33 Countries of Origin’ Profiles

10 Over time, many of Kosovo's neighbors influenced them including the Turks, Serbs, Greeks, and Italians among others. Even today many Turkish desserts are consumed as is pasta along with Greek herbs and olive oil. Perhaps the most lasting and noticeable influence the Turks had was that many people converted to Islam, which forbids the consumption of pork products. Another relatively recent addition to the menu is the potato, which is now commonly consumed in the country. Since that introduction, meat has also become more readily available and for less money, meaning meat has become more popular and has been incorporated into many traditional dishes. Staple Foods There are no true staple foods in Kosovo; various vegetables are found in most dishes though. The most important thing to note when dining in Kosovo is the ethnicity of your hosts. Generally speaking, the ethnic Serbs and the ethnic Albanians use similar table manners, but the conversation can be vastly different based on your host's ethnicity so be sure to note this before saying something offensive. On the dining front itself though, rules are similar to the rest of Europe: wait to be shown a seat, take your host's lead on when to begin, and eat in the continental style (knife in the right hand, fork in the left). Your local hosts may offer you an alcoholic Regional Variations & Specialties Flija: thinly layered pastries baked and generally served with cheese, yogurt, or honey Hajvar: preserved red peppers with oil and salt Pasterma: dried beef with pickled vegetables Dining Etiquette