Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, peeled and grated
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. In a separate bowl, soak the bread crumbs in milk for a few minutes until they are soft.
3. Add the soaked bread crumbs and egg to the meat mixture. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
4. Divide the meat mixture into 6-8 portions and shape them into flat patties.
5. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
6. Grill the pljeskavica patties for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and nicely browned.
7. While the pljeskavica is cooking, prepare the cucumber and yogurt sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the plain yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
8. Serve the grilled pljeskavica hot with the cucumber and yogurt sauce on top.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Temperature:
- Grill or grill pan: medium-high heat
Serving size:
- 6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 300
- Total fat: 18g
- Saturated fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Total carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 24g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef and pork can be substituted with ground lamb or turkey.
- Bread crumbs can be substituted with crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs.
- Plain yogurt can be substituted with Greek yogurt or sour cream.
- Lemon juice can be substituted with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
Variations:
- Add chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, to the meat mixture for extra flavor.
- Top the pljeskavica with sliced tomatoes, onions, and lettuce for a more traditional Balkan-style sandwich.
- Serve the pljeskavica with a side of roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to mix the meat mixture well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Soaking the bread crumbs in milk helps to keep the pljeskavica moist and tender.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pljeskavica. It should reach 160°F for safe consumption.
Storage instructions:
- Leftover pljeskavica can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the pljeskavica, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pljeskavica on a bed of lettuce or arugula for a fresh and colorful presentation.
- Garnish the pljeskavica with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Pairings:
- Serve the pljeskavica with a glass of red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
- A side of crusty bread or pita bread is perfect for soaking up the cucumber and yogurt sauce.
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers
- Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Mediterranean-style salad with feta cheese, olives, and cherry tomatoes
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pljeskavica is too dry, try adding a little more milk or yogurt to the meat mixture.
- If the pljeskavica is falling apart on the grill, try chilling the patties in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before grilling to help them hold their shape.
Food safety advice:
- Always cook ground meat to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure that it is safe to eat.
- Wash your hands and all utensils thoroughly before and after handling raw meat.
Food history:
- Pljeskavica is a popular dish in the Balkans, particularly in Serbia, Bosnia, and Croatia. It is traditionally made with a mixture of ground beef and pork, and is often served as a sandwich with various toppings and sauces.
Flavor profiles:
- The pljeskavica is savory and juicy, with a slightly smoky flavor from the grill. The cucumber and yogurt sauce adds a cool and refreshing contrast to the meat.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the pljeskavica as a sandwich with a toasted bun or pita bread, or on a plate with a side of vegetables and potatoes.
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Region: Serbian