Homemade sausages

Homemade Mititei - Grill Delight

Mititei, or 'mici' as they are known in some corners of the world, are that savory delicacy that brings us together around the grill, evoking pleasant memories and unforgettable moments. This homemade mititei recipe is a perfect combination of juicy meat, aromatic spices, and a dash of passion, delivering an authentic taste, just like at home. Whether you're preparing them for a gathering with friends or a family dinner, these mititei guarantee culinary success.

Total preparation time: 3 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rest time: 2 hours
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 10

Ingredients for 3 kg of mititei:
- 250 g beef (choose quality meat, preferably from the leg)
- 500 g pork (pork adds juiciness and flavor)
- 40 g baking soda (helps tenderize the meat)
- 10 g thyme (an excellent choice for a subtle taste)
- 100 g garlic (for an unmistakable aroma)
- 10 g hot pepper (optional, for a touch of spice)
- Ground pepper and salt, to taste (don’t forget to adjust according to preferences)
- 100 ml sparkling water (to maintain moisture)

Preparation:
1. Preparing the meat: Start by cleaning the meat of any membranes and washing it well. Cut it into small pieces so that it can easily pass through the meat grinder. I recommend using fresh meat, as the quality of the ingredients will drastically influence the final taste of the mititei.

2. Grinding the meat: Use a meat grinder with a medium-sized disc. You can mix the beef with the pork to achieve a perfect combination of textures and flavors. This step is essential, so don’t rush.

3. Mixing the spices: In a large bowl, add the ground meat and mix in the baking soda, salt, pepper, thyme, and crushed garlic (use a garlic press to achieve a fine paste). If you like spicy dishes, now is the time to add the finely chopped hot pepper.

4. Hydrating the mixture: Start gradually adding the sparkling water, mixing well with your hands or a spatula until the mixture becomes homogeneous. This step is crucial for achieving juicy mititei, so don’t hesitate to put in some effort here.

5. Resting the mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for 2 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to develop and the baking soda to act, making the meat more tender.

6. Shaping the mititei: After the two hours, take the mixture out of the refrigerator. Wet your hands with water to prevent the mixture from sticking. Shape the mititei into approximately 8-10 cm long and 3 cm thick pieces. Make sure they have a uniform shape for even cooking.

7. Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the mititei on the grill and let them cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, turning them carefully. Ideally, you want to achieve a nicely browned crust that will keep the meat juicy inside.

Serving:
Serve the mititei warm, alongside a generous portion of mustard and fresh bread. You can also add a summer salad or pickles for a delicious contrast. A cold beer or a dry white wine are perfect accompaniments for this dish.

Useful tips:
- Meat variations: You can experiment with other types of meat, such as lamb or turkey, for different flavors.
- Spices: If you want a more exotic note, add spices like coriander or cumin for a more complex flavor.
- Mititei in a pan: If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook them in a non-stick pan with a little oil over medium heat.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I freeze the mititei? Yes, you can prepare a larger batch and freeze them. Make sure to place them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
- How do I know when they are done? The mititei are done when they turn golden and juicy, and the juices running from them are clear.

Nutritional benefits:
Mititei are a good source of protein due to the meat, and the addition of garlic provides a boost of antioxidants and health-beneficial compounds. However, consume them in moderation, considering the fat content from the pork.

Now that you have all the information you need, all that’s left is to start cooking! Get ready to impress your family and friends with an unforgettable culinary experience. Every bite will bring a smile to their faces, and you will be the hero of the evening! Enjoy your meal!