At the beginning of the last century at Vinodol municipality, the region “one step away from sea, two steps away from snow” grew over 25.000 fig trees and 250 tons of figs were produced per year. Today barely 4.500 trees remained, and among those most of them are domesticated sorts such as: bilica, črni and beli vuk, hrastača, manjukva, poganka, vlahinja and zelenica.
Every island in the Adriatic sea seems to have its own fig cake. On the Island of Vis it is prepared from figs, Lozovača (grape rakia) and fennel. It is shaped into patties and stored on laurel leaves.
The most recognizable jewelry, moretto-shaped earrings are characteristic of Rijeka and Kvarner region. The influence of history and other cultures in these parts left their mark, evident in this jewelry of specific shape and legend. The beginning of wearing of moretto jewelry is connected to common women of Rijeka.
In this soup young cucumbers and potatoes are rounded by fine sour cream, and aroma of the fresh dill. Light and refreshing. Suits well also slightly chilled.
Earlier, when there were no refrigerators, people would have to manage in preserving perishables, such as fish. Marinating fried sardines in a mixture of oil, vinegar, onion, bay leaves and rosemary is one of the ways. Fish prepared like this can stand in cool place up to two weeks, and the longer it stands, the specific taste is getting better ;).
Very simple little meal or a side dish in Zagreb cuisine. Freshly cooked string beans dressed (Ger. abschmalzen – to fry, to season, to fatten) in an envelope of butter and breadcrumbs, with the aroma of freshly chopped garlic.
Turoš is specialty from Međimurje made of fresh cottage cheese, salt and paprika. Dried in the sun or next to a warm stove, shaped like a cone it was served with spring onions and home-made corn bread.
On the Island of Krk it is prepared from figs, Lozovača (grape rakia) and chopped walnuts. It is shaped into a roll and dried for about 20 days.
In the spring it is time for Dalmatian lamb with fresh peas. Add some boiled potatoes and you get a full meal.
Strawberry season is an excellent opportunity to prepare jam. Adding only sugar, with light cooking you get a delicious treat that you can combine with bread, pancakes or use in the preparation of cakes.
