Serbian burger delight: Bring pljeskavica to your table

Pljeskavica is a true delicacy from the Balkans and has become a favorite dish in my family. These delicious meat patties, resembling burgers, quickly won us over and added a touch of exotic flavor to our kitchen. Often referred to by my loved ones as the "Serbian burger," pljeskavica offers a tasty alternative to classic meat patties, perfect for lunch or dinner.

Pljeskavica is a traditional Balkan dish that has gained tremendous popularity due to its unique flavor and simple form. It is a minced meat patty made from a mix of beef and pork, seasoned with onions, garlic, and hot paprika. What distinguishes pljeskavica from a classic patty? Primarily, its shape is flattened like a burger, allowing for a crispy crust and juicy interior.

Preparing pljeskavica at home is simple and doesn't require complicated ingredients. The Balkan recipe relies on a meat mixture seasoned with onions, garlic, and hot paprika, giving the dish its distinctive taste. To make pljeskavica, you only need a few basic ingredients and a grill pan or a grill.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound mixed ground meat (beef and pork)
• 1 large onion
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 teaspoon hot paprika powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Preparation:

1. Place the ground meat in a large bowl.
2. Add finely chopped onion and garlic pressed through a garlic press.
3. Season the meat with hot paprika, salt, and pepper according to your preferences.
4. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly with your hands.
5. Shape the mixture into flat patties about 0.6 inches thick.
6. Heat oil in a grill pan or regular pan and fry the patties on both sides until golden brown.

Thanks to grilling, pljeskavica gains a pleasant, crispy crust that perfectly complements the soft interior. This dish tastes great, served in a bun with lettuce, tomato, and onion, but it also works well as a standalone dish served with sauce, fries, and your favorite salad.