Balkan cuisine Montenegro in 8 delicious dishes

Buzara

A trip to Montenegro reveals a country with its own unique identity. The architecture, art and way of life here are a fusion of Eastern, Western and Mediterranean influences—and so is the cuisine. The result is delicious dishes like mussels with buzara, a sauce made with a variety of vegetables and white wine. 

Montenegro, known as the Pearl of the Mediterranean, is a unique country in many ways. Bathed by the waters of the Adriatic Sea, this magical land in the Balkans contains countless surprises to captivate visitors. The list is inexhaustible, and includes natural landscapes, secluded beaches, leafy forests, crystalline lakes, rivers, canyons and magnificent mountains, perfect for exploring during a romantic getaway or a summer holiday. To help make your Montenegro holidays just magical, Iberostar Hotels & Resorts offers the best hotels in Montenegro at your fingertips.

Black risotto

Gazing out at the clear waters of the Bay of Kotor or breathing in the sea air at your hotel in Budva, you can complete the moment by pairing it with this regional staple: a velvety rice dish made with squid ink and usually accompanied by a typical coastal ingredient, like cuttlefish or octopus.

Njeguski

This cousin of prosciutto is the best appetizer to enjoy with a relaxed drink in Perast or Herceg Novi. It’s the country’s quintessential cured ham and can be served either cold or cooked. You can also try it in the form of a schnitzel, paired with local cheese.

The Iberostar Waves Herceg Novi hotel is at the entrance to the bay, surrounded by forested mountains and a crystal blue sea, to which you have direct access.

Cevapi

One of the country’s charms is how it manages to keep its traditions alive while bringing them up to date. If you’re after something really authentic, find your way to one of the many cevabdzinicas: food stands that serve this type of sausage. It’s a meat delicacy that can be found at any of Montenegro’s traditional restaurants, where chefs give the dish their own spin by serving it with different kinds of condiments and sides.

Kacamak

This gourmet dish is similar to polenta, with a base made of corn that’s dressed with cheese, yogurt or buttermilk. Combine it with a stew or serve it on a bed of potatoes and believe us: it will become the star appetizer of your vacation.

Gibanica

Many dishes, both sweet and savory, are based on this combination of filo pastry and cheese. In fact, it’s so versatile that every kitchen in the country has its own special recipe.

Ajvar

This condiment made of red peppers, eggplant and garlic is hugely popular and delicious. It’s usually spread on bread or used to give a touch of spice to a good cut of meat. 

Djuvec

Djuvec could be considered the ultimate Montenegrin dish. It’s a combination of vegetables, meat and rice that come together to make a kind of stew or casserole. It’s served in a large bowl, allowing all the flavors of the country to intermingle. Montenegro in one dish!