Balinese-inspired Uštipci

Ingredients

In this Balinese-inspired adaptation of Hercegovački uštipci, we incorporate Balinese spices such as lemongrass, turmeric, and galangal to infuse the dish with a tropical twist. These flavors complement the traditional Bosnian recipe, adding a new dimension to the dish and creating a unique fusion of cuisines. We alse have the original recipe for Hercegovački uštipci, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) minced meat (beef or pork) 500g (1.1 lb) minced meat (beef or pork)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 stalk of lemongrass, finely chopped 1 stalk of lemongrass, finely chopped
• 1 thumb-sized piece of galangal, grated 1 thumb-sized piece of galangal, grated
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh coriander, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh coriander, chopped
• 2 eggs 2 eggs
• 100g (3.5 oz) breadcrumbs 100g (3.5 oz) breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, lemongrass, grated galangal, ground turmeric, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, fresh parsley, and fresh coriander.
2. 2.
   Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
3. 3.
   Add the eggs to the mixture and mix again until the eggs are fully incorporated.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the breadcrumbs to the mixture, mixing well after each addition, until the mixture holds together and can be easily shaped into patties.
5. 5.
   Shape the mixture into small patties, about the size of a golf ball.
6. 6.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium heat.
7. 7.
   Fry the uštipci in batches until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and cooked through on the inside. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side.
8. 8.
   Remove the uštipci from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
9. 9.
   Serve the Balinese-inspired uštipci hot, garnished with fresh herbs and accompanied by a dipping sauce of your choice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lemongrass — Remove the tough outer layers before finely chopping the tender inner part for a more delicate flavor.
• Galangal — If you can't find fresh galangal, you can substitute it with dried galangal powder, but use half the amount.
• Breadcrumbs — If you prefer a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with almond flour for a low-carb option.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, serve the uštipci with a spicy sambal sauce or a tangy peanut sauce.
• If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of lemongrass and galangal.
• Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the uštipci to ensure a crispy exterior.
• To keep the uštipci warm while frying in batches, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 120°C (250°F).
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of the uštipci.

Serving advice

Serve the Balinese-inspired uštipci as an appetizer with a side of sambal sauce or peanut sauce for dipping. Alternatively, serve them as a main course accompanied by steamed rice and a fresh Balinese salad.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Balinese-inspired uštipci on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as coriander and parsley. Serve them alongside a small bowl of dipping sauce and add a pop of color with a few slices of lime or chili peppers.