Mici (Mititei)

6 steps. Take it one step at a time.

1. 01

   Combine the ground beef, ground pork, and ground lamb

   In a large chilled mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, and ground lamb. Add the salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and allspice.

2. 02

   Dissolve the bicarbonate of soda

   Dissolve the bicarbonate of soda in 2-3 tablespoons of the cold beef broth. Add this mixture along with the mashed garlic to the meat.

3. 03

   Knead the meat mixture

   Knead the meat mixture by hand for about 10-15 minutes. Gradually add the remaining cold beef broth as you knead. The mixture should become a very sticky, homogenous paste.

   15 min
4. 04

   Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate

   Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 12 to 24 hours. This resting phase is critical for the texture.

   1 day
5. 05

   With wet hands, shape the meat

   With wet hands, shape the meat into cylinders about 3-4 inches (8-10 cm) long and 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick.

6. 06

   Preheat your grill

   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the mici for about 3-4 minutes per side (roughly 12 minutes total), turning them 3 times to ensure even cooking and a nice crust. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). Do not overcook, or they will lose their juiciness.

   15 min