Ćevapi with Fries, Ajvar & Onions
⏱️ Prep Time: 25 minutes • 🍳 Cook Time: 20 minutes
While cruising the Adriatic on a boat tour to the Blue Lagoon in Split, I had a plate of food that immediately shot to the top of my favorites list. Juicy little grilled sausages, a mountain of golden fries, sweet chopped onions, and a smoky red dip I’d never had before — all served up simply, and eaten in the sun with the sea breeze on my face. This recipe is my take on that unforgettable meal, bringing a taste of Croatia to your own kitchen.
Grilled ćevapi, golden fries, onions, and smoky ajvar, just like the plate I had on a boat ride to Croatia’s Blue Lagoon.
There’s something magical about the way ćevapi are served — no fuss, no fancy garnishes, just rustic food that delivers huge flavor. These little grilled sausages are super simple to make, and packed with garlic, paprika, and just the right amount of smokiness. I use sparkling water and a touch of baking soda to keep them extra tender and juicy, just like the ones I had dockside.
Let’s talk about the dip — it’s called ajvar, and it’s the real MVP on the plate. Made with roasted red peppers, eggplant, garlic, and olive oil, it’s smoky, tangy, and totally addictive. I love scooping it up with fries or piling it on top of the ćevapi. And of course, the chopped white onion adds a fresh, crunchy contrast that ties it all together. It’s the kind of meal that’s messy in the best way — no knife needed, just grab, dip, and devour.
🍽️ Servings: 4 • 🔥 Calories/Serving: 610
Ingredients
For the Ćevapi:
1 lb ground beef (80/20 works best)
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp onion powder
2 tbsp sparkling water
For the Ajvar:
2 red bell peppers
½ medium eggplant
1 clove garlic
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp red wine vinegar
Salt, to taste
Sides:
2 cups frozen French fries
½ white onion, finely diced
Lettuce leaves, optional for serving
Steps
Step 1
In a bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, baking soda, and sparkling water. Mix with your hands until well combined but not overworked.
Step 2
Roll the meat mixture into short, thick sausage shapes about 3 inches long. Place on a plate and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
Step 3
While the ćevapi chill, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast the red bell peppers and eggplant on a baking sheet until soft and charred — about 20 minutes. Let cool slightly.
Step 4
Peel the peppers and scoop out the eggplant flesh. Blend with garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Taste and adjust salt or vinegar.
Step 5
Bake or fry the French fries according to package directions. Sprinkle with salt and parsley if you’d like.
Step 6
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the ćevapi for 3–4 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through.
Step 7
Serve everything on a plate: pile of fries, dollop of ajvar, handful of diced onion, lettuce leaf, and the grilled ćevapi.
Make it your own!
🔥 Make it spicy
Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the ćevapi mix or ajvar for a kick.
🌱 Go herbaceous
Mix fresh parsley or mint into the meat for a brighter Balkan twist.
🍞 Serve it in somun
Grab some warm flatbread and stuff it with ćevapi, onions, and ajvar for a classic street-food experience.
🍆 Buy the ajvar
If you're short on time, look for jarred ajvar in the international aisle — it’s often labeled “roasted red pepper spread.”
Try it with…
Did you make this recipe?
Did you add a unique twist? Did your family enjoy it? Share your thoughts and any customizations you made in the comments below.
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