Pljeskavica is Serbia’s classic grilled meat patty, seasoned simply and served with bright ajvar, onions, and warm bread.
A little sparkling water keeps the meat mixture tender, while a long chill gives the paprika and onion time to season every bite.
Oil your hands lightly when shaping the patties and make them wider than the bread because they shrink on the grill.
Serving Suggestions
Serve in lepinja or flatbread with ajvar, sliced onion, pickled peppers, and a spoonful of sour cream.
Recipe Notes
The mixture can be made up to 24 hours ahead. Cook the patties to 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
Serbian Pljeskavica
Juicy Serbian grilled beef-and-pork patties with paprika, onion, ajvar, and warm flatbread.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Grill or grill pan
- Instant-read thermometer
- Baking sheet
- Chef’s knife
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 preferred
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 medium yellow onion finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp sweet paprika
- 1/2 cup sparkling water
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
To Serve
- 1/2 cup ajvar
- 4 count flatbreads warmed
- 1 medium onion thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp neutral oil for grilling
Instructions
Mix and Chill:
- Combine the beef, pork, onion, garlic, paprika, sparkling water, salt, and pepper until just mixed.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Shape and Grill:
- Divide into four portions and shape each into a thin patty about 6 inches wide.
- Oil a hot grill or grill pan and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through.
Serve:
- Warm the flatbreads and fill with the patties, ajvar, and sliced onion.
- Serve immediately with pickled peppers or a crisp salad.
Notes
- Do not overwork the meat or the patties will become dense.
- A hot grill is essential for browned edges and a juicy center.
Nutrition
Calories: 690kcalCarbohydrates: 39gProtein: 42gFat: 39gSaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 135mgSodium: 1120mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5g