Mediterranean Diet Authentic Balkan Cevapi

Experience the irresistible flavors of the Mediterranean with this Authentic Balkan Cevapi recipe, a perfect blend of tradition and wholesome Mediterranean diet principles. These succulent, handcrafted minced meat sausages combine tender ground beef and lamb with aromatic spices like paprika, garlic, and black pepper, creating a rich and smoky flavor profile. The mixture is kept perfectly moist with olive oil and a touch of water, ensuring each cevapi remains juicy and tender. Grilled to perfection for a delightful charred exterior, these savory bites are ideal for any occasion. Serve them warm with soft flatbread, freshly chopped onions, and a traditional side of ajvar for an authentic Balkan feast. Ready in just 30 minutes, this protein-packed dish is a must-try for fans of Mediterranean cuisine and bold, satisfying flavors.

Nutriscore Rating: 56/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 250 grams ground beef
• 250 grams ground lamb
• 1 medium onion
• 3 pieces garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons water

Directions

Step 1

Finely chop the medium onion and crush the garlic cloves.

Step 2

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

Step 3

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

Step 4

Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of water to the bowl to keep the mixture moist and help with binding.

Step 5

Use your hands to mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.

Step 6

Divide the mixture into small, equal portions (about 25 grams each) and shape them into sausage forms, approximately 3 inches long.

Step 7

Place the formed cevapi onto a plate, cover them with cling film, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help the flavors meld.

Step 8

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

Step 9

Lightly oil the grill grates or pan to prevent the cevapi from sticking.

Step 10

Grill the cevapi for about 4-5 minutes on each side, turning once, until they are cooked through and have a nice charred exterior.

Step 11

Remove the cevapi from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 12

Serve the cevapi warm, traditionally with flatbread, fresh onions, and a side of ajvar or red pepper sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(714.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1470.5

Total Fat 107.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 40.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.8g
Cholesterol 417.0mg	0%
Sodium 4134.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 20.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 3.5g	0%
Total Sugars 7.3g
Protein 102.2g	0%

Vitamin D 10IU	0%
Calcium 159.5mg	0%
Iron 10.7mg	0%
Potassium 1789.4mg	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: 66.4%

Protein: 28.0%

Carbs: 5.5%