Whether you grew up with the smell of sarma simmering on the stove, or you’ve just discovered the magic of fritule at a Croatian festival, Croatian food isn’t just delicious—it’s personal. Every dish has a story, a region, a baka behind it. But have you ever stopped to wonder what your favourite Croatian dish might say about you?
Let’s stir the pot (pun intended) and decode your personality—one plate at a time.
Sarma – The Loyal Traditionalist
If sarma is your favourite, you’re probably the reliable one in your family. You’re loyal, dependable, and not afraid to commit—whether it’s to a partner, a Netflix series, or a second helping. You believe food should be hearty, made in large pots, and reheated three days in a row. You probably also insist, correctly, that it tastes better on the second day.
Bonus points if you defend sarma as an all-year-round dish (you’re right, by the way).
Peka (Octopus or Lamb) – The Patient Food -Philosopher
Ah, you like peka? You’re someone who understands that good things take time. You’re calm under pressure, know how to plan ahead, and you don’t settle for fast food. You might also be the “host with the most” type—always cooking for others, lighting candles, and using phrases like “just let it slow cook…” even in life.
You also secretly judge people who don’t appreciate crispy potatoes.
Fritule – The Sweet, Fun-Loving Free Spirit
If fritule are your go-to, you’re the life of the party, with powdered sugar on your shirt and rakija in your cup. You’re festive, spontaneous, and always down for dessert before dinner. You live for Christmas markets, summer festivals, and will defend your aunt’s fritule recipe with the same passion others reserve for politics.
Your Instagram feed probably includes #fritule4life and a picture of you holding them in front of the sea.
Pašticada – The Romantic Soul
Choosing pašticada as your favourite means you’re deep, nostalgic, and love a bit of drama—especially the slow-cooked, red wine kind. You likely romanticise everything: old love letters, handwritten recipes, and rainy Sundays. You understand that complex flavours (and people) are worth the wait.
You also probably believe gnocchi is superior to all other carbs. Again, correct.
Zagorski Štrukli – The Cozy Homebody
If you’re obsessed with štrukli, you’re the type who brings a blanket to a picnic “just in case.” You like books, home-cooked meals, and your tea with honey. You’re nurturing, creative, and probably have strong opinions about what real cheese filling should taste like. You’re also the first to comfort a friend—with food, of course.
Crni Rižot (Black Risotto) – The Sophisticated Adventurer
You’re bold, a bit mysterious, and always chasing your next adventure. If black risotto is your favourite, you’re not afraid to get your hands (and teeth) dirty in the name of flavour. You appreciate the sea, the strange, and the dramatic—and your dinner choices often double as conversation starters.
You’ve probably posted, “Don’t be afraid of squid ink—it’s life-changing.”
Kulen – The Fiery Individualist
If kulen is your jam, you’re bold, outspoken, and love a bit of spice—both in food and in life. You like your flavours strong, your opinions stronger, and your friendships loyal. You’re the one bringing homemade rakija in a water bottle “for digestion,” and calling out anyone who says kulen is just a sausage.
Spoiler: It’s not. It’s an identity.
Soparnik – The Wise Minimalist
Soparnik fans are deep thinkers with a respect for tradition and simplicity. You believe in clean ingredients, old-school techniques, and the wisdom of fasting—not just for religious reasons, but for balance. You’re probably low-key the healthiest person at the table, and you have an appreciation for cultural heritage that runs deep.
You may also be the only one at the table who knows it’s protected by UNESCO. (Respect.)
Kotlovina – The Social Butterfly
You thrive at outdoor gatherings, music festivals, and backyard BBQs. Kotlovina lovers are fun, easy going, and believe food is better when cooked outdoors and shared with others. You’re the friend who brings people together, always has an extra plate ready, and is usually dancing before dessert.
You might also be in charge of the playlist—and the rakija.
Croatia on a Plate
Croatian cuisine is diverse, regional, and rooted in centuries of history—but it’s also deeply personal. What we eat tells stories: of childhood, family, migration, celebration, and love. So whether you’re team sarma, štrukli, or squid ink risotto, know that you’re carrying a slice of culture with every bite.
And remember: whatever dish you choose, it’s not just food—it’s a little piece of home.
Related article:
Croatian dishes that deserve global fame https://vjesnik.com.au/2025/07/croatian-dishes-that-deserve-global-fame/
