Bihari-style Dželadija

Ingredients

In this Bihari adaptation of Dželadija, we incorporate Bihari spices such as cumin, coriander, and mustard seeds to infuse the dish with the distinct flavors of Bihari cuisine. Additionally, we use traditional Bihari cooking techniques to enhance the taste and texture of the meatballs, resulting in a unique and flavorful dish that pays homage to both Bosnian and Bihari culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Dželadija, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 400g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes 400g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup (240ml) beef broth 1 cup (240ml) beef broth
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 22g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, mustard seeds, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Shape the mixture into small meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter.
3. 3.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
4. 4.
   In the same skillet, add the canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
5. 5.
   Return the meatballs to the skillet and bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
6. 6.
   Serve the Bihari-style Dželadija hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy with rice or naan bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef — Use lean ground beef for healthier meatballs. If you prefer a juicier texture, opt for ground beef with a slightly higher fat content.
• Cumin — Toasting the cumin seeds before grinding them will enhance their flavor. Simply heat a dry skillet over medium heat, add the cumin seeds, and toast for a few minutes until fragrant. Then grind them into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture.
• If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend the canned diced tomatoes before adding them to the skillet.
• To save time, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook.
• Experiment with different herbs such as mint or cilantro in the meatball mixture for added freshness.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve Bihari-style Dželadija hot, accompanied by steamed rice or warm naan bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the meatballs in a shallow serving dish, spoon the sauce over them, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve with a side of fluffy rice or warm naan bread to complete the presentation.