Mititei Moldovenești
Moldovan 'mititei' (plural of 'mititel') are small, grilled skinless sausages, typically made from a mixture of ground meats seasoned with garlic, thyme, and other spices. They are a popular dish, often enjoyed at outdoor gatherings and celebrations.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Ground beef
- 500 g Ground pork
- 6 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 medium Onion(finely grated or pureed)
- 2 tsp Dried thyme
- 1 tsp Ground coriander
- 1 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 1.5 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Baking soda(optional, for tenderness)
- 100 ml Cold water or beef broth(for binding)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Mix well.
💡 Tip: Using a mix of beef and pork provides a good balance of flavor and fat. - 2
Add the minced garlic, grated onion, thyme, coriander, black pepper, and salt to the meat mixture. If using, add the baking soda.
💡 Tip: Ensure the onion is very finely grated or pureed to avoid large pieces in the final product. - 3
Mix all ingredients thoroughly by hand. The mixture should become sticky and cohesive.
- 4
Gradually add the cold water or beef broth, mixing continuously until the meat mixture is well-bound and has a slightly softer consistency.
💡 Tip: The liquid helps create a juicier, more tender mititei. - 5
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2-3 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
💡 Tip: Chilling is essential for the flavors to develop and for the mixture to firm up. - 6
Shape the meat mixture into small, cylindrical sausages (about 8-10 cm long and 2-3 cm thick). Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.
💡 Tip: Aim for uniform size for even cooking. - 7
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates.
💡 Tip: A hot grill is key for achieving good char marks. - 8
Grill the mititei, turning them regularly, until they are cooked through and nicely browned on all sides, about 10-15 minutes.
💡 Tip: Avoid overcooking, as they can become dry. - 9
Serve hot, typically with mustard and a side of mămăligă or fresh bread.
💡 Tip: Mustard is a classic accompaniment.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- ✓If you don't have a grill, you can pan-fry the mititei in a little oil over medium-high heat.
- ✓The quality of the meat is crucial for the final taste.
🔄 Variations
- Add a tablespoon of paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Incorporate a finely chopped fresh chili pepper for extra heat.