A Taste of Slovenia – The Story & a Recipe to Try

Apr 29, 2025

slovenia-dumplings

Slovenia may be a small country, but its culinary spirit is mighty—and one woman in particular has helped put it on the world map. Meet Ana Roš, the fiercely talented and entirely self-taught chef behind the internationally acclaimed restaurant Hiša Franko in Kobarid. Tucked away in the serene Soča Valley, Ana’s kitchen is where Slovenia’s natural bounty meets culinary artistry.

Ana’s journey to global recognition is as unconventional as her cuisine. A former ski champion and diplomat-in-training, she turned down a prestigious diplomatic career to stay in her home country and help run her partner’s family inn. From that humble beginning, she immersed herself in Slovenian ingredients and traditions, transforming local produce into imaginative, beautifully plated dishes that honour the land.

In 2017, she was named the World’s Best Female Chef, and Hiša Franko now boasts three Michelin stars. But what truly sets Ana apart is her commitment to sustainability, her connection with local farmers and foragers, and her love for Slovenia’s deeply rooted culinary heritage. Her story is not just one of success, but of passion, place, and the power of following your own path.

To bring a little taste of Slovenia into your own kitchen, we invite you to try a classic dish often served in homes and rustic inns across the country:

 

 

Štruklji (Slovenian Rolled Dumplings)

Ingredients:

  • 250g cottage cheese
  • 1 egg
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Handful of chopped chives or parsley
  • 200g flour
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • Pinch of salt
  • Brown butter to serve

Instructions:

  1. Mix the flour, a pinch of salt, oil, and enough water to form a soft dough. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
  2. Roll the dough out into a thin rectangle.
  3. For the filling, combine the cottage cheese, egg, lemon zest, and herbs.
  4. Spread the filling over the dough, roll it up gently, and wrap in a clean cloth or baking paper.
  5. Steam or boil for about 30–40 minutes.
  6. Slice and serve with melted brown butter and fresh herbs.

This comforting dish is the kind of soul food Ana might elevate with a foraged twist—but it’s just as lovely in its simplest form. Whether enjoyed in a mountain village or at home with friends, Štruklji captures the warmth and generosity of Slovenian cooking.

Inspired to taste more? Join us on our women-only small group tour to Slovenia this October, where we explore not only the sights, but also the flavours of this magical country. You’ll even dine at a Michelin-starred bistro in Radovljica!

Explore the full itinerary here

 

Photo from Jemej Kitchen