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    Home / Balkan Kitchen / Pljeskavica

    Pljeskavica

    Pljeskavica is the Balkan answer to the burger — a big, juicy patty of seasoned minced meat, grilled until charred outside and blush-pink inside.

    ⏱ 25 minPrep time
    🔥 15 minCook time
    🍽 4Servings
    🏷 Balkan KitchenCategory
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    Pljeskavica

    Pljeskavica is the Balkan answer to the burger — a big, juicy patty of seasoned minced meat, grilled until charred outside and blush-pink inside. It is simple, bold, and gloriously messy.

    Usually served in a flatbread with onion, ajvar, and kajmak, pljeskavica stars at every family grill session. Size and spice vary from one region to the next, but enthusiasm never does.

    Balkan recipes →

    Step by stepInstructions

    1. Combine the beef, pork, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and sparkling water; mix gently.
    2. Refrigerate 30 minutes, then divide into 4 large oval patties, about 1 inch thick.
    3. Grill over high heat for 4-5 minutes per side for medium, pressing down gently once.
    4. Rest 5 minutes, then serve in flatbread with onion and ajvar.

    💡 Chef tips & storage

    Don't press down on the patty while grilling — that squeezes out the juices. The sparkling water keeps the meat tender and light.

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    Recipe details

    Prep25 min
    Cook15 min
    Servings4
    CategoryBalkan Kitchen
    PublishedAugust 17, 2026
    Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes

    Hi, I'm Emily 🧡

    Hi, I'm Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes. Simple, tested comfort food for real weeknights, written down the way grandma would. Pull up a chair. More about me →

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