Discover the ultimate recipe for Cevapi, traditional grilled minced meat sausages packed with rich flavors. Perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection, these savory sausages are best enjoyed with soft and warm somun bread. Learn how to make this classic Balkan dish at home and impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering meal.

Ingredients:

- 500g ground beef

- 250g ground lamb or pork (optional)

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 3 garlic cloves, minced

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1 teaspoon black pepper

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

- 1/4 cup water

- Somun bread or pita bread, for serving

- Chopped onions and ajvar (pepper spread), for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat Mixture:

  - In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and lamb/pork (if using).

  - Add finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and baking soda.

  - Gradually mix in the water to keep the mixture moist.

  - Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.

  - Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

Shape the Cevapi:

  - After the meat mixture has rested, take small portions and shape them into sausage-like rolls, about 3 inches long and 1 inch thick.

Grill the Cevapi:

  - Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

  - Grill the Cevapi for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are cooked through and have a nice char on the outside.

Serve:

  - Serve the grilled Cevapi with warm somun or pita bread.

  - Garnish with chopped onions and ajvar for added flavor.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Cevapi, a true taste of the Balkans!

Nutritional Values

Ground Beef

 - Calories: 250

 - Protein: 26g

 - Fat: 17g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

 - High in protein, essential for muscle building and repair.

 - Rich in iron, which supports healthy red blood cells and prevents anemia.

 - Provides B vitamins, especially B12, which is crucial for brain health and energy production.

Ground Lamb/Pork (optional)

 - Calories: 294

 - Protein: 25g

 - Fat: 21g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

(per 100g of pork):

 - Calories: 242

 - Protein: 27g

 - Fat: 14g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

 - High-quality protein source.

 - Rich in zinc, which supports the immune system and promotes healing.

 - Lamb is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health.

Onion

 - Calories: 40

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 9g

Benefits:

 - Contains antioxidants, such as quercetin, which may reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.

 - Good source of vitamin C, which supports immune health and skin integrity.

 - May help improve heart health and regulate blood sugar levels.

Garlic

 - Calories: 149

 - Protein: 6g

 - Fat: 0.5g

 - Carbohydrates: 33g

Benefits:

 - Contains allicin, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

 - May support heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

 - Boosts the immune system and may help fight off infections.

Salt

 - Calories: 0

 - Sodium: 38,758mg

Benefits:

 - Essential for fluid balance and nerve function.

 - However, excessive intake can lead to high blood pressure and other health issues, so it should be used in moderation.

Black Pepper

 - Calories: 255

 - Protein: 10g

 - Fat: 3g

 - Carbohydrates: 64g

Benefits:

 - Contains piperine, which may enhance nutrient absorption and digestion.

 - Provides antioxidant properties that help protect cells from damage.

 - May have anti-inflammatory effects.

Paprika

 - Calories: 282

 - Protein: 14g

 - Fat: 12g

 - Carbohydrates: 56g

Benefits:

 - Rich in vitamins A and C, which are important for eye health and immune function.

 - Contains antioxidants, such as capsaicin, which may have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.

Baking Soda

 - Calories: 0

 - Sodium: 27,000mg

Benefits:

 - Used in small quantities as a leavening agent, it helps improve the texture of baked goods.

 - Can neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from indigestion when used in moderation.

Water

 - Calories: 0

 - No significant macronutrients

Benefits:

 - Essential for hydration and overall bodily functions.

 - Helps in the mixing and moistening of the meat mixture for better texture.

Somun Bread/Pita Bread

 - Calories: 270

 - Protein: 9g

 - Fat: 1g

 - Carbohydrates: 56g

Benefits:

 - Provides carbohydrates for energy.

 - Can be a good source of fiber and nutrients depending on the type of flour used.

Ajvar

 - Calories: 95

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 6g

 - Carbohydrates: 9g

Benefits:

 - Rich in vitamins A and C from bell peppers.

 - Contains antioxidants that support overall health.

These values are approximate and can vary depending on specific brands or preparation methods.