Pljeskavica

Experience the bold and savory flavors of the Balkans with Pljeskavica, a traditional Serbian dish often described as the ultimate grilled burger. This hearty recipe combines a rich blend of ground beef and pork with aromatic spices like sweet paprika and a touch of cayenne for a subtle kick. Finely chopped onions and garlic lend depth, while a hint of baking soda ensures a tender, juicy patty every time. Grilled to perfection, these large, flat patties boast a smoky charred exterior and pair beautifully with freshly toasted flatbreads, such as lepinja or pita. Serve your Pljeskavica with classic Balkan accompaniments like ajvar, sliced onions, and crisp greens for a truly authentic and satisfying meal. Perfect for a backyard barbecue or casual family dinner, this dish is a must-try for lovers of global cuisine looking to elevate their grilling game.

Nutriscore Rating: 61/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams ground beef
• 200 grams ground pork
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons sunflower oil
• 4 pieces flatbreads (e.g., lepinja or pita)

Directions

Step 1

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

Step 2

Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the meat mixture.

Step 3

Season the mixture with sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4

Dissolve the baking soda in water, then pour it over the meat mixture and blend everything well using your hands.

Step 5

Once the ingredients are thoroughly combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 6

After chilling, divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions.

Step 7

Shape each portion into a large, flat patty, approximately 1 cm thick.

Step 8

Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly brush with sunflower oil.

Step 9

Grill each patty for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred on the outside.

Step 10

While the patties are grilling, lightly toast the flatbreads on the grill for an added touch of texture and warmth.

Step 11

Serve each pljeskavica on a piece of flatbread with your choice of toppings and condiments, such as ajvar (roasted red pepper relish), sliced onions, and fresh salad.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1126.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2674.1

Total Fat 161.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 54.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 18.4g
Cholesterol 534.0mg	0%
Sodium 4773.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 149.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 9.5g	0%
Total Sugars 8.6g
Protein 150.4g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 195.9mg	0%
Iron 21.0mg	0%
Potassium 1754.9mg	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: 54.8%

Protein: 22.7%

Carbs: 22.5%