Recipe for Authentic Čevapčići – A Balkan Classic

Ćevapčići, also known as Ćevapi, are one of the most popular dishes in the Balkans and a real treat for meat lovers. These small, flavorful meat rolls made from beef and/or lamb are traditionally grilled and served with fresh bread and onions. While there are many variations, we’re sharing an authentic recipe here that captures the true taste of this Balkan specialty.

Ingredients for 4-6 people:

• 500 g beef minced = 17.64 oz

• 300 g lamb minced = 10.58 oz (optional, but recommended for traditional flavor)

• 1 onion (finely chopped)

• 2-3 garlic cloves (finely chopped)

• 1 tsp paprika powder

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp ground pepper (optional, for more heat)

• 2 tbsp olive oil (optional, for a juicier texture)

• 50 ml water = 1.69 fl oz (use as needed to adjust consistency)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the Meat:

   If you're using both beef and lamb, combine them in a large bowl. If you prefer only one type of meat, that's perfectly fine as well.

   
   

2. Adding Spices and Flavors:

   Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture. Mix everything thoroughly with your hands or a spoon to evenly distribute the spices.

   
   

3. Baking Soda and Water:

   Add the baking soda, which helps with binding and gives the meat a tender texture. Then slowly pour in the water (about 50 ml / 1.69 fl oz) to keep the mixture moist and smooth. This step prevents the Čevapčići from drying out while grilling.

   
   

4. Mixing and Resting:

   Combine all ingredients well, ensuring the mixture has a consistent texture. For the best results, let the mixture rest in the fridge for at least an hour. This will help the flavors meld together and make the meat firmer.

   
   

5. Shaping the Čevapčići:

   Take small portions of the meat mixture (about 40-50 g / 1.4-1.75 oz each) and shape them into small, finger-like sausages. The traditional shape is cylindrical, about 8-10 cm / 3-4 inches long and 2-3 cm / 0.8-1.2 inches thick.

   
   

6. Grilling:

   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you don't have access to a grill, you can use a grill pan.

   Place the Čevapčići on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Be sure to turn them regularly to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

   
   

7. Serving:

   Traditionally, serve the Čevapčići with flatbread (Lebanese-style bread or pita), a generous portion of onions, and a dollop of Ajvar (pepper paste). In many Balkan countries, they're also served with refreshing yogurt or a yogurt-based sauce. Enjoy!

   
   
   
   

Tips:

Meat choice: For the best flavor, you can use a mix of ground beef and lamb. Lamb gives the Čevapčići the traditional taste, but you can also use just beef if you prefer.

Spices: Experiment with different spices, but the basic ingredients are paprika, garlic, and onion, which are essential for the authentic taste.

Oven preparation: If you don’t have a grill, you can also make Čevapčići in the oven. Place them on a baking sheet and bake at 392°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning once to crisp them on all sides.

Conclusion:

The recipe serves about 4-6 people, depending on how many Čevapčići you serve per person. Typically, you would count about 3-4 pieces per person, especially if there are side dishes like bread, onions, and Ajvar.

If you have more guests or want to make larger portions, simply double or adjust the quantities of the ingredients.

Original Čevapčići are a simple yet incredibly tasty dish that reflects the diversity and rich culinary tradition of the Balkans. Perfect for BBQ parties, as dinner, or even as a snack – these spicy meat rolls are always a hit!