There’s a certain magic in the sizzle of sausages on a barbecue, a symphony of flavours that transcends time and space. For me, that magic is encapsulated in the memory of ‘Mici’ or ‘Mititei,’ the traditional Romanian skinless sausages that were the heart and soul of every family gathering and holiday barbecue in my childhood.
A Culinary Journey Down Memory Lane
As a child, the announcement of a barbecue featuring ‘Mici’ was enough to send waves of excitement through our household. The scent of these sizzling sausages would mingle with the laughter of cousins, the chatter of aunts, and the unmistakable feeling of togetherness that defined family gatherings.
‘Mici’ were more than just a dish; they were a culinary rite, a tradition that marked special occasions and transformed ordinary moments into memories. The process of making them was as integral to the experience as the taste itself, with each family having its secret blend of spices passed down through generations.
Jump to Recipe
Traditional Romanian Skinless Sausages (‘Mici’ or ‘Mititei’) – Cevapi
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 500 g ground beef
- 300 g ground pork
- 1 large onion finely grated
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt to taste
- Mineral water as needed
- Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and pork.
- Add the finely grated onion, minced garlic, baking soda, black pepper, sweet paprika, thyme, and salt.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Gradually add mineral water, a little at a time, while continuing to mix. The goal is to achieve a soft, sticky consistency.
- Wet your hands with water and take a small portion of the mixture, shaping it into a cylindrical form.
- Preheat the grill or barbecue.
- Brush the ‘Mici’ with vegetable oil to prevent sticking and place them on the grill.
- Grill the sausages until they are golden brown and cooked through, turning them occasionally for even cooking.
- Serve the ‘Mici’ hot with mustard, fresh bread, and a side of pickles.
A Timeless Tradition on the Grill
As the aroma of sizzling ‘Mici’ fills the air, it carries with it not just the tantalizing scent of perfectly spiced sausages but the essence of family, tradition, and the joyous moments that made childhood so special. Recreate this beloved recipe, and with every bite, savour the taste of nostalgia, the echoes of laughter, and the warmth of family gatherings that stay with us forever.
Whether it’s a holiday barbecue, a Sunday feast, or a casual get-together, let ‘Mici’ be the culinary bridge that connects your present to the cherished memories of your past. Here’s to keeping traditions alive, one delicious sausage at a time. Enjoy the journey down memory lane and the irresistible flavours of ‘Mici’!
