Mititei (Mici) - Romanian Grilled Sausages
Mititei, often called 'Mici', are small, skinless grilled sausages that are a quintessential Romanian street food and barbecue favorite. Made from a flavorful blend of ground meats, garlic, and a unique mix of spices, they are juicy, savory, and incredibly satisfying.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef(preferably with higher fat content)
- 1 lb Ground pork(preferably with higher fat content)
- 0.5 lb Ground lamb(optional, for added flavor)
- 6 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 cup Beef broth(cold, low-sodium)
- 1 tsp Baking soda
- 1 tbsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 1 tsp Dried thyme
- 1 tsp Ground coriander
- 0.5 tsp Ground cumin
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 0.5 tsp Allspice(optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Combine the meats: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, and ground lamb (if using).
💡 Tip: Using meats with a good fat content is crucial for juicy mititei. - 2
Add aromatics and spices: Add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, ground coriander, ground cumin, paprika, and allspice (if using) to the meat mixture. Mix well by hand or with a stand mixer.
- 3
Incorporate liquid and baking soda: Dissolve the baking soda in the cold beef broth. Gradually add the broth mixture to the meat, mixing thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly sticky, resembling a paste. Ensure there are no air bubbles by pressing the mixture down in the bowl.
💡 Tip: The amount of broth may vary slightly; add just enough to achieve the right consistency. - 4
Marinate: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and develop.
- 5
Shape the mititei: On a lightly floured surface or with wet hands, form the meat mixture into small, cylindrical shapes, about 2-3 inches long and 1 inch thick.
- 6
Grill: Preheat a charcoal grill to medium-high heat. Grill the mititei for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through. Be mindful of flare-ups from the dripping fat.
💡 Tip: A charcoal grill imparts the best smoky flavor. Avoid overcooking to keep them juicy. - 7
Serve: Serve the mititei immediately, hot off the grill, with a side of mustard and crusty bread.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The overnight marination is crucial for the authentic flavor.
- ✓If grilling isn't possible, mititei can be pan-fried or baked, though the texture and flavor will differ.
- ✓Some recipes call for a small amount of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) to help with texture and color.
🔄 Variations
- Some variations include a small amount of finely chopped onion in the mixture.
- Experiment with different spice combinations, such as adding a pinch of caraway or marjoram.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small amount of harissa paste.