European > Balkan

Fried Pljeskavica with Ajvar and Kajmak Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- Ajvar and Kajmak for serving

Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Frying pan
- Spatula

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cumin. Mix well.
2. Add the egg, breadcrumbs, and milk to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Add the patties to the pan and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through.
6. Serve the pljeskavica hot with ajvar and kajmak.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
5. Temperature:
Medium-high heat
Serving size:
8 patties

Nutritional information:
Calories: 380
Fat: 27g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 24g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground lamb or veal can be substituted for the ground pork or beef.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be substituted for regular breadcrumbs.
- Olive oil can be substituted for vegetable oil.

Variations:
- Add chopped parsley or cilantro to the meat mixture for added flavor.
- Top the pljeskavica with sliced tomatoes, onions, and lettuce for a fresh twist.
- Serve with a side of fries or roasted vegetables.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to mix the meat mixture well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Use a spatula to carefully flip the patties in the pan to prevent them from falling apart.
- Let the pljeskavica rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Storage instructions:
Leftover pljeskavica can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat the pljeskavica in the microwave or in a frying pan over medium heat until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the pljeskavica on a bed of lettuce or with a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful presentation.

Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for added flavor.

Pairings:
Pair with a cold beer or a glass of red wine.

Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side of fries or roasted vegetables.

Troubleshooting advice:
If the patties are falling apart in the pan, try adding more breadcrumbs to the meat mixture to help bind it together.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the pljeskavica to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.

Food history:
Pljeskavica is a popular dish in the Balkans, particularly in Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Croatia. It is typically made with a mixture of ground beef and pork and is often served with ajvar and kajmak.

Flavor profiles:
Pljeskavica has a savory and slightly spicy flavor from the combination of spices used in the meat mixture.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the pljeskavica hot with a dollop of ajvar and kajmak.

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Region: Serbian

Taste: Savory, Spicy, Tangy, Rich, Smoky