Truffles and the Sea: Autumn Catch Through the Kitchen of Stiven Vunić – Workshop at EGCI Pazin

Autumn on the coast brings two powerful ingredients of the same terroir: truffles from Istria's hinterland and fresh catch from the Adriatic. Their meeting is the theme of the workshop by chef Stiven Vunić, owner and chef of Konoba Zijavica in Mošćenička Draga, whose cuisine is deeply tied to the season, the micro-location and the daily catch. Raised in a fishing family, Vunić is known for his contemporary approach to fish and seafood, with very clear, precise and balanced flavours. In this hands-on workshop he will explore how to combine the aroma of truffle with the delicate and stronger flavours of the autumn catch without letting one ingredient overpower the other. Through several dishes participants will learn different techniques for preparing fish and seafood, building textures, sauces and sides, and how truffle can become part of a dish rather than just a finishing touch. Special emphasis is placed on seasonality and adapting the kitchen to what the sea actually offers that day, which is the foundation of the Zijavica philosophy. The workshop will show how the sea and truffle, two strong gastronomic hallmarks of our region, can work together on a contemporary plate, with respect for the ingredient, the season and its origin. For cooks who want to refresh their autumn fish offering, it is a chance to explore new combinations and better understand how a measured use of truffle can enrich a dish. The knowledge and ideas from the workshop can be a starting point for your own seasonal interpretations. About the lecturer: Stiven Vunić is chef and owner of Konoba Zijavica in Mošćenička Draga, a member of JRE and winner of the Gault&Millau "Grand Chef of Tomorrow 2022" trophy. A former regular participant of EGCI workshops, among the first generations, he now returns as a renowned, award-winning mentor. Zijavica holds a Michelin recommendation and high G&M ratings. As an ambassador of Kvarner, European Region of Gastronomy 2026, he is building a recognisable regional identity. The workshop is part of the Autumn Workshop Cycle 2026 of the Istrian Gastronomic Education Centre (EGCI). When: Wednesday, 25 November 2026, 9:00 AM Where: EGCI – Istrian Gastronomic Education Centre, Gortanov brijeg 1, Pazin Price: €360.00 (€180.00 for participants from Istria County) Places: 12 Registration: via the EGCI website (egci.azrri.hr)