Croatian Chicken Soup for the Soul

Born in Split, Croatia, Eirena (Ell) is sharing her beloved family recipe for traditional Croatian chicken soup, lovingly passed down from her mama, Zora. More than just a comforting meal, this nourishing soup reflects the heart of Croatian family culture - where food is deeply tied to hospitality, togetherness, and care. Across Croatia, chicken soup (pileća juha) is a staple of Sunday lunches, celebrations, and times when loved ones need comfort or healing.

Influenced by the rich culinary traditions of Dalmatia and Split, Croatian cooking blends Mediterranean warmth with generations of home-style recipes built around simple, wholesome ingredients and slow cooking. In this hands-on class, Ell invites you into her family kitchen – Castlemaine Community House Kitchen in this instance - to learn the traditional techniques, flavours, and stories behind this soulful dish — a bowl of comfort made with love, heritage, and connection.

Please bring:

• Your curiosity

• An apron

• Notepad to jot down the recipe

Date: Wednesday 24th June

Time: 5.30pm - 7.30pm

Where: Castlemaine Community House, 30 Templeton St.

Cost: $5 suggested donation

Facilitator: Eirena (Ell)

Places are limited and registration is required.

Castlemaine Community House is a partner in the Feast of Cultures program with Mount Alexander Shire Council, Healthy Loddon Campaspe, Dhelkaya Health and Regional Partnerships Loddon Campaspe.