Kebapcheta Recipe from Bulgaria: Delicious Pork Kebabs with Onions, Cumin, and Salt

Kebapcheta I

Kebapcheta Recipe from Bulgaria: Delicious Pork Kebabs with Onions, Cumin, and Salt
Region / culture: Bulgaria | Preparation time: 4 hours | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Kebapcheta I
Kebapcheta I

Kebapcheta is a traditional Bulgarian dish made with seasoned ground meat, typically veal, shaped into oblong rissoles and grilled to perfection. This flavorful dish is a favorite among meat lovers and is often served with a side of salad or bread.

History

Kebapcheta has been a staple in Bulgarian cuisine for centuries, with its origins dating back to the Ottoman Empire. The dish was originally made with lamb or beef, but veal has become a popular choice in modern times. Kebapcheta is often enjoyed at family gatherings, celebrations, and festivals.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Salt the meat and let it stand for 1–2 hours in the refrigerator.
  2. Then mix it with cumin, pepper, finely chopped onions (and some water).
  3. Let it stand for another 2 hours.
  4. Form the mixture into oblong rissoles and grill them.

Variations

  • You can use ground beef or lamb instead of veal for a different flavor.
  • Add chopped parsley or garlic to the meat mixture for extra taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to salt the meat and let it stand in the refrigerator for a few hours to enhance the flavors.

- Adding finely chopped onions and cumin to the meat mixture will give the kebapcheta a delicious aroma and taste.

- Grill the rissoles over medium heat to ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice char on the outside.

Serving Suggestions

Serve kebapcheta with a side of fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or bread. You can also enjoy it with a dollop of yogurt or tzatziki sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Grill the kebapcheta over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have veal, you can use ground beef or lamb as a substitute. You can also use different seasonings such as paprika or chili powder for a spicy kick.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the meat mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to grill the kebapcheta. This will allow the flavors to develop even more.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the kebapcheta on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs or lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Kebapcheta pairs well with a glass of red wine, a cold beer, or a refreshing lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover kebapcheta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 280 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 2g per serving

Fats

Fats: 15g per serving

Proteins

Proteins: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Kebapcheta is a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

Contains: onions

Summary

Kebapcheta is a high-protein dish that is relatively low in carbohydrates. It is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for meat lovers.

Summary

Kebapcheta is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. With its flavorful meat mixture and grilled perfection, it is sure to be a hit at any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a hot summer day and I was visiting a small village in Bulgaria with my family. We were invited to a local family's home for dinner and they served us a delicious dish called Kebapcheta. I had never tasted anything like it before - juicy and flavorful grilled sausages served with a side of fresh vegetables and creamy yogurt sauce.

I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. The family graciously shared their recipe with me, and I have been making it ever since. Over the years, I have perfected the recipe and added my own twist to it. Here is how I learned to make Kebapcheta:

The key to a good Kebapcheta is the quality of the meat. I always use a mixture of ground beef and pork, which gives the sausages a nice balance of flavor and juiciness. I learned this tip from a butcher in the village who told me that the combination of beef and pork is a traditional Bulgarian way of making Kebapcheta.

To make the sausages, I start by mixing the ground beef and pork with finely chopped onions, garlic, and a blend of spices including cumin, paprika, and black pepper. I learned the importance of using fresh ingredients and spices from my grandmother, who always emphasized the importance of cooking with love and care.

After the meat mixture is well combined, I shape it into long, thin sausages and thread them onto skewers. I learned this technique from a local chef who showed me how to grill the sausages over an open flame, giving them a smoky and charred flavor that is irresistible.

While the sausages are grilling, I prepare the side dishes. I always serve Kebapcheta with a simple salad of sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion, dressed with olive oil and red wine vinegar. I also make a creamy yogurt sauce by mixing plain yogurt with finely grated cucumber, garlic, and dill. The cool and tangy sauce is the perfect accompaniment to the hot and spicy sausages.

When the sausages are cooked through and slightly charred on the outside, I serve them hot off the grill with the side dishes. I learned the importance of presentation from a friend who is a professional chef and always garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice.

The first time I made Kebapcheta for my family, they were amazed at how delicious it was. They couldn't believe that I had learned to make such a traditional Bulgarian dish. I smiled and told them that I had learned from the best - the local villagers, the butcher, the chef, and my grandmother.

Since then, Kebapcheta has become a staple in my household. I make it for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and even just for a casual weeknight dinner. It is a dish that brings people together and reminds me of the warm summer day when I first learned to make it.

In conclusion, learning to make Kebapcheta has been a journey of discovery and joy. It has taught me the importance of tradition, quality ingredients, and the love and care that goes into cooking. I am grateful to all the people who have shared their knowledge and expertise with me, and I will continue to pass on this delicious recipe to future generations.

Categories

| Bulgarian Meat Dishes | Bulgarian Recipes | Ground Pork Recipes | Ground Veal Recipes | Slavic Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients