Cevapcici
This is the Recipe for Cevapcici
Cevapcici, also spelled as cevapi or ćevapi, is a traditional Balkan dish made from grilled minced meat, usually served with flatbread, onions, and condiments. The dish is popular in countries such as Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, and others. Here’s a basic recipe for making cevapcici at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (you can also use a mixture of beef and lamb or pork for added flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Water (if needed to adjust consistency)
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground paprika, black pepper, salt, and baking soda. Mix everything thoroughly using your hands or a spoon until the ingredients are well incorporated. You can also add a tablespoon of vegetable oil to keep the cevapcici moist during cooking.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Preheat your grill, barbecue, or a griddle pan on medium-high heat. If using a griddle pan, lightly oil it to prevent sticking.
- While the grill or pan is heating, shape the meat mixture into small cylindrical sausages, about 2-3 inches long and 1/2 inch in diameter. Wetting your hands with a little water can help prevent sticking while shaping the cevapcici.
- Once the grill or pan is hot, place the cevapcici on it and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until they are evenly browned and cooked through.
- While the cevapcici are cooking, you can warm up some flatbread or pita on the grill or in the oven.
- Serve the cevapcici with the warmed flatbread, finely chopped onions, and a side of ajvar (a roasted red pepper and eggplant spread) or kajmak (a dairy spread similar to clotted cream). You can also serve them with sour cream, yogurt, or a side salad, depending on your preference.
Enjoy your homemade cevapcici! This dish is perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or
