Bosanski Mesni Uštipci
Savory, bite-sized fritters made with ground meat, onions, and spices, deep-fried to a golden crisp. These are a popular appetizer or snack, offering a flavorful and satisfying taste of Bosnian home cooking.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300 g Ground Beef
- 200 g Ground Pork
- 1 medium Onion(finely grated or minced)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 large Egg
- 50 g Breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- for frying Vegetable Oil
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, grated onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, and pepper.
💡 Tip: Ensure the onion is finely grated to release its moisture and flavor without leaving large chunks. - 2
Mix all ingredients thoroughly with your hands until well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
💡 Tip: Avoid overmixing, which can make the fritters tough. - 3
Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
💡 Tip: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature. - 4
Carefully drop spoonfuls of the meat mixture into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pot; fry in batches.
💡 Tip: Use two spoons to shape the fritters into roughly 1-inch balls or oval shapes. - 5
Fry the uštipci for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. They should float to the surface when done.
💡 Tip: Adjust heat as needed to maintain oil temperature and prevent burning. - 6
Remove the cooked uštipci with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
💡 Tip: Allow them to drain for a minute before transferring to a serving platter. - 7
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately. These are delicious on their own or with a side of yogurt or ajvar.
💡 Tip: Serve hot for the best texture and flavor.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The consistency of the meat mixture is key. If it's too wet, add a few more breadcrumbs. If too dry, add a splash of water or milk.
- ✓Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to get a crispy exterior and prevent the fritters from absorbing too much oil.
- ✓These can be made ahead of time and reheated in an oven or air fryer.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add finely chopped fresh herbs like dill or mint to the meat mixture.
- Incorporate a tablespoon of finely grated cheese (like feta) for a salty kick.
- Serve with a spicy ajvar or a creamy garlic sauce.