Balkan-style Grilled Meat Rolls

Ingredients

In this adaptation of the original Bosnian dish, the Balkan-style Grilled Meat Rolls incorporate the unique flavors and spices commonly found in Balkan cuisine. The addition of paprika, garlic, and cumin enhances the taste profile, giving the dish a distinct Balkan twist. The traditional accompaniments of warm flatbread, fresh onions, and ajvar sauce remain unchanged, as they perfectly complement the flavors of the meat rolls. We alse have the original recipe for Travnički ćevapi, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 250g (0.55 lb) ground lamb 250g (0.55 lb) ground lamb
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Warm flatbread, for serving Warm flatbread, for serving
• Fresh onions, thinly sliced, for serving Fresh onions, thinly sliced, for serving
• Ajvar sauce, for serving Ajvar sauce, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 2g, 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground lamb, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Take a small portion of the meat mixture and shape it into a small roll, approximately 5cm (2 inches) long and 2cm (0.8 inches) in diameter. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the meat rolls on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through.
4. 4.
   Remove the meat rolls from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
5. 5.
   Serve the Balkan-style Grilled Meat Rolls with warm flatbread, thinly sliced fresh onions, and ajvar sauce on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef and lamb — Use lean cuts of meat for a healthier option. Ensure the meat is well-chilled before mixing to make it easier to handle.
• Ajvar sauce — You can make your own ajvar sauce by roasting red bell peppers, eggplant, and garlic, then blending them with olive oil and vinegar. Alternatively, you can find ready-made ajvar sauce in specialty stores.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, you can add finely chopped onions or grated onion to the meat mixture.
• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
• Serve the meat rolls with a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing twist.

Serving advice

Serve the Balkan-style Grilled Meat Rolls on a platter with warm flatbread, thinly sliced fresh onions, and ajvar sauce on the side. Allow your guests to assemble their own rolls by placing a meat roll on a piece of flatbread, topping it with onions, and drizzling ajvar sauce over it. This interactive serving style adds to the enjoyment of the meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled meat rolls on a platter, placing them in a neat row. Garnish the platter with fresh herbs, such as parsley or mint, for a pop of color. Serve the warm flatbread in a basket or on a separate plate, and present the ajvar sauce in a small bowl for dipping.