January 21, 2019 — In this article of the Made in Croatia series, find more about Lička janjetina, the protected lamb meat from Lika.
Lička janjetina refers to fresh lamb meat from Lička pramenka, the native curly sheep breed raised exclusively in Lika-Senj and Zadar counties.
The specific flavors and aromatic profile of the cooked Lika lamb are directly linked to the botanical composition of the region's meadows and mountain pastures on which the lambs are raised. Consequently, in comparison to lamb meat from other areas, the meat of Lika lamb has a distinctive taste, and aroma. Also, because Lička pramenka sheep are reared in the open and get more physical activity, the color of Lika lamb meat is more intensely red and has a nice marbling to it.
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Although it has only been registered as a product of protected geographical indication in October 2018, the popularity of Lika lamb has been on the rise ever since 1998 when the Autumn in Lika festival was founded. This annual event takes place every mid-October and is a great opportunity not only to try the prized Lička janjetina and other traditional Lika delicacies, but the visitors can also enjoy the region's folklore performances, exhibitions, etc.
However, the main star of this gastronomic event remains Lička janjetina which is traditionally spit-roasted and prepared in a Lika-style sour stew.
If you'd like to know more about protected Croatian products, make sure you're following TCN's dedicated gourmet page.
