Maraska and Croatian Hazelnut in an Icecream

Can a scoop of ice cream tell the story of Croatian terroir? The Makarska company Premis believes it can. Their new investment worth more than 260 thousand euros is aimed precisely at developing ice cream made from authentic domestic ingredients – Marasca cherries from the Dalmatian hinterland and Croatian hazelnuts. It is a project that could bring Croatian flavors closer not only to domestic guests, but also to buyers in the demanding markets of Germany, Austria and France.

Marasca is no ordinary sour cherry. This indigenous Dalmatian variety is known for its intense aroma, pronounced freshness and characteristic balance of sweetness and pleasant acidity. It is precisely because of this profile that it has been an indispensable ingredient in top-quality liqueurs, sweets and desserts for decades, and now it could become the trademark of a new generation of Croatian artisanal ice cream. It is particularly interesting that Premis is negotiating cooperation with organic producers from the Šestanovac and Katun areas, areas that many consider one of the best locations for growing Marasca.

The second main ingredient is not a random choice either. Croatian hazelnuts, which come from Slavonia, Istria and northern Croatia, are known for their full, mild flavour and natural sweetness. Combined with quality milk, they create a creamy ice cream with a rich texture, and it is precisely on such local ingredients that Premis wants to build its recognisability. As the company points out, the goal is not to copy Italian or French flavours, but to offer something authentically Croatian.

"Italians talk about *sapore del mondo* – the taste of the world. We believe that Croatia has enough quality ingredients to create its own gastronomic identity through ice cream," says director Zoran Premeru. He adds that for years they have been trying to find suppliers of processed domestic maraschino cherries and hazelnuts, but due to limited quantities they decided to invest in fruit and nut processing technology themselves.

This investment is part of a wider strategy to enter European markets. After a successful appearance at the specialized Gelatissimo fair in Stuttgart, the company has made numerous business contacts and is now exporting to Germany and Austria, while preparing a stronger step forward on the French market. It is there that they want to offer ice creams that will not stand out with exotic additions, but with a story about Croatian origin and local ingredients. Premis is a family-run company that has been operating since the early 1990s, and from a small production it has grown into a serious manufacturer that today produces around 3,200 liters of ice cream per hour. At a time when more and more consumers are looking for products with a clear origin and authentic flavors, domestic Marasca and Croatian hazelnut could become one of the most interesting gastronomic duos on the Croatian ice cream scene. If the project is successful, tourists will be able to taste a part of Croatia's agricultural and culinary heritage along with a scoop of ice cream.

Photos: Premis i Pixabay