Vegetarian Pljeskavica

Experience a plant-based twist on a Balkan classic with our Vegetarian Pljeskavica recipe! This hearty bean-and-veggie patty is crafted from protein-packed canned kidney beans, vibrant red bell pepper, carrots, and aromatic spices like smoky paprika and earthy cumin. Enhanced with fresh parsley and a delicate breadcrumb texture, these patties are pan-fried to golden perfection in olive oil for a crispy outside and tender interior. Ready in just 40 minutes, this vegetarian version of the iconic Serbian dish is perfect for a satisfying dinner or served in a bun as a gourmet veggie burger. Pair with a crisp salad, creamy sauces, or your favorite sides for a flavorful, meatless meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or tradition.

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 400 grams canned kidney beans
• 1 medium red onion
• 2 large garlic cloves
• 1 medium red bell pepper
• 1 medium carrot
• 100 grams breadcrumbs
• 2 teaspoons ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

Step 1

Drain and rinse the canned kidney beans thoroughly, then place them in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2

Finely chop the red onion, garlic cloves, red bell pepper, and carrot, then add them to the mixing bowl with the beans.

Step 3

Using a fork or potato masher, mash the kidney beans until they are partially broken down, but still chunky.

Step 4

Add the breadcrumbs, ground paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, finely chopped fresh parsley, beaten egg, salt, and black pepper to the bowl.

Step 5

Mix all ingredients thoroughly until you have a uniform mixture.

Step 6

Divide the mixture into four equal parts and shape each into a patty, approximately 1-inch thick.

Step 7

In a large non-stick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 8

Place the patties in the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, until golden brown and heated through.

Step 9

Serve warm, optionally with fresh salad, buns, or your favorite sauces.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(928.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1357.4

Total Fat 45.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 8.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.6g
Cholesterol 219.5mg	0%
Sodium 5095.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 193.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 38.7g	0%
Total Sugars 20.9g
Protein 56.7g	0%

Vitamin D 53.8IU	0%
Calcium 350.2mg	0%
Iron 22.2mg	0%
Potassium 2556.0mg	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: 28.9%

Protein: 16.1%

Carbs: 55.0%