes for extra elasticity.
3. Roll dough into a thin sheet on a floured surface.
4. Sauté diced sweet peppers in olive oil over medium heat for 5 minutes until soft.
5. Spread pepper mixture evenly over the dough sheet. Tip: Leave a 1-inch border for easier rolling.
6. Roll the dough tightly into a log.
7. Cut the log into 8 equal pieces.
8. Place pieces on a baking sheet, brush tops with beaten egg. Tip: Egg wash ensures a golden finish.
9. Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.
Zesty and golden, Chushki Burek offers a satisfying crunch with every bite. Serve warm with a dollop of yogurt for a creamy contrast.

Gyuvech

Uncover the rich flavors of Gyuvech, a hearty Balkan stew perfect for any season. This dish combines tender meat and vegetables in a savory broth, baked to perfection.

Ingredients

• Beef chuck – 1 lb, cubed
• Bell peppers – 2, diced
• Tomatoes – 2, chopped
• Onion – 1, sliced
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Paprika – 1 tbsp
• Salt – 1 tsp
• Black pepper – ½ tsp
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Water – 1 cup

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof pot over medium heat.
3. Add beef cubes, browning on all sides for 5 minutes. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pot to ensure even browning.
4. Stir in onions and garlic, cooking until soft, about 3 minutes.
5. Add bell peppers and tomatoes, cooking for another 5 minutes.
6. Mix in paprika, salt, and black pepper.
7. Pour in water, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
8. Cover the pot and transfer to the oven. Bake for 1 hour. Tip: Check halfway to stir and add more water if needed.
9. Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Tip: The stew thickens upon standing.

Juicy beef and soft vegetables meld in this comforting stew. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Rhodopean Cheverme

Haven’t tried Rhodopean Cheverme yet? This slow-roasted lamb dish is a game-changer for your next gathering. Its simplicity and depth of flavor will impress.

Ingredients

– Lamb leg – 5 lbs
– Olive oil – ¼ cup
– Salt – 2 tbsp
– Black pepper – 1 tbsp
– Garlic cloves – 10, minced

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F.
2. Rub the lamb leg evenly with olive oil.
3. Combine salt, black pepper, and minced garlic in a bowl.
4. Massage the spice mixture all over the lamb.
5. Place the lamb on a roasting rack in a pan.
6. Roast for 5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F for medium.
7. Let the lamb rest for 20 minutes before carving.
8. Serve warm.
Tip 1: For extra flavor, insert small slits in the lamb and stuff with garlic before roasting.
Tip 2: Baste the lamb with its juices every hour to keep it moist.
Tip 3: Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
Cheverme comes out tender with a crispy, flavorful crust. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tavche Gravche

Just discovered a hearty, traditional Macedonian dish that’s simple yet packed with flavor. Tavche Gravche, a baked bean delight, is your next comfort food obsession.

Ingredients

• Dry white beans – 2 cups
• Onion – 1, chopped
• Vegetable oil – 2 tbsp
• Paprika – 1 tsp
• Salt – 1 tsp
• Water – 4 cups

Instructions

1. Soak dry white beans in water overnight. Drain before use.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large oven-proof pot over medium heat.
4. Add chopped onion to the pot. Sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in paprika and salt. Cook for 1 minute to release flavors.
6. Add drained beans and water to the pot. Bring to a boil.
7. Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 2 hours.
8. Check beans after 1 hour. Add more water if needed to keep beans submerged.
9. Remove from oven. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Expect creamy beans with a smoky paprika kick. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.

Conclusion

Great flavors await in these 18 authentic Bulgarian recipes, offering a taste of tradition and comfort. Whether you’re exploring new cuisines or craving homestyle cooking, there’s something here for every palate. We’d love to hear which dishes become your favorites—drop us a comment below! Don’t forget to share the love by pinning this article on Pinterest for fellow food enthusiasts to discover. Happy cooking!

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