A quick lunch

The Joy of a Quick Lunch: Grilled Pork Mititei

There are moments when we crave something simple yet full of flavor, something that reminds us of sunny days and time spent with loved ones. Today, I will share a recipe for grilled pork mititei, perfect for a quick lunch. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers a savory taste that will delight any palate. Let's embark on this culinary journey!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g mititei mixture (can be store-bought or homemade)
- 500 g pork (preferably tenderized shoulder)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Ketchup and hot mustard for serving

The History of Mititei

Mititei, or mici as they are often called, have a rich history, deeply rooted in culinary traditions. These delicious meat rolls were originally made from lamb, but have evolved into various recipes, now including pork or beef. The use of spices like cumin and garlic brings these delights to life, adding a convivial atmosphere to any meal.

Preparing Mititei

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the mititei mixture is at room temperature before you begin shaping. If you have store-bought mititei mixture, check the ingredients – a high-quality mixture will make a difference in taste.

Step 2: Shape the Mititei
Wet your hands with a little water to prevent the mixture from sticking. Take a portion of the mititei mixture (about a handful) and shape it into a cylinder, ensuring it’s not too thick. Ideally, the mititei should be about 10 cm long and 2-3 cm wide. Continue shaping until all the mixture is used up.

Step 3: Prepare the Pork
Meanwhile, prepare the pork. Lightly pound the slices with a meat mallet to make them more tender. Season each piece with salt and pepper, ensuring it is evenly coated.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill
While you are working on the mititei and pork, preheat the grill to medium heat. It’s important for the grill to be well-heated to achieve a delicious crust on the outside while keeping the juiciness inside.

Step 5: Grill the Mititei
Once the grill is ready, place the mititei on it. It is recommended to place them on the side with more cracks to allow the oil to drain and prevent sticking. Grill the mititei for 10 minutes on one side, then carefully turn them over. Grill the other side for another 10 minutes until they are golden and crispy.

Step 6: Grill the Pork
After turning the mititei, place the pork slices on the grill. They will need about 7-8 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the slices. Check to ensure they are well-cooked but remain juicy.

Step 7: Serve
Once the mititei and pork are cooked, place them on a platter and serve warm. You can add ketchup and hot mustard on the side for an extra flavor boost. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or a serving of fries for a complete lunch.

Helpful Tips:
- If you want to personalize the recipe, you can add herbs to the mititei mixture, such as oregano or chopped parsley, for a fresher taste.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the mititei and pork on the grill to avoid steaming. The distance between them allows for even cooking.
- A delicious variation would be to add a few slices of cheese on the pork a few minutes before removing it from the grill for a creamy flavor.

Nutritional Benefits:
Mititei are an excellent source of protein, and pork provides B vitamins, essential for energy metabolism. However, being a recipe with a higher fat content, it’s best to consume it in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use beef instead of pork?
Yes, you can substitute pork with beef for a different variation, but make sure to season it well.
2. How can I store mititei to consume later?
You can keep uncooked mititei in the fridge for 1-2 days or freeze them, and when you want to cook them, just take them out an hour before to thaw at room temperature.

The grilled pork mititei recipe is ideal for a quick lunch but also for an outdoor dinner. Whether you choose to enjoy them with ketchup and mustard or serve them alongside a cold beer, this recipe will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. So gather your friends or family and enjoy the delights of this simple and quick recipe!