Croatian-style Ćevapi

Ingredients

While the concept of Ćevapi remains the same in Croatian cuisine, there are slight differences in the seasoning and serving style. Croatian-style Ćevapi often include a mix of ground beef and pork, giving them a richer flavor. Additionally, they are typically served with ajvar, a roasted red pepper and eggplant spread, and a side of fresh, crunchy salad. 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
• 250g (0.55 lb) ground pork 250g (0.55 lb) ground pork
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 cup sparkling water 1/4 cup sparkling water
• Ajvar, for serving Ajvar, for serving
• Fresh salad, for serving Fresh salad, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 400 kcal / 1674 KJ
• Fat: 30g (total), 10g (saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 2g (total), 1g (sugars)
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, baking soda, and sparkling water. 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 your grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Take a handful of the meat mixture and shape it into a small sausage, about 8-10cm (3-4 inches) long and 2cm (0.8 inches) in diameter. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
5. 5.
   Place the Ćevapi on the preheated grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through.
6. 6.
   Remove the Ćevapi from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
7. 7.
   Serve the Croatian-style Ćevapi hot, accompanied by ajvar and a fresh salad.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef and pork — Use lean cuts of meat for a healthier option.
• Ajvar — You can make your own ajvar by roasting red peppers and eggplants, then blending them with garlic, olive oil, and vinegar.
• Fresh salad — Opt for a mix of lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions for a refreshing side.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the meat mixture.
• Serve the Ćevapi with warm, freshly baked bread for a complete meal.
• If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the Ćevapi on a stovetop grill pan or in the oven under the broiler.
• Make sure to handle the meat mixture gently when shaping the sausages to keep them tender.
• Leftover Ćevapi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Croatian-style Ćevapi hot off the grill, accompanied by a generous dollop of ajvar and a side of fresh salad. You can also serve them with warm bread or pita for a satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled Ćevapi on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a pop of color. Place a bowl of ajvar in the center and surround it with the vibrant salad. This colorful presentation will make your Croatian-style Ćevapi even more appetizing.