Istrian cuisine is known for high quality ingredients and rich flavours, and this can also be applied to typical Istrian sweets. Make sure to try some of the delicacies in one of many tavernas/ konobas located across Istria.
Kroštula
Sweet pastry (kroštula) is a traditional pastry in Istria and Croatia. It is offered at various celebrations because not only does it taste good, but it also looks very unique. You will recognize it for its golden yellow colour and unusual shape with emphasis on this pastry’s crispiness.
Pazinski cukerančići
Traditional sweet pastry (cukerančići) is a delicacy especially known in the area around Pazin and in central Istria. The local women used to prepare it as a wedding pastry and today, it’s prepared for baptism, communion and confirmation, as well as for Easter and Christmas celebrations.In order to protect its name and preparation, it was recently declared for the intangible cultural heritage of Croatia.
Sweet “bumbar” cake
It’s a very delicious cake prepared with only 3 ingredients: eggs, sugar and almond. As it is traditionally prepared in Vodnjan, the inhabitants of Vodnjan who speak Istroroman (istriot) dialect have been given the nickname „bumbari“ and that is why the cake carries the same name.
Povetica
It’s a pastry made of risen dough which is traditionally prepared for Christmas and Easter. The main difference between walnut roll (orehnjača) and „povetica“ is that apples are often put in „povetica“ which makes it juicier. In some parts of Istria apples or walnuts are put as stuffing in „povetica“ while others put cheese or curd.
Fritula
Sweet pastry (fritula) is an unavoidable part of Istrian gastronomy which can be found on the table at the celebrations and events. Made with plain dough or enriched with raisins, a bit of brandy, grated apples and candied fruit. It can be covered with chocolate, sugar or cinnamon.
Visit www.istra.hr to learn more about Istrian cuisine and things to do and see while vacationing in Istria.
Photo credit: Chasing the donkey, 24 kitchen, 24sata, Mamika, Lanterna magazin, Antena Zadar
