Ajdovi žganci

Ajdovi žganci is the national dish of Slovenia, consisting of buckwheat flour and water. The word žganci is derived from žgati, meaning to burn. Originally, the dish was a basic meal for most people, a breakfast used to provide the daily nutrients and energy to farmers for their hard work during the day. Žganci was consumed as a substitute for bread, while the leftovers used to be toasted with lard the following day, so that no food went to waste. Today, the dish can be found throughout the country, but it is prepared differently in each region of Slovenia. It is commonly served with sauerkraut and grilled sausages on the side. Ajdovi žganci are considered the ultimate comfort food on cold winter days.