The Story of Soparnik – Cooking Class

Enjoy the rich culinary heritage of Croatia with "The Story of Soparnik" cooking class. Set on a picturesque family farm, this hands-on experience guides participants through the traditional techniques of crafting the beloved regional dish. From chopping fresh ingredients to baking over an open fire, you’ll uncover the unique methods that have been passed down through generations. As you savor the flavors of this delicacy paired with a glass of local Plavac mali, prepare to discover the cultural significance that imbues every bite. Where will this journey through Croatia’s agricultural legacy lead you next?

Good To Know

• Soparnik is a traditional Croatian dish recognized as intangible cultural heritage with EU geographical origin label.
• The cooking class provides an immersive experience, including hands-on tasks like cutting chard, rolling dough, and baking Soparnik over an open fire.
• Participants learn about the rich culinary heritage and centuries-old traditions behind this cherished family recipe.
• The class features a welcoming atmosphere, with the host Nikolina and her family sharing insights into local food, farming, and cultural significance.
• Attendees savor the freshly baked Soparnik, accompanied by Plavac mali wine, and gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and flavors of this unique Croatian delicacy.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The activity is a 70-minute cooking class that explores the story of the traditional Croatian dish, Soparnik.

Priced at $92.22 per person, the class is offered in both English and Croatian.

Wheelchair users can participate, as the experience is wheelchair accessible.

It’s a private group activity, and guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Visitors also have the option to reserve now and pay later.

The class takes place in Omiš, with a welcome refreshment of aperitif and local dessert to start.

Experience Details

Guests begin their Soparnik cooking experience at the starting location of Gospe od Smova 50 in Omiš. Upon arrival, they’re welcomed with refreshing aperitifs and local desserts.

The host, Nikolina, then introduces the rich history and cultural significance of the traditional Soparnik dish. Participants dive into the hands-on cooking tasks, cutting chard, rolling dough, and twisting the ends.

The highlight of the class is baking the Soparnik over an open fire, followed by tasting it alongside a glass of Plavac mali wine. Throughout the 70-minute session, guests gain insight into the local food, family farm, and centuries-old traditions that make this experience truly immersive.

Cultural Significance

Soparnik is a traditional dish from the Poljica region, recognized as an intangible cultural heritage of Croatia with an EU geographical origin label. This thin pie, filled with Swiss chard and onion, is baked on an open fire covered with hot coals and seasoned with extra virgin olive oil and garlic.

The cultural significance of soparnik lies in its deep-rooted tradition:

1. It’s a cherished family recipe passed down through generations, reflective of the region’s agricultural heritage.

2. The baking process on an open fire is a unique technique, showcasing the resourcefulness of the local community.

3. Soparnik’s status as a protected cultural product underscores its importance in preserving Croatian culinary identity.

Customer Feedback

Enthusiastic feedback from participants speaks to the class’s immersive and enriching experience.

With an impressive 5/5 rating based on one review, the Soparnik cooking class earns high praise.

As one participant, Katie from the United States, highlights, the class creates a "welcoming atmosphere" led by host Nikolina and her family.

This suggests the class effectively immerses guests in the local culture and traditions surrounding the iconic Soparnik dish.

The review underscores the class’s ability to deliver an authentic and memorable culinary experience that resonates with travelers seeking to deeply engage with Croatian food and heritage.

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Logistics and Meeting Information

The guide awaits participants at the exact address, Gospe od Smova 50 in Omiš.

Transportation to the event location isn’t included, so attendees are responsible for their own travel arrangements.

The meeting point is easily accessible, with clear signage and a welcoming atmosphere.

Upon arrival, participants can expect:

1. A smooth check-in process with the guide.
2. Guidance on where to park or how to navigate the area.
3. A prompt start to the cooking class, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

The organizers are committed to providing a hassle-free logistics experience, allowing participants to fully enjoy the rich cultural traditions of Soparnik.

Preparing for the Class

With the logistics and meeting details squared away, participants can now focus on preparing for the hands-on Soparnik cooking class.

The recipe calls for a few key ingredients, including Swiss chard, onions, olive oil, and garlic. Participants should familiarize themselves with the process of cutting the chard, rolling out the dough, and twisting the ends before the class.

Plus, it’s recommended to wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes, as the cooking will involve some physical tasks. By coming prepared, guests can fully enjoy the experience and learn the traditional techniques of making this beloved Croatian delicacy.

Cooking the Soparnik

Upon arrival at the family-owned farm, participants are ushered into the outdoor kitchen area where the Soparnik-making process begins.

Nikolina, the local host, guides the group through the hands-on experience. Participants first:

1. Chop fresh Swiss chard leaves and onions, the primary ingredients in the traditional Soparnik filling.
2. Knead and roll out the dough, creating a thin, even layer to be topped with the filling.
3. Carefully twist and fold the dough around the edges, sealing in the chard and onion mixture.

The handcrafted Soparnik is then baked over an open fire, filling the air with the aroma of garlic and olive oil.

Savoring the Tradition

Participants now savor the fruits of their labor as they indulge in the freshly baked Soparnik. The aromatic pie, filled with local Swiss chard and onion, is seasoned with extra virgin olive oil and garlic, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

As they take their first bite, your are transported back in time, experiencing the rich culinary heritage of the Poljica region. Accompanied by a glass of Plavac mali, a renowned red wine from the Pelješac peninsula, the tasting becomes a sensory delight, allowing participants to fully appreciate the traditions and craftsmanship behind this beloved Croatian delicacy.

The guided discussion provides valuable insights into the cultural significance of Soparnik, leaving a lasting impression on the participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Ingredients for the Class?

The participants are generally expected to use the ingredients provided by the host. However, if you have any dietary restrictions or preferences, it’s best to inform the organizers in advance so they can accommodate your needs.

What Is the Minimum Number of Participants Required?

The minimum number of participants required is not specified. This private group experience can accommodate groups of any size, with flexible booking options and availability to be checked for desired dates and party size.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?

The cooking class accommodates dietary restrictions, with vegetarian and gluten-free options available. Participants with specific dietary needs should notify the host in advance to ensure their requirements are met.

Can I Take the Soparnik Home After the Class?

Attendees can enjoy the soparnik they’ve prepared during the class, but they likely won’t be able to take any leftovers home. The experience focuses on the hands-on cooking process and sharing the final dish together.

Is There an Option to Purchase Additional Soparnik to Take Home?

Yes, there is an option to purchase additional soparnik to take home. Participants can buy extra servings of the traditional dish they make during the class to enjoy later. This allows them to continue savoring the local flavors.

Sum Up

Participants will leave the "The Story of Soparnik" cooking class with a deeper appreciation for Croatia’s agricultural heritage and the unique culinary techniques used to prepare this traditional delicacy. By hands-on experience baking Soparnik over an open fire, guests will savor the rich flavors and cultural significance of this cherished regional dish, all while enjoying the picturesque setting of a family-owned farm.

You can check if your dates are available here: