Heart-Healthy Authentic Balkan Cevapi

Discover a guilt-free twist on a classic Balkan favorite with this Heart-Healthy Authentic Balkan Cevapi recipe! Made with lean ground turkey instead of traditional beef or lamb, these irresistible, sausage-shaped morsels are seasoned to perfection with paprika, garlic, and fresh parsley. A touch of sparkling water ensures tender, juicy bites, while the use of baking soda lightens the texture. Grilled until golden brown, these savory delights are served in warm whole wheat pita bread for added fiber and paired with a creamy side of low-fat yogurt. Ready in just 35 minutes, this wholesome, protein-rich dish is perfect for a nutritious family meal or a flavorful weeknight treat. Looking for a way to savor Balkan cuisine while prioritizing your heart health? This recipe is your answer!

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams lean ground turkey
• 1 medium onion
• 2 large garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
• 3 tablespoons sparkling water
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
• 4 pieces whole wheat pita bread
• 200 grams low-fat yogurt

Directions

Step 1

Finely chop the onion and garlic cloves. Alternatively, you can grate the onion to release more juices and enhance the flavor.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground turkey, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, black pepper, salt, and baking soda.

Step 3

Add the sparkling water to the meat mixture. This step helps tenderize the meat and keep the cevapi moist during cooking.

Step 4

Chop the fresh parsley finely and add it to the meat mixture. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 5

Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. You can leave it overnight for better results.

Step 6

Preheat a grill or a large non-stick pan over medium heat.

Step 7

While the grill heats up, form the cevapi mixture into small, sausage-like shapes about 3 inches long. Wet your hands slightly to prevent the mixture from sticking.

Step 8

Place the cevapi on the preheated grill or pan. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and golden brown.

Step 9

Warm the whole wheat pita breads on the grill or in a toaster.

Step 10

Serve the cevapi hot, tucked inside the pita bread with a side of low-fat yogurt for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1121.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1530.5

Total Fat 43.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 11.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.5g
Cholesterol 370.4mg	0%
Sodium 4477.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 170.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 18.5g	0%
Total Sugars 29.5g
Protein 136.6g	0%

Vitamin D 111.9IU	0%
Calcium 593.9mg	0%
Iron 15.9mg	0%
Potassium 2455.9mg	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: 24.3%

Protein: 33.6%

Carbs: 42.1%