Pljeskavica is a Serbian dish that is a type of grilled meat patty, typically made from a mixture of ground beef, lamb, and pork. This is a staple food at Serbian barbecues and gatherings, as well as festivals, and street food markets.
Pljeskavica is often served with traditional accompaniments such as lepinja (a round bread), kajmak (a creamy dairy product), ajvar (a red pepper relish), onions, and a variety of fresh salads.
Origin & Cultural Significance
Originating from the Balkan region, Pljeskavica is believed to have been influenced by the Ottoman Empire. The dish is reminiscent of Turkish köfte or Bosnian ćevapi, which are both grilled meat patties.
While the classic version of Pljeskavica consists of a mixture of beef, lamb, and pork, there are variations that incorporate different ratios of meat or use alternative meats, such as veal or chicken.
Additionally, there are some regional variations within Serbia may include additional ingredients like cheese or herbs to enhance the flavor profile of the patties.
Serbian Pljeskavica Recipe
Pljeskavica is a Serbian dish that is a type of grilled meat patty, typically made from a mixture of ground beef, lamb, and pork. This is a staple food at Serbian barbecues and gatherings.
Ingredients
- Ground beef - 500g
- Ground pork - 300g
- Ground lamb - 200g
- Onion, finely chopped - 1
- Cloves of garlic, minced - 2
- Paprika - 1 tsp
- Ground black pepper - 1 tsp
- Salt - 1 tsp
- Cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) - 1/2 tsp
- Dried oregano - 1/2 tsp
- Dried thyme - 1/2 tsp
- Lepinja (Serbian bread) or burger buns, for serving - 6
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, lamb, and pork.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, ground paprika, salt, black pepper, and any optional herbs and spices. Mix well until all of the ingredients are evenly combined.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Divide the meat mixture into equal portions and shape them into large, flat patties, about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick.
- Grill the Pljeskavica patties for about 5-7 minutes per side or until they are cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- While the meat is grilling, lightly toast the lepinja or burger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
- Once cooked, remove the Pljeskavica from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 604Total Fat: 33gSaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 17gCholesterol: 154mgSodium: 749mgCarbohydrates: 25gFiber: 2gSugar: 4gProtein: 48g
Nutrition is provided and calculated by Nutritionix. It is for general information purposes and is only a rough estimation.