Arab-Style Ćevapi

Ingredients

While the original Bosnian Ćevapi is typically made with a combination of beef, lamb, and pork, our Arab-style adaptation replaces the pork with a mix of ground beef and lamb. Additionally, we have infused the meat mixture with aromatic Middle Eastern spices, giving it a unique and tantalizing flavor profile. The traditional Bosnian flatbread is substituted with warm pita bread, and we have added a refreshing yogurt-based sauce to complement the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Ćevapi, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 500g (1.1 lb) ground lamb 500g (1.1 lb) ground lamb
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Pita bread, for serving Pita bread, for serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat: 30g (15g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 5g (1g sugars)
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground lamb, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Shape the meat mixture into small, finger-shaped sausages, about 8-10cm (3-4 inches) long.
3. 3.
   Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the Ćevapi for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through.
4. 4.
   While the Ćevapi are cooking, warm the pita bread in a separate pan or on the grill for a few seconds on each side.
5. 5.
   Serve the Arab-style Ćevapi hot, wrapped in warm pita bread. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef and lamb — Use lean cuts of meat for a healthier option and ensure the meat is well mixed with the spices for maximum flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of sumac or za'atar to the meat mixture.
• Serve the Arab-style Ćevapi with a side of hummus or baba ganoush for a complete Middle Eastern meal.
• If you don't have a grill or grill pan, you can also cook the Ćevapi in a regular frying pan over medium heat.
• Customize the spice level by adding a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the meat mixture.
• Leftover Ćevapi can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, either reheated or cold.

Serving advice

Serve the Arab-style Ćevapi hot, wrapped in warm pita bread. Drizzle the yogurt sauce over the Ćevapi or serve it on the side for dipping. Accompany the dish with a fresh salad of diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and mint for a refreshing contrast.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Ćevapi neatly on a platter, garnished with fresh parsley. Place the warm pita bread alongside the sausages, and serve the yogurt sauce in a small bowl for dipping. Add a sprinkle of sumac or paprika over the yogurt sauce for an attractive touch.