As the Muslim holy holiday Bajram (Bayram), or Eid, is fast approaching, we've gathered our favorite Bosnian dishes traditionally prepared for this celebration. Here you'll find many starters, entrées, pies, and desserts to feast your eyes, hearts, and tummies.
In Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bajram (Bayram or Eid), is celebrated twice a year. Here is what these holidays signify.
The first, Ramazanski Bajram (Eid al-Fitr/ Feast of the Fast) is a three-day feast at the end of the month-long, sunrise to sunset, Ramadan fast.
Muslims believe that during the first Ramadan that Allah (God) first started to reveal the holy book, Quran, to Muhamed through the archangel Gabriel.
Muslims in Bosnia and Herzegovina gather with their family on the first day, and friends on the remaining days.
The second, Kurban-Bajram (Eid al-Adha/ Feast of the Sacrifice), happens a couple of months later, and also lasts a couple of days.
In Islam, this day signifies the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) to Allah. To reward his willingness, God let Ibrahim sacrifice a lamb instead.
On this holiday today, different animals are sacrificed in different places. In Bosnia, a ram is sacrificed. Meat is distributed between family, friends, neighbors, and the poor. People gather with their families on the first day, and friends later.
If financially able, this is the time Muslims are expected to complete the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.
Generally, the same type of dishes are served for the first and second Bajram (Eid) in Bosnia, and below are some of our favorite menu choices and ideas.
Starters
Bey's Chicken Soup (Begova Čorba)
Think cream of chicken, except creamier, and with more chicken. Okra and lemon are added for that citrusy, exotic touch.
No Bosnian Bajram (Eid/Bayram) would be complete without a pan full of flaky, delicious baklava. Our simple way uses store phyllo for a faster result that doesn't skimp on taste.
