Shopska salad

Shopska Salad is a traditional Bulgarian dish that is also popular in other parts of the Balkans. It is named after the Shopi, a regional ethnic group in Bulgaria.

Ingredients

The main ingredients of a Shopska Salad are tomatoes, cucumbers, onions/scallions, raw or roasted peppers, sirene (Bulgarian white brine cheese), and parsley. The vegetables are usually diced and salted, followed by a topping of grated or diced sirene cheese. The salad is often garnished with parsley.

Origin and History

The Shopska Salad was created in the 1950s as part of a state-run promotional campaign by the Bulgarian tourist board. The salad was intended to represent the colourful personality of the Shopi people, hence the name. Despite its relatively recent invention, the Shopska Salad quickly became a staple of Bulgarian cuisine and is now served in restaurants and homes across the country and beyond.

Variations

While the basic recipe for Shopska Salad remains the same, there are regional variations. In Serbia, for example, the salad may include boiled eggs or ham. In North Macedonia, the salad is often topped with hard-boiled eggs or olives.

Cultural Significance

The Shopska Salad is more than just a popular dish in Bulgaria. It is a symbol of national identity and pride. The combination of the white cheese, green cucumbers, and red tomatoes is said to represent the Bulgarian flag. Furthermore, the salad is often served as a starter at celebrations and gatherings, symbolising hospitality and friendship.

See Also

• Bulgarian cuisine
• Balkan cuisine
• Sirene