Iločki ćevap with Ajvar Sauce

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 500g (1.1 lb) ground pork 500g (1.1 lb) ground pork
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Ajvar sauce: Ajvar sauce:
• 2 red bell peppers 2 red bell peppers
• 1 small eggplant 1 small eggplant
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste Salt to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 32g, 11g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 4g, 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, minced garlic, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Shape the meat mixture into small rolls, approximately 5cm (2 inches) in length and 2cm (0.8 inches) in diameter.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Brush the meat rolls with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
5. 5.
   Grill the meat rolls for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and have a slightly charred exterior.
6. 6.
   While the meat rolls are grilling, prepare the Ajvar sauce. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
7. 7.
   Place the red bell peppers and eggplant on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the skins are charred and blistered.
8. 8.
   Remove the roasted vegetables from the oven and let them cool slightly. Peel off the charred skins and discard.
9. 9.
   In a food processor, combine the roasted red peppers, eggplant, minced garlic, olive oil, and salt. Blend until smooth.
10. 10.
    Transfer the Ajvar sauce to a serving bowl.
11. 11.
    Serve the grilled Iločki ćevap with the Ajvar sauce on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef and pork — Ensure that the meat is well-chilled before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will make it easier to handle and shape into rolls.
• Red bell peppers and eggplant — Make sure to roast the vegetables until the skins are charred and blistered. This will give the Ajvar sauce a smoky flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
• If you prefer a spicier Ajvar sauce, add a small amount of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Serve the Iločki ćevap with warm pita bread or flatbread for a complete meal.
• If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the meat rolls on a stovetop grill pan or in the oven under the broiler.
• Leftover Ajvar sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Iločki ćevap hot off the grill, accompanied by a generous dollop of Ajvar sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. This dish pairs well with a side of roasted potatoes or a fresh salad.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled meat rolls on a platter, placing a small bowl of Ajvar sauce in the center. Sprinkle some paprika or black pepper over the sauce for an added visual appeal. Serve with a side of warm bread and garnish with fresh herbs.