Discover the Secrets of Traditional Bulgarian Cuisine

Join Chef Ivan Petrov for an Exclusive Online Culinary Experience

November 25, 2024 | 7:00 PM EET

Register Now
Assortment of fresh Bulgarian ingredients like peppers, tomatoes, herbs, and cheese.

An Authentic Taste of Bulgaria, From Your Kitchen

Balkanska Trapeza invites you to a special online event exploring the rich history and vibrant flavors of traditional Bulgarian cooking. Plovdiv, a city steeped in millennia of history, also boasts a culinary heritage as deep and varied as its ancient streets. This webinar aims to bring a piece of that heritage directly to your home.

Led by our esteemed Head Chef, Ivan Petrov, this exclusive session will guide you through crafting beloved Bulgarian dishes, sharing not just recipes, but the stories, traditions, and regional variations that make each bite significant. It's more than just a cooking class; it's a cultural immersion, a chance to connect with techniques passed down through generations in Bulgarian households and professional kitchens alike.

Whether you are an experienced cook looking to expand your repertoire or a complete beginner eager to explore a new and delicious cuisine, this webinar is designed for you. You'll gain practical skills, historical context, and a deeper appreciation for the art of Bulgarian food. Prepare to embark on a unique culinary journey that promises both learning and delight.

What Awaits You

Cooking utensils on a rustic wooden table.

Master Key Recipes

Engage in a hands-on, step-by-step live demonstration where Chef Ivan will guide you through the preparation of 2-3 iconic Bulgarian dishes. Learn the techniques, timing, and little secrets that ensure perfect results every time. Expect to cover classics that define Bulgarian home cooking.

Open vintage cookbook.

Culinary History

Journey through Bulgaria's rich gastronomic past. Discover the fascinating origins of the dishes, the influence of various cultures throughout history, and the cultural significance these meals hold in Bulgarian traditions, holidays, and daily life.

Selection of aromatic spices and herbs.

Ingredient Insights

Gain valuable knowledge about the essential ingredients that form the backbone of Bulgarian cuisine. Learn about key spices like chubritsa (savory), unique dairy products like sirene (white brine cheese), and seasonal produce typical of the Thracian Valley region around Plovdiv. Get tips on sourcing authentic ingredients.

Chef's hat icon.

Q&A with the Chef

This is your chance to interact directly with a master of Bulgarian cuisine. Ask Chef Ivan questions about techniques, ingredients, substitutions, and his personal culinary philosophy during a dedicated question and answer session at the end of the cooking demonstration.

Meet Your Culinary Guide

Professional headshot of Chef Ivan Petrov smiling.

Chef Ivan Petrov

Head Chef at Balkanska Trapeza

Chef Ivan Petrov is more than just a chef; he is a passionate guardian of Bulgarian culinary traditions. Born and raised near Plovdiv, he grew up surrounded by the aromas and flavours of authentic home cooking. With over 20 years of dedicated experience, he has honed his skills mastering classic recipes, understanding the nuances of regional variations, and innovating respectfully with the abundant local produce found in Bulgaria's fertile lands.

Before becoming the heart of Balkanska Trapeza's kitchen, Ivan travelled across Bulgaria, learning directly from grandmothers in villages and experienced cooks in renowned establishments, absorbing the wisdom passed down through generations. His approach is rooted in authenticity, using time-honoured techniques and insisting on the freshest, seasonal ingredients. He believes food is a powerful way to connect with culture and community.

Ivan is deeply dedicated to sharing the warmth, authenticity, and vibrant spirit of Bulgarian food with the world. He is not only skilled but also a gifted storyteller, eager to share the history and personal connections behind each dish. Join him for this webinar and experience his passion and expertise firsthand.

Event Schedule (EET)

  • 7:00 PM - 7:15 PM

    Welcome and Introduction to Bulgarian Cuisine: Chef Ivan kicks off the session, welcoming participants and providing a brief, engaging overview of the rich tapestry of Bulgarian culinary heritage, its key characteristics, and what makes it unique.

  • 7:15 PM - 8:00 PM

    Live Cooking Demonstration: Banitsa & Shopska Salata: Watch and follow along as Chef Ivan prepares two foundational Bulgarian delights: the iconic Banitsa (a layered pastry with cheese) and the refreshing Shopska Salata (a vibrant salad). Learn the techniques, tips for perfect layers, and the secret to a truly authentic taste.

  • 8:00 PM - 8:30 PM

    Deep Dive into Ingredients & Techniques: A dedicated segment exploring the star ingredients used in today's recipes and typical Bulgarian cooking. Chef Ivan will discuss sourcing, seasonality, and specific techniques like how to achieve crispy pastry layers or perfectly dice vegetables, answering common questions about preparation.

  • 8:30 PM - 9:00 PM

    Interactive Q&A with Chef Ivan: An open forum where participants can directly ask Chef Ivan their culinary questions. Whether it's about ingredient substitutions, variations of recipes, cooking tips, or insights into Bulgarian food culture, Chef Ivan is ready to share his expertise.

  • 9:00 PM

    Closing Remarks and Next Steps: Chef Ivan wraps up the event, offering final tips and encouragement. Information on accessing the recording and future events from Balkanska Trapeza will be shared.

Secure Your Spot Today!

Limited spots available for this exclusive online culinary journey. Register now to reserve your place and join Chef Ivan Petrov live!

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Hear From Happy Patrons & Attendees

Frequently Asked Questions

This event is designed as a live online webinar. This format allows you to interact in real-time with Chef Ivan Petrov, ask spontaneous questions during the Q&A session, and feel the energy of a live culinary demonstration. While it's live, a recording will be provided afterwards for all registered participants, allowing you to re-watch the techniques and tips at your convenience.
The webinar will be securely hosted on the Zoom platform. Zoom is widely accessible and user-friendly. You will need a stable internet connection and a device (computer, tablet, or smartphone) capable of running Zoom. Don't worry if you're new to Zoom; joining is typically just a click away from the link we provide. The link will be sent to the email address you use for registration well in advance of the event start time.
Absolutely not! This event is crafted to be enjoyable and informative for everyone, regardless of your current cooking skill level. Chef Ivan will explain each step clearly, making it easy for beginners to follow along and learn foundational techniques. Experienced cooks will also benefit from his insights into authentic methods, ingredient nuances, and the cultural context of the dishes. It's a learning opportunity for all.
To fully participate and cook along, you will need certain ingredients and basic kitchen equipment. A detailed list will be compiled and sent out to all registered participants approximately one week before the event date. This will give you ample time to gather everything required. The list will focus on standard kitchen tools and accessible ingredients, with tips on finding potentially less common Bulgarian items or suggesting alternatives where possible.
Yes, absolutely. We understand that schedules can be tight or you might want to revisit the material. A full recording of the live webinar session will be made available to all individuals who complete the registration. You will receive an email with instructions on how to access the recording within a few days after the live event concludes, allowing you to watch it whenever and as many times as you like.
Exterior view of the Balkanska Trapeza restaurant.

About Balkanska Trapeza

Nestled in the historic and vibrant city of Plovdiv, Balkanska Trapeza stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of authentic Bulgarian cuisine. More than just a restaurant, it is a culinary sanctuary dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and sharing the rich gastronomic traditions of Bulgaria. Our philosophy is simple yet profound: honor the past while delighting contemporary palates.

We source the finest, freshest local ingredients, prioritizing seasonal produce from the fertile lands surrounding Plovdiv and across Bulgaria. This commitment ensures that every dish served carries the true, unadulterated flavours of the region. Our menu is a curated journey through classic Bulgarian recipes, many of which have been passed down through generations, refined and perfected over time by our skilled culinary team led by Chef Ivan Petrov.

From hearty stews and succulent grilled meats to delicate pastries and vibrant salads, each plate is prepared with meticulous care, reflecting the warmth and generosity of Bulgarian hospitality. The ambiance of Balkanska Trapeza mirrors this dedication to tradition and comfort – a rustic elegance that invites diners to relax, connect, and savour every moment.

Our passion extends beyond our dining tables. We believe in sharing the beauty and depth of Bulgarian food culture with a wider audience. Hosting events like this online webinar is a natural extension of our mission, allowing us to reach food enthusiasts everywhere and introduce them to the authentic tastes and stories that define who we are. We are proud to be a part of Plovdiv's cultural landscape and look forward to sharing a piece of our heritage with you, whether you visit us in person or join us virtually.

Get In Touch

Phone: +359 32 654 321

Email: info@balkanskatrapeza.com

Address:
15 Ulitsa Ivan Vazov, Ground Floor,
Plovdiv, Plovdiv Province,
4002, Bulgaria

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