The South Slavic Culture Festival is under way. In addition to artistic experiences, the event organizers also provided culinary attractions. Two competitions were held: one for the best pita and one for a Balkan cauldron, that is, the best goulash soup. According to the judges, the tastiest pita was prepared by Genowefa Chmielowiec, the village head of Kierżno (Nowogrodziec municipality). “I mix the dough with butter and buttermilk and add one egg. Then the whole thing needs to be rolled out thoroughly,” says the first-prize winner (PLN 500). “As for the filling, that depends on what you like. Pita with cheese, rhubarb or raspberries is delicious.”
The second place (PLN 200) went to the women from the Rural Housewives’ Circle in Dobra (Bolesławiec municipality). The third prize (PLN 100) was awarded to Anna Janiec from Lipiany.
In the competition for the best goulash soup, the main prize went to the women from Kierżno. “The point is for it to be plentiful, good and tasty,” says Wioletta Puzio from the KGW in Kierżno. “I prepare all the ingredients at home first. Different types of meat go into the soup: bacon, pork neck and pork knuckle. But I will not reveal exactly how it is made,” she adds with a smile. The second place (PLN 200) went to Afred Pieniech, while the third prize (PLN 100) was won by Andrzej Miżdal.
The performers on stage included the Leśne Nastroje ensemble from Dobra, the Jutrzenka Municipal Song and Dance Ensemble (including “Bałkanica” by the band Piersi!), as well as Balkan bands: Sinowi Atara, KUD Dika Slatina and Svilen Konac. The star of Saturday evening will be the Lublin folk/world music band Čači Vorba, specializing in a vibrant blend of Romani, Balkan and Carpathian music.
(information: ii)