Cevapi Sausages

Story behind the dish

There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about savoring a juicy, flavorful sausage grilled to perfection. Cevapi—tiny, hand-formed sausages from the Balkans—embody this comfort and celebration all in one bite. Whether enjoyed at a lively outdoor gathering or as a special treat on a weekend afternoon, cevapi bring people together with their smoky aroma and savory richness.

Crafting cevapi at home allows you to bring a taste of Balkan street food into your own kitchen. The magic lies in the blend of seasoned meats, fresh herbs, and tender grilling, which transforms simple ingredients into something truly memorable. Prepare to indulge in a dish that’s both hearty and full of global charm!

Ingredients

• 1 lb (16 oz) minced beef
• ½ lb (8 oz) minced pork
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, grated
• 3 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder
• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
• 3 tablespoons water
• 1 vegetable stock cube, crumbled
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper

Step-by-step

1. Place the ground beef and pork in a large mixing bowl. Finely chop the onion and grate the garlic cloves, then add them to the bowl.
2. Stir in the chopped parsley, paprika, baking powder, dried breadcrumbs, water, crumbled vegetable stock cube, salt, and pepper.
3. Using a hand mixer fitted with dough hooks, mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the mixture rest in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. After chilling, take about ¼ cup (50-55 g) of the meat mixture and shape it into small sausage links, about as thick as your thumb and 3 to 4 inches long. You should get roughly 18 sausages.
6. Preheat your grill or barbecue to high heat. Cook the cevapi for about 12 to 14 minutes, turning them several times. They should be browned and cooked through — check by slicing into one to ensure it’s no longer pink inside.
7. Serve the cevapi hot, perhaps with crusty bread, fresh salads, or traditional condiments. They can also be reheated in a 350°F (180°C) oven for around 10 minutes if made in advance.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For an extra smoky flavor, brush the cevapi with a little oil and grill over charcoal or wood.
• Serve with flatbread, chopped onions, kajmak (Bosnian cream cheese), or a tangy yogurt sauce for an authentic experience.

Closing thoughts

Homemade cevapi are a delightful way to bring Balkan flavors to your table. Their smoky aroma, juicy texture, and the satisfaction of making them yourself make every bite a moment to cherish. Whether you're hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, these sausages promise comfort and a bit of culinary adventure—unwrap the magic of Balkan street food at home!