Transport your taste buds straight to the Balkans with this authentic Croatian BBQ Burger, Pljeskavica! This hearty and flavorful grilled delight combines a trio of ground meats—beef, pork, and lamb—infused with garlic, smoked paprika, and a touch of cayenne for a smoky-spiced kick. The patties are thin yet juicy, grilled to perfection, and served on warm flatbreads or buns with a generous dollop of ajvar, a tangy-sweet red pepper spread that perfectly complements the meat’s robust flavors. Topped with freshly chopped onions for a crisp finish, this traditional Balkan recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for your next barbecue or casual dinner. It's a must-try for anyone seeking a unique twist on the classic burger!
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, and ground lamb.
Add the minced garlic, sweet paprika, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix thoroughly with your hands until the spices are evenly distributed.
Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into large, thin patties, about 1 cm thick.
Cover the patties with plastic wrap and let them rest in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to firm up.
Preheat a grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface using the vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
Grill the patties for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they are well-browned and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 70°C (160°F).
While the patties are grilling, warm the flatbreads or buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes until soft and slightly charred.
To assemble, place each patty on a flatbread or bun. Top with a generous spoonful of ajvar and a handful of chopped onions.
Serve immediately with additional flatbread, ajvar, or your favorite side dishes like fries or cucumber salad.
Calories |
2457 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 144.2 g | 185% | |
| Saturated Fat | 49.7 g | 249% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 9.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 488 mg | 163% | |
| Sodium | 4682 mg | 204% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 149.5 g | 54% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.8 g | 56% | |
| Total Sugars | 16.3 g | ||
| Protein | 151.4 g | 303% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 265 mg | 20% | |
| Iron | 17.0 mg | 94% | |
| Potassium | 1839 mg | 39% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.