In times when money was scarce, women had to get creative in the kitchen to prepare meals. With very few ingredients, they managed to make delicious dishes that many generations grew up on.
Even today, these so-called "poor man's" dishes hold a special place in people's hearts, with many claiming they felt healthier while eating them.
Cicvara
Boil water, add salt, lard, and slowly stir in cornmeal to avoid lumps. Mix in cream or cheese for a richer flavor.
Mashed Potatoes with Onions
Sauté chopped onions, add boiled and mashed potatoes, then season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
Bread, Lard, and Paprika
Though a nostalgic childhood memory for many older generations, this dish is unimaginable for today’s kids.
Boiled Potatoes in Their Skin
Simple yet satisfying. Serve with cheese and a tomato salad for a perfect summer lunch.
Kljukuša
Grate peeled potatoes, add salt, pepper, finely chopped onions, and flour. Mix with water until it reaches a thick pancake batter consistency. Pour into a greased baking dish and bake for about 30 minutes at 250°C.
Stale Bread in Sour Milk
When you're out of ideas for breakfast or dinner, crumble stale bread into cold sour milk or yogurt. Many kids still enjoy this meal.
Popara
Tear stale bread into pieces and soak in boiling water. Heat oil or lard, pour it over, stir, and add cheese or cream. Alternatively, use milk instead of water, and skip the oil for a lighter version.
Plain Bean Stew
Beans are filling and protein-packed, making meat unnecessary. Add carrots, peppers, and onions for extra flavor.
Fried Bread
Instead of processed meats full of additives, fry slices of bread for breakfast or dinner and pair them with yogurt.
Potato Soup
Sauté onions and carrots, add diced potatoes, cover with water, and cook. Stir in tomato juice and season. You can include other vegetables like peppers for variety.
These simple yet flavorful dishes, once born out of necessity, have become timeless classics appreciated even by modern food enthusiasts.