Experience the rich and savory flavors of the Balkans with this Low Fat Authentic Balkan Cevapi recipe, a healthier twist on the traditional grilled delicacy. Made with lean ground turkey, aromatic garlic, onion, and a blend of simple yet bold seasonings like paprika and fresh parsley, this recipe delivers all the authenticity without the extra fat. The mixture is shaped into small sausage-like pieces, chilled for optimal flavor infusion, and grilled to perfection, creating juicy, flavorful bites with a golden crust. Ready in just 30 minutes (plus marinating time), these Cevapi are perfect for a quick, wholesome meal. Serve with warm flatbread, sliced onions, and a dollop of ajvar or yogurt sauce for an unforgettable Balkan-inspired feast. Ideal for those seeking a lighter, high-protein recipe without sacrificing traditional taste.
Begin by finely mincing the garlic cloves and onion, ensuring there are no large pieces that could affect the texture of the Cevapi.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, minced garlic, minced onion, paprika, baking soda, finely chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper.
Add the olive oil and water to the mixture to keep the meat moist and help bind the ingredients together.
Using your hands, mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined. This should take about 5 minutes of mixing.
Once combined, shape the mixture into small cylinder-shaped pieces, each about 3 inches long and 1 inch thick, resembling small sausages.
Cover the Cevapi with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Preheat your grill or grilling pan to medium-high heat. Brush a little olive oil over the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Grill the Cevapi for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are cooked through and have a nice brown crust.
Remove from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
Serve the Cevapi hot, traditionally with freshly baked flatbread, sliced onions, and a side of ajvar or yogurt sauce.
Calories |
932 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 50.4 g | 65% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.5 g | 68% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 355 mg | 118% | |
| Sodium | 3358 mg | 146% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 20.7 g | 8% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.7 g | 13% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.4 g | ||
| Protein | 97.5 g | 195% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 71 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 6.6 mg | 37% | |
| Potassium | 415 mg | 9% | |
*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.