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Bulgarian cuisine makes use of a large variety of spices from all over the world. Below is a list of the Top 5 most used spices in Bulgaria. Note: Many regions in Bulgaria use their unique blend of spices so this list is just a guide and not a rule. Also salt and black pepper are excluded from the list because they are universally used.

Merodia (Sharena Sol) is a combination of several spices and is considered to be one of the most traditional Bulgarian spices. Merodia is made of at least 5 spices finely minced together: salt, paprika, savory, fenugreek and thyme. Other variations include corn flour, pumpkin seeds or red pepper.

Because of it's rich flavor this spice can be used on many different dishes. Some of the most popular are: potatoes, bruschetta, different kinds of breads, banitsa. It can also be used as a rub.

The origins of this mixture of spices date back to the middle ages. Many recipes exist on how to make merodia and they vary from region to region.

If you'd like to purchase Merodia for your next meal, check out the sites below:

Paprika. Originating in Central and North America, this spice has become a staple for Bulgarian cuisine. There are several types of paprika used in Bulgaria but the most common is the sweet version with mild and rich flavor. Other version include spicy with bright red color (known in the US as red pepper), hot (cayenne pepper) and mildest with sweet and pungent flavor.

In the traditional Bulgarian cuisine, paprika is used for flavoring potatoes, eggs, salads. Or as a rub for meats. It is also considered by some to exhibit healing or illness preventive properties.

Check the sites below to find Bulgarian paprika:

Basil originates from India but it has been introduced in Europe in the 14th century. Since then it has become a favorite spice for Mediterranean as well as Eastern European cuisine. Basil can be used fresh or dried. It is a suitable spice for dishes with tomatoes, cheeses, mushrooms or fish. It can also be used on salads and is an essential ingredient in vinaigrette dressing.

There are many varieties of basil. The most popular in italian dishes is sweet basil. Bulgarians also prefer sweet variety but on occasion thai and lemon basil are used too.

In addition to its culinary qualities, basil has been shown to exhibit some antiseptic and pain reducing qualities.

If you'd like to purchase this spice, check the links below:

Mint is an universal spice originating from Southern Europe. It is undoubtedly one of the favorite spices of Bulgarian households.

It has a strong specific aroma and sweet flavor. Fresh mint is preferred when storage permits. It has a wide variety of uses from drinks to salads and dishes. In Bulgaria is mostly used to spice beans, lentils, peas, potato salads, pork chops or spaghetti.

It's distinct aroma has proven to be a good addition to many drink cocktails throughout the world.

Look for Bulgarian basil in one of the sites listed below:

Savory is a cornerstone for any Bulgarian kitchen. It has sweet and delicate aroma. Savory can be used fresh or dry, however most Bulgarian dishes call for the fresh variety. One of the advantage of savory is that it can be used in hard to digest meals: baked meals, stews, ground meats, boiled fish or rabbit stew.

Another reason for savory's popularity is that it combines well with other spices. It is one of the five main ingredients in the traditional Bulgarian mixed spice - Merodia. it also compliments well parsley, fenugreek, bay leaf and garlic.

In addition to its culinary use, savory is also used for its medical properties. It is rich in essential oils, vitamin C and tannins.

Look for savory in the sites listed below: