Snug against the Black sea and peppered by the Balkan Mountains, Bulgaria exists as a testimony to the culinary wonders that arise out of such a diverse landscape. A series of rivers rush through the south-eastern lowlands, spreading fertility as they make their way into the sea. Adapted to the harsh winters, Bulgarian cuisine makes ample use of the country’s bountiful starchy vegetables and hearty meats. Despite the bitter chill of wintertime, spring offers a wondrous respite from the cold by warming the fruitful ground and paving the way for a bountiful fall harvest. This harvest yields robust vegetables that form the basis of Bulgarian cuisine.