Chinese-style Ćevapi

Ingredients

While the original Bosnian Ćevapi is typically made with a mixture of ground beef, lamb, and spices, the Chinese-style adaptation incorporates traditional Chinese flavors and cooking techniques. The meat is marinated in a combination of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and Chinese five-spice powder, and then grilled to perfection. This fusion of flavors creates a delightful twist on the classic dish. We alse have the original recipe for Ćevapi, so you can check it out.

• 500g ground beef (1.1 lb) 500g ground beef (1.1 lb)
• 250g ground pork (0.55 lb) 250g ground pork (0.55 lb)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Bamboo skewers, soaked in water Bamboo skewers, soaked in water

Nutrition

• Calories: 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 25g (9g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 2g (1g sugars)
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, minced garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, Chinese five-spice powder, grated ginger, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Take a handful of the meat mixture and shape it into a long, thin sausage shape. Thread the meat onto a soaked bamboo skewer, pressing it firmly to ensure it stays in place. Repeat with the remaining meat mixture and skewers.
5. 5.
   Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. 6.
   Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef and pork — Use lean cuts of meat for a healthier option and ensure the meat is well-chilled before mixing to make it easier to handle.
• Chinese five-spice powder — If you don't have this spice blend, you can make your own by combining equal parts ground cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, star anise, and Szechuan peppercorns.

Tips & Tricks

• Soaking the bamboo skewers in water prevents them from burning on the grill.
• For extra flavor, brush the skewers with a mixture of honey and soy sauce during grilling.
• Serve the Chinese-style Ćevapi with a side of steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Chinese-style Ćevapi hot off the grill, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Provide a dipping sauce made from a combination of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a pinch of sugar for added flavor.

Presentation advice

Arrange the skewers on a platter, placing them diagonally for an appealing visual effect. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with a side of steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables.