When material world speaks. Slovenian festive food and Slovenians in Serbia

Abstract

This paper draws on material collected during this author’s fieldwork research in Belgrade, Novi Sad and Ruma in 2008, 2012 and 2015. Obtained by various research methods, particularly the narrative interview, observation methods, and the questionnaire, the data provides an insight into the Slovene immigrant community in Serbia and the importance of Slovene food elements for members of this community and for the community as a whole. Although primarily an element of the material world, food also plays an important role within the context of a different cultural or social milieu. Some elements of food culture, particularly certain dishes, spices, and food preparation techniques, are especially important in the creation and preservation of ethnic identity of immigrant communities and of individual identities of their members. Among the Slovenes living in Serbia, this prominent position is occupied primarily by Slovene festive dishes, which are prepared for all major family celebrations and events. Food and especially festive dishes not only symbolizes the social ties and the division but actively participates in their creation and rebirth. Having become a symbol of ethnic affiliation of Slovenes living outside Slovenia, such food serves to materialize their ethnic identity. Key words: Slovene immigrant, Serbia, food culture, festive dishes, celebrations, ethnic identity