Cevapi Recipe

Cevapi recipe – Traditionally made with a blend of minced beef and lamb, seasoned with garlic, paprika, and other aromatic spices, these succulent sausages are a staple at gatherings, festivals, and family meals across Croatia.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground lamb
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1/4 cup sparkling water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Warm flatbread, for serving
• Ajvar (roasted red pepper and eggplant relish), for serving
• Diced onions, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
   1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground lamb, minced garlic, paprika, black pepper, salt, baking soda, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Form the Sausages:
   1. Wet your hands with sparkling water to prevent the meat from sticking, then take small portions of the meat mixture and shape them into finger-length sausages, about 2-3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick. Place the formed sausages on a plate or tray.
3. Grill the Cevapi:
   1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates with vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Once hot, place the Cevapi on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked through and nicely charred on the outside.
4. Serve Hot:
   1. Transfer the grilled Cevapi to a serving platter. Serve them hot with warm flatbread, ajvar, and diced onions on the side. Encourage guests to assemble their own sandwiches by wrapping the Cevapi in the flatbread and topping them with ajvar and onions.
5. Enjoy the Taste of Croatia:
   1. Indulge in the smoky, savory goodness of Croatian Cevapi—a culinary delight that captures the essence of the Adriatic Coast. Whether enjoyed at a summer barbecue or cozy dinner at home, Cevapi is sure to transport you to the sun-kissed shores of Croatia with every delicious bite. Dobar tek! (Enjoy your meal!)