Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural history and a bustling culinary scene. With a population of over 1.2 million people, the city is located at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, and has been a strategic location for trade and commerce for centuries.
Serbian cuisine is heavily influenced by its neighboring countries, with Turkish, Austrian, and Hungarian influences apparent in many dishes. The cuisine is known for its hearty and savory flavors, with a focus on meat dishes and grilled meats in particular. One of the most popular dishes in Belgrade is cevapi, small grilled meat sausages that are typically served with a side of onions and bread. The sausages are made from minced beef or pork, seasoned with salt and pepper, and cooked over an open flame until crispy and browned. They are often served with a side of kajmak, a creamy dairy spread made from milk and cream.
Another popular dish in Belgrade is pljeskavica, a grilled meat patty that is similar to a hamburger. The patty is made from minced beef or pork, seasoned with garlic and paprika, and grilled until crispy and browned. It is typically served with a side of onions and ajvar, a red pepper spread that is made from roasted red peppers, eggplant, and garlic.
One of the most iconic dishes in Belgrade is the sarma, a stuffed cabbage roll that is typically filled with a mixture of minced meat, rice, and spices. The roll is then cooked in a tomato-based sauce until tender and flavorful. Other popular dishes in Belgrade include gibanica, a savory pastry made from layers of phyllo dough, cheese, and eggs, and karadjordjeva snicla, a breaded and fried meat dish that is typically stuffed with cheese and ham.
When it comes to drinks, Belgrade is known for its rakija, a traditional fruit brandy that is made from a variety of fruits, including plums, apricots, and apples. Rakija is typically served as a digestive after a meal, and is often enjoyed with a side of meze, a selection of small bites that are similar to tapas. Another popular drink in Belgrade is beer, with many local breweries offering a variety of craft beers that are brewed using traditional Serbian ingredients.
In terms of food culture, Belgrade is a city that enjoys a relaxed and leisurely pace of life. Meal times are often late in the day, with lunch typically served between 2 and 3 pm, and dinner not served until after 8 pm. Street food is a popular option in Belgrade, with many food stalls and kiosks offering quick and delicious snacks throughout the day. The city also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs staying open late into the night.