National Dish Croatia: Mlinci s Puricom (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Mlinci s Puricom, one of Croatia’s best-loved festive dishes! It brings together tender, juicy turkey and the soft-yet-crisp sheets of mlinci, a traditional flatbread pasta that soaks up every drop of flavour. The result is a wonderfully comforting plate that feels right at home on a Sunday table or at a celebratory feast. Bring a true taste of the Croatian countryside straight into your own kitchen.
About Mlinci s Puricom
Mlinci s Puricom is a traditional Croatian dish served above all at festive occasions. It pairs tender, juicy turkey with crisp mlinci, a special kind of flatbread pasta. These thin sheets are simple to prepare and absorb the flavours of the dish particularly well. Thanks to this combination, the meal becomes a feast for the senses, offering both a delicate taste and an appealing texture that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 1 kg turkey breast
- 200 g mlinci (flatbread pasta)
- 2 onions
- 2 carrots
- 2 garlic cloves
- 500 ml chicken stock
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh herbs (e.g. parsley)
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for the ingredients for Mlinci s Puricom, take care to choose fresh produce. The turkey breast should be as tender and juicy as possible to give you the very best flavour. Mlinci are available in Croatian grocery shops, or you can order them online. Since the remaining ingredients such as vegetables and stock are easy to find, you can pick up good-quality items at any supermarket.
Preparing the dish
Preparing Mlinci s Puricom is straightforward and quick. First, chop the onions and carrots into small pieces and finely mince the garlic. The turkey breast is seasoned and needs a little time to marinate so that it can take on the flavour of the spices. It is also a good idea to prepare the mlinci in advance, making sure they turn out nicely crisp when served alongside the turkey.
Step-by-step instructions
- Season the turkey breast with salt, pepper and fresh herbs, then leave it to marinate for a few minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan and sauté the diced onions, carrots and garlic.
- Add the turkey breast to the pan and brown it on both sides until golden.
- Pour in the chicken stock and let everything simmer over medium heat until the turkey is cooked through.
- Meanwhile, cook the mlinci in boiling water for a few minutes until soft, then drain.
- Toss the cooked mlinci with a little olive oil and some of the stock from the pan.
- Slice the turkey breast and arrange it on a plate together with the mlinci.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
If you would like to prepare a gluten-free or lactose-free version of Mlinci s Puricom, you can use alternative pasta made from a rice or maize base. Take care to choose a lactose-free or vegetable stock to preserve the flavour of the dish. These adjustments make sure you can enjoy the meal without compromising on important dietary needs. What is more, the authentic taste is largely retained.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Although Mlinci s Puricom is traditionally made with turkey, there are ways to create vegan or vegetarian alternatives. Instead of turkey breast, use marinated tofu cubes or a plant-based meat substitute. To round out the flavour, add plenty of fresh vegetables and spices. These tweaks make it possible to enjoy the delicious taste of Croatian cooking even without meat.
More tips and tricks
When you prepare Mlinci s Puricom, do not forget to keep a close eye on the mlinci so they do not overcook. A crisp texture is key to enjoying the dish. An extra pinch of fresh herbs just before serving not only lifts the look of the plate but also intensifies the flavour. Use good-quality olive oil during cooking to bring the authentic taste of Croatia into your home.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The recipe for Mlinci s Puricom is easy to adapt to personal preference. You can add different kinds of vegetables to vary the dish, or try out other herbs that you prefer. Boost the heat with chilli or paprika, while a squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a refreshing note. Experiment with the ingredients to create your own individual version of the dish that you will love.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have certain ingredients for Mlinci s Puricom to hand, there are plenty of alternatives you can use. Chicken stock, for example, can be swapped for vegetable stock to make the dish vegan-friendly. Instead of fresh herbs you can use dried ones, but adjust the quantity as they are more intense. This keeps your cooking flexible while the enjoyment stays just the same — much like the freedom you get with a hearty Sarma.
Drink pairing ideas
A range of drinks pairs beautifully with Mlinci s Puricom to round off the experience. A light Croatian white wine, such as Malvazija, harmonises perfectly with the flavours of the dish. Alternatively, you might serve sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing accompaniment. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, make a fruity iced tea, which complements the complex flavours of the meal wonderfully.
Serving and presentation ideas
The presentation of Mlinci s Puricom can greatly enhance the dining experience. Serve the dish in decorative bowls or on a large wooden board for a rustic look. Add fresh herbs as a garnish and arrange the mlinci and the turkey breast so they look appetising. A beautiful serving platter can make the table inviting and tempt everyone to dig into this delicious dish, in the same spirit as a celebratory Pasticada.
A bit of history
Mlinci s Puricom has its roots in traditional Croatian cuisine, shaped by the country’s many different regions. The dish is especially popular in rural areas, where people still celebrate this simple yet flavourful preparation today. Historically, it symbolises gatherings and festive occasions, when family and friends come together to enjoy good food. By preparing this dish, you can experience a piece of Croatian heritage at your own table, much like a slow-cooked Peka.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Mlinci s Puricom
Mlinci s Puricom is a delicious and traditional Croatian dish that captures the authentic flavour of the country. The combination of tender turkey and crisp mlinci is simply irresistible, making it an ideal choice for festive occasions. With a little creativity and the right ingredients, you can easily recreate this dish at home and tailor it to your own preferences. Enjoy the best of Croatian cuisine with this flavoursome recipe!
