Ćevapi
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Bosnian

Ćevapi

Cevapi

The Balkans' most beloved street food — small, finger-shaped ground meat sausages (pork, beef and lamb blend) grilled over charcoal until charred outside and juicy within. Stuffed into a lepinja flatbread with raw onion and ajvar.

Total
50 min
Serves
4
Level
Easy

Prep 20 min · Cook 30 min

Ingredients

4 servings

Method

  1. Combine all three ground meats in a bowl. Add garlic, baking soda, sparkling water, salt, pepper and paprika. Mix vigorously with your hands for 3–4 minutes — this develops the protein and creates the characteristic tight texture. The mix should be sticky and homogeneous.

    About 5 min

  2. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour (overnight is better) — the rest period is essential for the ćevapi to hold their shape on the grill.

    About 14 min

  3. With wet hands, shape into finger-shaped sausages, about 8–10 cm long and 2 cm in diameter. Use consistent pressure to get tight, smooth surfaces.

    About 14 min

  4. Grill on a preheated, well-oiled grill or griddle over very high heat. Cook 2–3 minutes per side, turning every 2 minutes, for about 8–10 minutes total until charred all over and cooked through.

    About 14 min

  5. Split warm lepinja bread. Pile 5–6 ćevapi inside. Add a generous heap of finely diced raw onion and a spoonful of ajvar. Optionally add a dollop of kajmak or sour cream. Eat immediately.

    About 3 min

Nutrition per serving (estimate)

Calories
540
Protein
38 g
Carbs
28 g
Fat
30 g
Fibre
2 g
Sugar
3 g
Sodium
820 mg

Contains: gluten, dairy

Recipe by Boon Tools.