Istarska supa: A traditional and unique local soup

(Photo: Festival of Istarska Supa Rovinjsko Selo)

Istarska supa, or Istrian soup, is a traditional culinary specialty from Croatia’s Istria region.

This supa combines heated red wine with sugar, pepper, and olive oil, served with toasted bread for dipping.

What sets it apart is its presentation in a bukaleta, a traditional baked clay pitcher.

Popular during colder months, the dish offers a warming experience, with the remaining wine often savoured at the end.

(Photo: Festival of Istarska Supa Rovinjsko Selo)

Recently, the 11th Festival of Istarska Supa took place in Rovinj, celebrating both the traditional recipe and creative variations.

Twelve teams competed across two categories: traditional and creative. The event also formed part of the wider Antonja 2025 festival, which included exhibitions of wines and olive oils from the region.

(Photo: Festival of Istarska Supa Rovinjsko Selo)

Judges, comprising culinary experts and local food enthusiasts, evaluated the soups based on authenticity and innovation. The winners in the traditional category were:

• 1st place: Team SSŠ Eugen Kumičić,

• 2nd place: Udruženja Obrtnika Rovinj,

• 3rd place: Učiteljice & Prijateljice.

In the creative category, the winners were:

• 1st place: Vrsarani from Vrsar,

• 2nd place: Team Recreativo,

• 3rd place: Trnoplesari from Pićan.

Additionally, visitors awarded the “Best Team” prize to Team Recreativo from Rovinj.

(Photo: Festival of Istarska Supa Rovinjsko Selo)

The festival also featured a vibrant musical programme, with performances by local groups, Duo Magnolia, and Anelide, creating a festive atmosphere as visitors enjoyed various interpretations of this iconic dish.

(Photo: Festival of Istarska Supa Rovinjsko Selo)

(Photo: Festival of Istarska Supa Rovinjsko Selo)

The event highlighted the dedication of all participants in preserving and innovating this Istrian tradition, with organisers and sponsors extending their gratitude to teams and visitors alike.