Macedonian cuisine is rich, flavorful and deeply rooted in tradition. However, over the years, many misconceptions have emerged about what we eat and how we prepare our food. Let’s debunk some of the most common myths.
Myth #1: Macedonians Use Čubrika (Summer Savory) in Everything
Fact: Unlike Bulgarian and Serbian cuisine, Macedonian dishes rarely include čubrika. Our traditional spices are more focused on paprika, garlic, parsley and black pepper. The confusion likely comes from Balkan food overlaps, but čubrika is not a staple in Macedonian households.
Me personally, hates it :)
➡️ Read more about Macedonian spices here: Macedonian Spices
Myth #2: Ajvar is Made with Eggplant
Fact: Authentic Macedonian ajvar is made exclusively from red peppers! While some regions outside of Macedonia add eggplant, the traditional recipe calls for only roasted red peppers, oil, salt and sometimes a touch of vinegar. The secret to the best ajvar? Slow roasting and hours of stirring!
➡️ Try the authentic Ajvar recipe: Ajvar Recipe
Myth #3: Tavče Gravče Must Contain Meat
Fact: Tavče Gravče, Macedonia’s national dish, is a vegetarian bean stew! While some people like to serve it alongside sausages or ribs, the original recipe is completely meat-free, relying on simple yet powerful flavors of onion, paprika and bay leaves.
➡️ Learn how to make Tavče Gravče: Tavče Gravče Recipe
Myth #4: Rakija is Just a Drink
Fact: In Macedonia, rakija is more than just alcohol, it’s a tradition and a symbol of hospitality. It is served before meals, at celebrations and even during difficult times. Homemade rakija is especially valued and every family claims their version is the best!
➡️ Discover: Macedonian Rakija
Myth #5: Burek is the Same Everywhere
Fact: While burek exists across the Balkans, Macedonian burek has its own identity. Our version is usually round and baked in large trays, often cut into quarters. Unlike the spiral-shaped Bosnian burek or the Serbian one filled mainly with meat, Macedonian burek comes in various fillings, including cheese, spinach and even pizza-style versions!
➡️ Check out the best Burek recipe: Burek Recipe
Myth #6: Macedonian Cuisine is Spicy
Fact: While we love flavorful food, Macedonian cuisine is generally not spicy. We use a lot of sweet and smoked paprika and of course, chili peppers. The spiciest element in our cuisine is luta piperka (chili pepper) or chili flakes paprika, which can sometimes have a strong kick but is far from overwhelming.
Myth #7: Every Macedonian Dish Contains Meat
Fact: Macedonian cuisine has a rich variety of vegetarian and even vegan dishes. From Tavče Gravče to lean sarma, kompir mandja, shopska salad, pindjur and leek pies, many traditional meals rely on vegetables, beans and dairy rather than meat.
➡️ Check out delicious Lean Macedonian dishes: Vegetarian Recipes
Myth #8: Macedonian Desserts Are All Baklava
Fact: While baklava is popular, Macedonian sweets are diverse! We have tulumba, trilece, keks and unique walnut-based desserts that showcase our pastry-making traditions beyond just phyllo-based treats.
➡️ Try authentic Macedonian desserts: Macedonian Sweets
Myth #9: Macedonian Cheese is Feta
Fact: Macedonia produces a variety of cheeses, mostly white cheese in a brine. We also produce other varieties such as kashkaval, bieno sirenje and izvarka. These cheeses differ in texture, taste and preparation methods, each playing a special role in traditional dishes.
➡️ Learn about Macedonian cheese varieties: Macedonian Cheese
Myth #10: Macedonians Only Eat Home-Cooked Food
Fact: While home-cooked meals are cherished, Macedonia has a vibrant street food culture. From simit pogacha to grilled meats and kafana specialties, eating out is an important part of social life and food culture.
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