Mititei
The Quirky Foodster Team
Ingredients
- Minced beef — 500 g (1 lb 2 oz)
- Minced pork — 300 g (10.5 oz)
- Garlic, minced — 5 cloves
- Baking soda — 1 tsp
- Ground cumin — 1 tsp
- Paprika — 1 tsp
- Ground black pepper — 1/2 tsp
- Beef stock or water — 1/2 cup (120 ml / 4 fl oz)
- Salt — to taste
- Oil, for shaping and grilling
Method
- Combine the minced beef and pork, garlic, baking soda, cumin, paprika, pepper and salt in a large bowl.
- Gradually mix in the stock or water, kneading the mixture thoroughly for several minutes until sticky and well combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to let the flavours develop.
- With oiled hands, shape the mixture into small, finger-length rolls.
- Grill over hot charcoal (or a hot grill pan), turning occasionally, for 8–10 minutes until browned outside and cooked through.
- Serve hot, traditionally with mustard and fresh bread.
Introduction: Small, garlicky grilled meat rolls made from a mix of beef and pork, cooked over an open flame — a favourite at Moldovan gatherings.
Cultural Background: Mititei (‘little ones’) are a beloved grilled dish found throughout Moldova and the wider region, traditionally cooked outdoors over charcoal at family gatherings, festivals and casual weekend meals.
Tips: Kneading the mixture thoroughly develops the right sticky texture that helps the mititei hold together on the grill. Resting the mixture in the refrigerator before shaping allows the flavours to meld properly.
Variations: Adjust the beef-to-pork ratio to taste, or use all beef for a leaner version. Serve with a side of pickles and mustard, the classic accompaniment.
Storage: Refrigerate cooked mititei in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a hot dry pan for 2–3 minutes per side, or briefly under a hot grill.
Nutrition: Per serving (approx., 4 pieces): 320 kcal, 24 g protein, 20 g fat, 4 g carbohydrate.
FAQs:
Q: Why does the mixture include baking soda?
A: It helps tenderise the meat and gives mititei their
Q: Can mititei be made without a grill?
A: Yes, they can be pan-fried or cooked under a hot broiler,
- Minced beef — 500 g (1 lb 2 oz)
- Minced pork — 300 g (10.5 oz)
- Garlic, minced — 5 cloves
- Baking soda — 1 tsp
- Ground cumin — 1 tsp
- Paprika — 1 tsp
- Ground black pepper — 1/2 tsp
- Beef stock or water — 1/2 cup (120 ml / 4 fl oz)
- Salt — to taste
- Oil, for shaping and grilling
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