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Authentic Pljeskavica: Homemade Serbian-Style Grilled Burger

By Delicious Recipes!Posted on
Authentic Pljeskavica: Homemade Serbian-Style Grilled Burger

Authentic Pljeskavica: Homemade Serbian-Style Grilled Burger

Experience the rich, smoky flavors of traditional Balkan cuisine with this homemade Pljeskavica recipe. Crafted from a seasoned blend of beef (or pork and beef), fresh herbs, and spices, this juicy grilled burger pairs perfectly with homemade ajvar and fresh lepinje buns. While it requires some preparation, the rewarding taste makes every step worthwhile—perfect for weekend grilling and gatherings.

🕒 Prep Time: 20 min + 5 hours chilling

🍳 Cook Time: 10 min
🍽️ Servings: 5

Ingredients

For Pljeskavica Patties:

  • 500 g ground beef (or mix of pork and beef)
  • 1 large garlic clove, crushed
  • 1 small onion (approx. 30 g), finely chopped
  • 1/4 bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 4 tbsp sparkling water
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • Salt to taste

For Serving:

  • 5 lepinje buns (Serbian flatbreads)
  • Homemade or store-bought ajvar (red pepper spread)
  • 1 large red onion, finely chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pljeskavica Mixture

  • Finely chop the onion and parsley; crush the garlic.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, garlic, onion, parsley, pepper, paprika, and salt. Mix well.
  • Gradually add sparkling water and knead the mixture thoroughly for at least 5 minutes to develop a smooth and elastic texture.
  • Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours (ideally 5 hours) to let the flavors meld and the meat firm up.

2. Shape and Grill the Patties

  • Preheat the grill and grease it lightly with a piece of pork fat or oil.
  • Divide the meat mixture into 10 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball.
  • On a clean plastic bag placed on the work surface, wet your hand and place a meatball on the bag. Cover with another plastic bag and press firmly with a flat wooden object or your palm to flatten into a thin patty.
  • Carefully remove the top bag, flip the patty onto your palm, then transfer it to the hot grill. Repeat for all patties to fill the grill.
  • Grill each side for approximately 5 minutes until nicely browned and cooked through.

3. Assemble and Serve

  • Slice the lepinje buns in half and generously spread ajvar on the cut sides.
  • Sprinkle finely chopped red onion over the ajvar.
  • Place two grilled patties on the bun and top with more chopped onion.
  • Optionally, toast the assembled sandwich back on the grill for 1 minute per side to warm through and create a crispy crust on the bread.

💡 Tips

  • Kneading with sparkling water adds lightness and juiciness to the patties.
  • Refrigerating the meat mixture helps flavors develop and makes patties easier to handle.
  • Serve with fresh salads or pickled vegetables for a complete Balkan feast.

🎉 Perfect For

  • Weekend barbecues
  • Authentic Balkan-style dinners
  • Casual get-togethers and family meals

📝 Final Thoughts

This homemade Pljeskavica recipe delivers juicy, flavorful patties bursting with traditional Balkan spices. When paired with fresh ajvar and warm lepinje, it’s an irresistible culinary experience that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. The key is in the preparation and patience—plan ahead and enjoy every bite!