Mici

Ingredients

• 400 g ground beef
• 300 g ground porkSubstitute: ground lamb
• 6 cloves garlic
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tbsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp thyme
• 100 ml beef brothSubstitute: meat stock

Instructions

1. 1

   Mix ground beef and pork with minced garlic, paprika, cumin, thyme, black pepper, baking soda, and salt.

2. 2

   Add beef broth gradually while mixing to keep the meat moist and pliable.

3. 3

   Knead the mixture vigorously for 5 minutes — the baking soda helps create the characteristic springy texture.

4. 4

   Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours) for flavors to develop.

5. 5

   Shape into finger-sized rolls, about 8cm long and 2cm thick, with wet hands.

6. 6

   Grill over very hot charcoal, turning frequently, until charred on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.

7. 7

   Serve immediately with yellow mustard, fresh bread, and cold beer — the traditional Romanian summer combination.