When exploring Croatia's supermarkets, discover local delights and international favorites.
From iconic Croatian brands to traditional specialties, there's something for every taste.
Explore the organic and health food aisles to glimpse the country's commitment to sustainability and wellness.
Key Takeaways
- Iconic Croatian brands like Cedevita, Franck, Gavrilović, Kraš, and Zvečevo offer a tasty legacy of popular local products
- Supermarkets have clear signage, self-checkout, and in-store food counters with freshly-cooked Croatian specialties like roasted chicken and pork dishes
- Local specialty products include Pag cheese, a protected Croatian delicacy, and Dalmatian prosciutto, a dry-cured ham with a rich flavor
- International food sections feature diverse global delights from renowned cuisines like Italian, Mexican, and Asian, albeit at higher prices
- Organic and health foods are available, including certified options, specialty items for dietary needs, and locally-produced honey, olive oil, and cheese
Popular Croatian Brands
Croatia's Iconic Brands: A Tasty Legacy
Cedevita: A Medicinal Beverage Made Good
This powdered beverage started out as a medicinal supplement back in 1969, but has since evolved into a popular bottled and bagged drink found on shelves across Croatia. Its diverse range of flavors and health benefits have made Cedevita a staple in households nationwide.
Franck: Crowned the 'Queen' of Croatian Coffee
Founded way back in 1892, Franck is a name that's practically synonymous with high-quality coffee in Croatia. Considered the 'queen among coffees' by local caffeine enthusiasts, Franck's blends have been delighting taste buds for well over a century.
Gavrilović: Keeping Tradition Alive with Smoked Meats
Established in 1690, Gavrilović is one of Croatia's oldest and most renowned meat companies. Their traditional smoked meats, including the famous 'Izvorno hrvatsko' (Truly Croatian) Zimska salama, have earned them a reputation for preserving time-honored techniques.
Kraš: Pioneering Chocolate in Southeast Europe
As the first large-scale chocolate manufacturer in Southeast Europe, Kraš has been producing beloved confections like the iconic Bajadera wafer since 1911. Their innovative spirit paved the way for the region's chocolate industry.
Zvečevo: Inventing the World's First Rice Chocolate
Zvečevo, founded in 1921, is credited with creating the globe's first rice chocolate – the beloved Mikado – in 1964. This pioneering spirit has made Zvečevo a household name for chocoholics across Croatia.
Supermarket Shopping Tips
Navigating Croatia's Supermarket Wonders
Croatia's iconic brands are a must-try, but the country's supermarkets offer a delightful array of other delicious options. Take advantage of the clear signage and organized layouts to breeze through the aisles efficiently. Don't forget to utilize the self-checkout options available at major chains like Konzum – a real time-saver!
Be sure to explore the in-store food preparation counters. These are goldmines for affordable, freshly-cooked Croatian specialties like roasted chicken and pork dishes. It's the perfect chance to sample everyday Croatian cuisine.
Local Specialty Products
When shopping at Croatian supermarkets, don't miss out on the local specialty products that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Two must-try items are Pag cheese, a hard sheep's milk cheese from the island of Pag, and Dalmatian prosciutto, a dry-cured ham from the Dalmatia region.
These delicacies are deeply rooted in Croatian culinary tradition and are beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Pag Cheese
The Captivating Pag Cheese: A Taste of Croatian Tradition
If you're a cheese enthusiast, you simply must try the exquisite Pag cheese. This protected traditional Croatian delicacy hails from the scenic island of Pag. Its rich history dates back to the 15th century, and it's crafted from the milk of sheep that graze on the island's sparse, aromatic pastures. This unique terroir lends the cheese a distinct flavor and texture that cheese lovers can't get enough of.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Texture | Hard, grainy |
| Taste | Sharp, salty |
| Aging | Several months to a year |
Pag cheese's protected designation of origin (PDO) status guarantees its authenticity and high quality. Aged for several months, sometimes up to a year, this cheese develops an intensely distinctive flavor profile that's highly sought after by cheese connoisseurs around the world.
The sharp, salty notes and hard, grainy texture make it a perfect accompaniment to crusty bread, robust red wines, or as a standalone indulgence.
Dalmatian Prosciutto
Savoring the Dalmatian Delicacy: Prosciutto Worth the Wait
Another Croatian treasure you'll find in supermarkets is the renowned Dalmatian prosciutto, known locally as pršut. This traditional dry-cured ham comes from pigs raised in the Dalmatian region, where the unique climate imparts a distinct flavor to the meat.
The curing and drying process takes at least 12 months, resulting in a rich, complex taste that sets it apart from other prosciuttos.
When shopping for Dalmatian pršut, keep an eye out for the EU's Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) label. This ensures the authenticity and quality of the product.
Savor it thinly sliced as an appetizer, paired with local cheeses, olives, and wines for a true taste of Dalmatia. The long, meticulous curing process gives this Croatian specialty a depth of flavor you won't find elsewhere.
The Dalmatian region's climate and traditional methods create a prosciutto unlike any other. The result is a rich, complex flavor that's worth the wait. Pair it with local delicacies for an authentic Croatian culinary experience that will leave a lasting impression.
International Food Sections
Diverse Global Delights
Croatia's major supermarkets have dedicated aisles brimming with international goods. Whether you crave familiar flavors or want to explore culinary adventures, these sections are your gateway.
Discover a tantalizing array of imported sauces, spices, snacks, and beverages from renowned cuisines like Italian, Mexican, and Asian.
While prices may be higher compared to local Croatian products, the international sections allow you to indulge in gourmet delights from around the world. Browse through an array of pastas, olive oils, jarred specialties, chocolates, and other tempting treats to elevate your meals or simply satisfy your cravings.
The selection may not be as extensive as supermarkets abroad, but these global offerings still let you broaden your palate and experience new flavors right here in Croatia. So next time you're looking to spice up your cooking or satisfy a nostalgic craving, be sure to explore the international aisles and let your taste buds embark on a culinary journey.
Organic and Health Foods
Organic and Health Foods in Croatian Supermarkets
Supermarkets across Croatia now offer an expanding selection of organic and health-focused products, catering to the rising consumer demand for wholesome and sustainable choices.
Fresh produce, dairy, and grains – Satisfy your cravings for nourishing, farm-fresh foods. Look for labels like Eko Mlin, Biovega, and Zdravo to find certified organic pantry essentials.
Specialty items for specific dietary needs – Whether you follow a gluten-free, vegan, or vegetarian lifestyle, you'll find an abundance of suitable options at supermarkets like Konzum.
Premium health food stores called Biobio – Explore these specialty destinations in major Croatian cities for an even greater selection of organic and health-conscious products.
Don't overlook the appeal of locally-produced honey, olive oil, and artisanal cheese. These beloved organic and health-focused items are readily available in supermarkets and specialty shops throughout the country.
With an ever-increasing emphasis on healthy and sustainable living, Croatia's supermarkets provide ample opportunities for health-conscious consumers to discover nourishing and environmentally-friendly choices.
Supporting the Local Economy
Supporting the Local Economy
When you shop at Croatian supermarkets and outdoor markets, you're doing more than just feeding yourself. You're directly supporting the local economy and community. By purchasing Croatian-made goods, you're keeping profits within the country, benefiting small businesses and traditional industries.
Choosing local fruits, veggies, dairy, meat, and artisanal products ensures the economic advantages stay in Croatia. This helps sustain domestic manufacturing and production. Seeking out specialty regional items like Slavonian kulen sausage or Istrian olive oil provides a boost to local producers in those areas.
Opting for Croatian brands over international ones is a simple way to help strengthen the country's economy. When you support Croatian retailers instead of large multinational chains, you guarantee the benefits remain within the community, preserving jobs and bolstering local businesses.
Your shopping decisions have a real impact. Every time you choose a Croatian product, you're contributing to the wellbeing of the nation's economy and its people. It's an easy way to make a difference and feel good about supporting your local community.
