Topljenje (Sir i Čvarci)
Rendered Fat with Cheese and Pork Cracklings (Keto)
Yes, with a tweak: ensure this dish is served strictly without any cornmeal (kačamak), bread, or other starchy components that traditionally accompany it. About 3g net carbs per serving, lower than 7 in 10 Serbian dishes.
What it is
A rustic, incredibly rich, and traditionally hearty Serbian peasant dish. This keto version focuses on rendered lard or bacon fat melted with fresh or semi-hard cheese, then combined with crispy pork cracklings (čvarci). It's a pure fat and protein bomb, designed for sustained energy.
Key ingredients
Rendered lard (svinjska mast) or bacon fat, fresh or semi-hard white cheese (e.g., beli sir, kačkavalj), crispy pork cracklings (čvarci).
How to make it keto
Crucially, ensure this dish is served strictly without any cornmeal (kačamak), bread, or other starchy components that traditionally accompany it.
Say this to the waiter (Serbian)
Molim vas Topljenje bez kačamaka, hleba i bilo kakvih drugih priloga sa skrobom.
Please serve the Topljenje strictly without kačamak, bread, or any other starchy sides.
Watch out for
Traditionally, 'topljenje' is often served with cornmeal porridge (kačamak) or bread, which are high in carbohydrates.
Macros are estimates for a typical serving and vary by restaurant. Confirm ingredients with staff, especially if you have allergies. Our ingredient lists are generated automatically and describe how a dish is typically made.