Mediterranean-style Ćevapi

Ingredients

While the original Bosnian Ćevapi is typically made with a combination of beef, lamb, and veal, our Mediterranean-style adaptation focuses on leaner meats such as chicken and turkey. We also infuse the dish with Mediterranean herbs and spices, giving it a unique and refreshing flavor profile. Additionally, we serve the Ćevapi with a side of fresh Mediterranean salad and tzatziki sauce, enhancing the overall Mediterranean experience. We alse have the original recipe for Ćevapi, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground chicken 500g (1.1 lb) ground chicken
• 500g (1.1 lb) ground turkey 500g (1.1 lb) ground turkey
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil, for grilling Olive oil, for grilling
• Pita bread, for serving Pita bread, for serving
• Fresh Mediterranean salad, for serving Fresh Mediterranean salad, for serving
• Tzatziki sauce, for serving Tzatziki sauce, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 15g (5g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 5g (1g sugars)
• Protein: 45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ground turkey, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Shape the mixture into small sausage-shaped patties, approximately 8-10cm (3-4 inches) long and 2cm (0.8 inches) in diameter.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the surface with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. 4.
   Grill the Ćevapi for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and nicely browned.
5. 5.
   While the Ćevapi are grilling, warm the pita bread in a separate pan or on the grill.
6. 6.
   Serve the Mediterranean-style Ćevapi hot, wrapped in warm pita bread, accompanied by fresh Mediterranean salad and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground chicken and turkey — Ensure the meat is well-chilled before mixing to make it easier to handle and shape into patties.
• Fresh herbs — Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. If unavailable, you can substitute with dried herbs, but reduce the quantity by half.
• Tzatziki sauce — Prepare the tzatziki sauce in advance to allow the flavors to meld together. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, marinate the meat mixture in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before shaping and grilling the Ćevapi.
• If you prefer a smoky flavor, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika to the meat mixture.
• Serve the Ćevapi with a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing citrus twist.
• If you don't have a grill or grill pan, you can also cook the Ćevapi in a skillet over medium heat.
• Leftover Ćevapi can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day. Reheat them in a pan or microwave until heated through.

Serving advice

Serve the Mediterranean-style Ćevapi as a main course, accompanied by warm pita bread, fresh Mediterranean salad, and tzatziki sauce. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra touch of color and freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled Ćevapi on a platter, neatly lined up and garnished with fresh herbs. Place the warm pita bread alongside the Ćevapi, and serve the fresh Mediterranean salad and tzatziki sauce in separate bowls for guests to help themselves.