Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 cup water
- Pita bread
- Yogurt sauce (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- Grill or grill pan
- Skewers
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground lamb, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, baking soda, and water. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight.
3. Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
4. Divide the meat mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each portion into a sausage shape.
5. Thread each sausage shape onto a skewer.
6. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and browned on all sides.
7. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
8. Cut the pita bread in half and stuff each half with one or two Ćevapi.
9. Serve with yogurt sauce, if desired.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour or overnight
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
5. Temperature:
Grill or grill pan over medium-high heat
Serving size:
Makes 6 servings (2 Ćevapi per serving)
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 450
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 32g
Sodium: 780mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground pork or chicken can be used instead of lamb
- Red pepper flakes can be used instead of paprika
- Plain yogurt can be used instead of yogurt sauce
Variations:
- Add chopped parsley or cilantro to the meat mixture for extra flavor
- Serve with sliced tomatoes, onions, and cucumber for a fresh touch
- Use naan bread instead of pita bread
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to refrigerate the meat mixture before grilling to allow the flavors to develop.
- Soak the skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Serve the Ćevapi with a side of ajvar (a roasted red pepper and eggplant spread) for a traditional Balkan touch.
Storage instructions:
Leftover Ćevapi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, wrap the Ćevapi in foil and place in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the skewers on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
Garnishes:
Fresh herbs, lemon wedges, sliced tomatoes, onions, and cucumber.
Pairings:
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
Suggested side dishes:
Roasted vegetables, Greek salad, or a simple tomato and cucumber salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the meat mixture is too dry, add a little more water to moisten it.
- If the Ćevapi are sticking to the grill, brush them with a little oil before grilling.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the meat to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Always wash your hands and utensils thoroughly before and after handling raw meat.
Food history:
Ćevapi is a traditional Balkan dish made of grilled minced meat, typically served with pita bread and yogurt sauce.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, smoky, and slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.
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Region: Bosnian