Pljeskavica

Pljeskavica

Пљескавица (PLYES-kah-vee-tsah)

Serbian Burger Patty

Prep Time 20 min
📈 Difficulty Easy
👥 Servings
4
🔥 Calories 508 kcal

A massive, juicy spiced meat patty of mixed beef and lamb, char-grilled and served in warm lepinja bread with kajmak, onions, and ajvar.

Nutrition & Info

520 kcal per serving
Protein 36.0g
Carbs 28.0g
Fat 28.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

dairy-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ gluten ⚠ dairy

Equipment Needed

charcoal grill or grill pan mixing bowl spatula

Presentation Guide

Vessel: wooden board

Garnishes: raw onion rings, ajvar, kajmak

Accompaniments: lepinja bread, urnebes salad

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine beef, lamb, grated onion, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, baking soda, and sparkling water. Mix well.

  2. 2

    Refrigerate mixture for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.

  3. 3

    Shape into 4 large, flat patties about 1.5 cm thick and wider than the bread.

  4. 4

    Grill over high heat for 4-5 minutes per side until charred outside and juicy within.

  5. 5

    Serve in warm lepinja bread topped with kajmak, ajvar, and diced raw onions.

💡

Did You Know?

The town of Leskovac holds an annual Rostiljijada (barbecue festival) where a record-breaking pljeskavica weighed over 60 kg.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • charcoal grill or grill pan
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula

Garnishing

raw onion rings, ajvar, kajmak

Accompaniments

lepinja bread, urnebes salad

The Story Behind Pljeskavica

Pljeskavica evolved in 19th-century Serbian towns as a local answer to grilled meat culture. Leskovac in southern Serbia became its spiritual home, perfecting the blend of meats and the open-flame technique that gives it its distinctive smoky crust.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed lunch or dinner, year-round 📜 Origins: 19th century

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