Serbian 'pljeskavica': The gourmet burger alternative

Pljeskavica is a true delicacy from the Balkans that has become a cherished dish in my family. These delicious meat patties, resembling burgers, quickly captured our hearts and introduced an exotic flavour to our kitchen. Pljeskavica, fondly referred to by my loved ones as the "Serbian burger," is 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 flavour 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, similar to a burger, allowing for a crispy crust and juicy interior.

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

Ingredients:

• 450 grams 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 1.5 centimetres 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 delightful, crispy crust that perfectly complements the soft interior. This dish tastes excellent, served in a bun with lettuce, tomato, and onion, but it also works well as a standalone dish served with sauce, chips, and your favourite salad.