Traditional Croatian Recipes – Croatian cuisine is known for its delicious and hearty dishes that are a reflection of the country’s rich cultural heritage. From savory stews to sweet pastries, there is something for everyone to enjoy. One dish that is particularly popular during the Lenten season is Tašci (or Taške), a traditional pasta dish that is commonly served on Good Friday.

What is Tašci?

Tašci is a type of pasta that is similar in appearance to small, twisted dumplings. The pasta is made with simple ingredients such as flour, water, and eggs, and is typically served in a rich and flavorful sauce. The dish is commonly made during the Lenten season, as it is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for those observing the traditional fast.

Ingredients:

For the pasta:

2 cups of all-purpose flour
2 eggs
½ cup of water
Pinch of salt

For the sauce:

1 onion, diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 cups of tomato sauce
1 cup of vegetable or chicken broth
1 tablespoon of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

To make the pasta, combine the flour and salt in a mixing bowl. Add the eggs and water, and mix until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water. If it is too wet, add a little more flour.
Knead the dough for a few minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
While the dough is resting, prepare the sauce. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it is translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the tomato sauce and broth to the skillet, and stir to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, until it has thickened slightly.
While the sauce is simmering, roll out the pasta dough on a floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick. Cut the dough into small strips, about 1 inch wide and 2 inches long. Twist each strip to form a small, twisted dumpling shape.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, until it is tender but still firm to the bite.
Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Stir to coat the pasta with the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese.

Variations:

While Tašci is traditionally served with a tomato-based sauce, there are many variations of the dish that incorporate different ingredients and flavors. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Add cooked vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers to the tomato sauce for a heartier dish.
Substitute the tomato sauce with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a richer flavor.
Top the dish with cooked shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist.
Add fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, or thyme to the sauce for extra flavor.

Conclusion:

Tašci is a simple yet delicious pasta dish that is a staple of Croatian cuisine. It is a popular choice for Good Friday, as it is filling and satisfying without containing meat. While the dish is traditionally served with a tomato-based sauce, there are many variations that incorporate different flavors and ingredients.