Chevapchichi

Chevapchichi, a Balkan classic, is a flavorful blend of ground beef and lamb seasoned with garlic, onion, paprika, and a touch of baking soda for superb tenderness. This traditional dish is shaped into small sausage-like links and expertly grilled to achieve a juicy interior and a perfect charred exterior. What makes this recipe truly shine is the incorporation of mineral water, which results in a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Quick to prepare and packed with savory spices, it's ideal for summer barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for hearty comfort food. Serve these smoky, spiced delights with fluffy flatbread, zesty ajvar, and a side of chopped onions for an authentic experience that captures the essence of Balkan cuisine.

Nutriscore Rating: 54/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 500 g ground beef
• 500 g ground lamb
• 1 large yellow onion
• 4 garlic cloves
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 60 ml mineral water

Directions

Step 1

Peel and finely chop the yellow onion.

Step 2

Peel and mince the garlic cloves.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground lamb.

Step 4

Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and baking soda to the meat mixture.

Step 5

Mix everything well using your hands to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the meat.

Step 6

Gradually add the mineral water to the meat mixture, mixing continuously until the mixture is smooth and slightly sticky.

Step 7

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to blend.

Step 8

After chilling, divide the meat mixture into small portions, about two tablespoons each.

Step 9

Shape each portion into small sausages, approximately 3 inches long and 1 inch thick.

Step 10

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.

Step 11

Once the grill is hot, place the chevapchichi on the grill.

Step 12

Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the sausages are browned on all sides and cooked through.

Step 13

Serve hot with sides like onions, ajvar, and flatbread.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1246.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2601.5

Total Fat 186.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 75.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 7.0g
Cholesterol 834.0mg	0%
Sodium 8262.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 20.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 4.4g	0%
Total Sugars 6.7g
Protein 201.2g	0%

Vitamin D 20IU	0%
Calcium 222.0mg	0%
Iron 20.3mg	0%
Potassium 3223.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 65.4%

Protein: 31.4%

Carbs: 3.3%