Entree: Montenegro – Southern Culinary Region – Pljeskavica (A Balkan grilled mixed-meat patty, richly seasoned and traditionally served with flatbread and condiments)

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 20 min

Cook 12 min

Additional 1 hr

Total 1 hr 32 min

Ingredients

- 1 lb (454 g) ground beef
- 1 lb (454 g) ground pork
- 1 medium onion, very finely chopped, about 6 oz (170 g)
- 1 large egg, beaten, about 50 g
- 1/2 cup (60 g) plain breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) vegetable oil
- 2 cloves (about 6 g) garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) sweet paprika
- 1 tsp (5 ml) hot paprika or cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp (5 g) baking soda
- 1 1/2 tsp (8 g) kosher salt
- 1 tsp (2 g) freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup (15 g) fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil for grilling or pan-frying
- 4 flatbreads or lepina, about 4 each (optional for serving)
- 1/2 cup (120 g) ajvar (roasted red pepper relish) for serving
- Sliced raw onion and lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. In a large bowl combine the ground beef and ground pork with the finely chopped onion, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, paprika, baking soda, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix gently until just combined—avoid overworking the meat.
2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a round patty about 3/4–1 inch (2–2.5 cm) thick. Press a slight indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
3. Cover the patties and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes to let flavors meld and the mixture firm up.
4. Preheat a grill, cast-iron skillet, or griddle over medium-high heat and brush with olive oil. Cook the patties 4–6 minutes per side, turning once, until a deep crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Remove patties and let rest 5 minutes. Warm flatbreads briefly on the grill.
6. Serve each pljeskavica in flatbread with ajvar, sliced raw onion, a squeeze of lemon, and additional condiments such as mustard or kajmak if desired.