POPULAR MEAT AND VEGGIES FOR GRILLING IN MACEDONIA

In Macedonia, as in many places, the choice of meat and vegetables for barbecue largely depends on personal preference. These are just a few examples of the best meat and vegetables for barbecue in Macedonia, but the possibilities are endless! Macedonian cuisine is rich and diverse, and there are countless delicious dishes waiting to be discovered on the grill. Whether you're a meat lover, a vegetarian, or somewhere in between, there's something for everyone to enjoy at a Macedonian barbecue. However, here's a selection of popular options for both:

 Kebapi These small, oblong-shaped minced meat kebabs are not just a staple of Macedonian cuisine but are beloved throughout the Balkans. Made from a mixture of finely minced beef and pork, Kebapi are seasoned with a blend of spices that can vary from region to region. Some common seasonings include paprika, garlic, onion, and parsley. This flavorful mixture is shaped into elongated meatballs and grilled to perfection, resulting in juicy and succulent morsels that are often enjoyed with a side of traditional flatbread (lepinja) and condiments like ajvar and kajmak.

Pleskavica, often dubbed the Balkan burger, is a hearty grilled patty that is a favorite at Macedonian barbecues. Similar to kebapi, pleskavica is made from a mixture of minced meats, typically beef and pork, although variations with lamb or veal are also popular. The meat mixture is seasoned generously with spices such as salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic, then shaped into large, flat patties and grilled over an open flame. Pleskavica is often served sandwiched between two pieces of lepinja bread, accompanied by a variety of toppings and sauces.

Ražnjići - Skewers of marinated meat, known as ražnjići, are a versatile and customizable option for Macedonian barbecues. These skewers can be made with various types of meat, including pork, beef, chicken, or lamb, depending on personal preference. The meat is typically cut into bite-sized pieces and marinated in a mixture of oil, vinegar, garlic, herbs, and spices before being threaded onto skewers and grilled to perfection. Ražnjići are often served alongside grilled vegetables and are a popular choice for celebratory occasions and festive gatherings.

 

Vegetables

Peppers, with their vibrant colors and sweet flavor, are a popular choice for grilling in Macedonia. Red, yellow, and green peppers are often put whole to grill, previously just washed. After baking, the skin is peeled and salt, oil, vinegar are added, garlic and parsley can be added too.

Zucchini, with its mild flavor and tender texture, is well-suited for grilling and is a favorite vegetable at Macedonian barbecues. Zucchini is typically sliced into rounds or lengthwise strips, brushed with olive oil, and seasoned with salt, pepper, and herbs before being grilled until tender and slightly charred. Grilled zucchini pairs beautifully with grilled meats and adds a touch of freshness and lightness to the meal.

Eggplant, with its creamy texture and rich flavor, is a versatile vegetable that shines when grilled. In Macedonia, eggplant is often sliced into thick rounds or lengthwise strips, brushed with olive oil, and seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic before being grilled until soft and caramelized. Grilled eggplant can be enjoyed on its own as a simple side dish or used as a topping for sandwiches, burgers, or salads.