Croatian Bandit Kebab Hajducki Chevap

Dive into the bold and rustic flavors of the Balkans with Croatian Bandit Kebab Hajdučki Čevap, a traditional delight that combines juicy ground beef and pork infused with garlic, sweet paprika, cumin, and a touch of sparkling water for unparalleled tenderness. These perfectly spiced kebabs are shaped around skewers and grilled to smoky perfection, creating a charred exterior that locks in the savory juices. Whether served with warm flatbreads, crisp chopped onions, and a dollop of tangy ajvar—a rich roasted red pepper spread—this dish captures the essence of Croatian cuisine in every bite. Ideal for summer barbecues or weeknight grilling, this easy yet authentic recipe promises a delightful taste of Croatia to elevate your dining experience.

Nutriscore Rating: 61/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams Ground beef
• 500 grams Ground pork
• 4 pieces Garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon Sweet paprika
• 2 teaspoons Salt
• 1 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons Sparkling water
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• 10 pieces Wooden or metal skewers
• 4 pieces Flatbreads
• 1 cup Chopped onions
• 1 cup Ajvar (roasted red pepper spread)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork using your hands to mix evenly.

Step 2

Finely mince the garlic cloves and add them to the bowl along with sweet paprika, salt, black pepper, and ground cumin. Mix thoroughly until the spices are incorporated throughout the meat.

Step 3

Add the sparkling water and vegetable oil to the meat mixture. The sparkling water helps keep the kebabs tender during cooking. Mix until the meat is smooth and slightly sticky.

Step 4

Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and let the meat mixture rest in the fridge for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.

Step 6

After the meat has rested, divide the mixture into 10 equal portions. Shape each portion into a long, sausage-like shape around a skewer. Ensure the meat is evenly compressed and adheres tightly to the skewer.

Step 7

Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grate to prevent sticking.

Step 8

Place the skewered kebabs on the grill. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is fully cooked and has a nice char on the outside.

Step 9

Remove the kebabs from the grill and serve immediately. Pair with warm flatbreads, chopped onions, and a generous dollop of ajvar for a truly authentic Croatian experience.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1703.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3719.1

Total Fat 249.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 82.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.8g
Cholesterol 804.0mg	0%
Sodium 7341.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 149.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 17.1g	0%
Total Sugars 23.6g
Protein 237.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 372.7mg	0%
Iron 22.9mg	0%
Potassium 2384.7mg	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: 59.2%

Protein: 25.1%

Carbs: 15.7%