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Balkan-Style Pljeskavica

A Balkan grilled patty made from mixed ground beef and pork, seasoned simply and cooked until the edges char. Serve on a soft roll with onions, ajvar, and sour cream for an authentic taste of Serbia.

Total time
20 min
Servings
2
Calories
485
Protein
42g
Balkan-Style Pljeskavica
casualheartybalkanbeefporkjuicycrispyweeknight

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Combine the ground beef, ground pork, minced onion, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.

  2. Step 2

    Use your hands to mix gently until the meat is just combined—do not overwork it, or the patties will be tough.

  3. Step 3

    Divide the mixture in half and shape each half into a thick, flat patty about 5 inches wide and 1 inch thick.

  4. Step 4

    Heat the olive oil in a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers and slides quickly when you tilt the pan, about 90 seconds.

  5. Step 5

    Place both patties in the hot skillet and cook without moving them for 5 minutes, until the bottom is deeply browned and crispy.

  6. Step 6

    Flip the patties carefully with a metal spatula and cook the second side for 4 minutes, until the inside reaches 160°F when checked with a meat thermometer in the thickest part.

  7. Step 7

    Transfer the patties to a plate and rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Tools you’ll need

  • large mixing bowl
  • 12-inch cast iron skillet
  • metal spatula
  • meat thermometer

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