Romanian Grilled Minced Meat Sausages

Step 1

In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef, 0.5 lb ground pork, 4 minced garlic cloves, 0.5 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp salt. Mix well with your hands.

Step 2

Gradually add 0.25 cup water while kneading the meat mixture for 5 minutes, until it becomes sticky and well combined. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 3

Shape the chilled meat mixture into 8 sausage-shaped logs, about 3 inches long and 1 inch thick. Press firmly to keep them together.

Step 4

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the sausages with 1 tbsp vegetable oil to prevent sticking.

Step 5

Grill the sausages for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through (no pink inside). Serve hot with mustard and bread.

Step 6

If you have them, add 1 tsp thyme or 0.5 tsp caraway seeds to the meat mixture for extra flavor.