What to Eat in Bosnia and Herzegovina: Tasty Treats from the Heart of the Balkans

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a Balkan country that captivates visitors not only with its history but also with its cuisine. Bosnian food, shaped by remnants of the Ottoman era, local ingredients, and the rich influences of the Balkan region, offers flavors that are both familiar and full of surprises. If you find yourself wandering the streets of Sarajevo or pausing for a photo on Mostar’s iconic stone bridge, make sure not to miss out on these delicious tastes.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a Balkan country that enchants visitors not only with its rich history but also with its delicious cuisine. Blending Ottoman influences, local ingredients, and the spirit of the Balkan region, Bosnian food offers flavors that are both familiar and delightfully surprising. If you find yourself strolling through the streets of Sarajevo or pausing for a photo on Mostar’s iconic stone bridge, these local dishes are a must-try.

1. Ćevapi – Bosnia’s Legendary Kebab

Ćevapi is perhaps the most famous dish in Bosnian cuisine. These small, finger-sized minced meat sausages are usually served inside a special type of bread called somun, accompanied by chopped onions, kajmak (a creamy dairy spread, similar to clotted cream or thick yogurt), and sometimes ajvar (a roasted pepper and eggplant spread). I tried them at a place called NUNE in Sarajevo and absolutely loved them. The meat was juicy and flavorful, and the kajmak on the side added a rich, creamy touch—highly recommended!

2. Burek

Forget everything you know about börek from Turkey. In Bosnia, burek strictly refers to the meat-filled version. The cheese-filled one is called sirnica, the potato version is krompiruša, and the one with spinach is zeljanica. These pastries are made with thin layers of dough, baked in large round pans, and sliced into servings. They’re often topped with a dollop of tangy yogurt, similar to strained yogurt back home—definitely worth trying with that extra touch.

3. Begova Čorba

A dish with roots in the Ottoman palace kitchen, Begova čorba (Bey’s Soup) is a hearty chicken soup made with okra and thickened with a rich roux or egg-based sauce. It’s perfect for warming up on cold winter days. You can find it in many traditional restaurants and places that serve home-style cooking. You might think of it as a chicken and vegetable soup—but with a Bosnian twist. It’s comforting and full of flavor.