Balkan-Style Burger: How to Make Pljeskavica & Lepinja | Serbian Street Food Recipe

Introduction

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Today, I’m making a Balkan-style burger with traditional flatbread! This dish has a long history in the Balkans and is packed with flavor. Pljeskavica is a flavorful meat patty, and Lepinja is a soft, chewy flatbread—together, they create the famous Serbian burger.

A Brief History

Pljeskavica dates back centuries in the Balkans and has been influenced by Ottoman cuisine. Over time, it became a popular Serbian street food, loved for its smoky grilled flavor and juicy texture.

What You’ll Learn from This Recipe

• How to make authentic Serbian Lepinja flatbread

• How to prepare a juicy and flavorful Pljeskavica patty

• Tips for achieving the perfect texture and smoky taste

Ingredients

For Lepinja (Makes 3 / 12cm Diameter)

• Bread flour (or all-purpose flour) – 300g

• Dry yeast – 4g (about 1 tsp)

• Sugar – ¾ tsp (to help fermentation)

• Salt – ¾ tsp

• Lukewarm water (about 40°C) – 180ml

For Gurmanska Pljeskavica (Serves 2-3)

Patty Ingredients

• Ground beef (or beef & pork mix) – 500g

• Garlic (grated) – 1 clove

• Onion (finely chopped) – ½ piece

• Salt – 1 tsp

• Black pepper – ½ tsp

• Sweet paprika powder – 1 tsp

• Cumin powder – ½ tsp (optional)

• Carbonated water – 1 tbsp (for tenderness)

• Breadcrumbs (or finely crumbled bread) – 2 tbsp

• Egg – 1

Filling Ingredients (Optional)

• Cheese (Mozzarella, Feta, or Kačkavalj) – 50-70g (cubed or torn into small pieces)

• Ham (chopped) – 2-4 slices (optional)

Optional Sides & Toppings

• Lepinja (Serbian bread) or burger buns

• Sliced onions

• Ajvar (roasted red pepper spread)

• Yogurt sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a bowl, mix lukewarm water (180ml), sugar (¾ tsp), and dry yeast (4g).

2. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the surface becomes foamy (this ensures the yeast is activated and helps the dough rise smoothly).

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a separate bowl, combine flour (300g) and salt (¾ tsp).

2. Gradually add the yeast mixture while kneading by hand (about 10 minutes).

3. If the dough is slightly elastic and smooth, place it in a bowl and cover with a damp cloth.

4. Let it rise at room temperature for 1–2 hours until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Shape & Second Rise

1. Divide the dough into 3 equal portions and shape each into a flat 12cm disc.

2. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

3. Cover with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes (they will puff up slightly).

Step 4: Bake at High Temperature

1. Preheat the oven to 250–270°C (to mimic a traditional stone oven).

2. Preheat the baking tray as well for a crispier bottom.

3. Bake for 8–10 minutes until the surface cracks slightly and they puff up.

Step 5: Finish & Slice

1. Once baked, cover them with a damp cloth for 5–10 minutes to keep the inside moist.

2. When cooled, slice them in half horizontally to make space for the Pljeskavica patty.

Step 6: Preparing the Meat

1. In a bowl, combine ground meat, garlic, onion, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cumin.

2. Add carbonated water, breadcrumbs, and egg, then knead well until sticky.

3. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour to enhance flavor.

Step 7: Shaping the Patty

1. Divide the meat mixture into three portions, then split each into two thin patties.

2. Place cheese and ham on one patty, cover with the other, and press lightly to seal.

Step 8: Cooking the Patty

You can cook the Pljeskavica in different ways:

• Grill (charcoal or gas) – High heat, 4-5 minutes per side.

• Frying pan (medium heat) – Use a little oil and cook for 5 minutes per side.

• Oven (200°C / 390°F) – Bake for 15 minutes, then broil on high heat for 2 minutes to crisp the surface.

Step 9: Assemble the Burger

1. Toast the cut sides of the Lepinja on a grill pan.

2. Spread Dijon mustard and ketchup inside.

3. Place the grilled Pljeskavica patty inside.

4. Optionally, add some sliced onions, Ajvar, or yogurt sauce.

Tips & Tricks

✔ Activating the yeast first ensures stable fermentation and a fluffy texture!

✔ 12cm diameter & 3 pieces → Perfect fit for Pljeskavica!

✔ Carbonated water makes the patty extra soft and juicy.

✔ Grilling over charcoal adds a smoky flavor, making it taste even more authentic!

✔ Choose melty cheese like Mozzarella or Kačkavalj for a better texture.

Watch the Full Recipe on YouTube!

For a step-by-step video tutorial, check out my YouTube channel:

Let me know if you tried this recipe! Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more delicious recipes.