Being both Croatian and Peruvian has had a significant impact on my life, shaping everything from my tastes in food to the way I see the world. Each culture brings its unique flavours, traditions, and perspectives, and I find myself influenced by both in different ways.
When it comes to food, I have distinct favourites from each culture. From Perú, I love dishes like Cau Cau, Tacu Tacu, and the famous Pollo a la Brasa. These dishes are deeply rooted in Peruvian tradition and carry the vibrant flavours that remind me of my Peruvian heritage. Cau Cau is a dish that traditionally includes cow stomach lining, cooked with a rich combination of potatoes and spices. Tacu Tacu is a delicious blend of rice and beans, often served with a fried egg or steak on top, and Pollo a la Brasa is Perú’s well-known roasted chicken, seasoned to perfection and cooked over charcoal.
From Croatia, my favourites include Ćevapi, Sarma, and Zagrebački Odrezak. Ćevapi are grilled minced meat sausages, usually served with onions, bread, and sometimes a side of ajvar. Sarma is a comforting dish of cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice, simmered slowly in a savoury broth. Zagrebački Odrezak is similar to a schnitzel—pork or veal cutlets stuffed with cheese and ham, then breaded and fried to golden perfection. These dishes remind me of my Croatian roots and are always a part of family gatherings.
When it comes to desserts, I enjoy a range of sweets from both countries. In Perú, some of my favourite treats include Lúcuma Ice Cream, which is made from the tropical fruit lúcuma and has a unique, caramel-like flavour. I also enjoy Turrón de Doña Pepa, a traditional nougat dessert, as well as Crema Volteada, Perú’s version of flan, and Mazamorra Morada, a warm purple corn pudding with a spiced, fruity taste.
From Croatia, I indulge in desserts like Rožata, a creamy caramel custard similar to flan, but with a Dalmatian twist. I also love Palačinke, which are thin pancakes that can be filled with sweet or savoury fillings. Štrudl, the Croatian version of strudel, often filled with apples, is a must during holidays. And of course, Samoborska Kremšnita, a vanilla custard and cream cake, is a famous Croatian dessert that I enjoy whenever I get the chance.
My tastes in drinks are also influenced by both cultures. In Perú, I enjoy Chicha Morada, a refreshing drink made from purple corn, as well as Guaraná, and of course, the iconic Inca Kola and Arequipeña beer. From Croatia, I enjoy Pipi, a local soft drink, as well as Coffee, Rakija, Šljivovica, and Karlovačko beer.
Both cultures have contributed to my identity, and I enjoy carrying pieces of both with me, from the dishes I savour to the values and traditions I uphold. It is a unique blend of two distinct yet enriching worlds.
