The Art of Balkan Grilling — Everything You Need for the Perfect Roštilj

In the Balkans, grilling isn't a hobby. It's a ritual.

The word roštilj (pronounced rosh-till) simply means grill — but what happens around it is so much more. It's Sunday afternoons with family. It's the smell of cevapcici sizzling over charcoal while someone sets the table with ajvar, fresh onions, and warm lepinja bread. It's the kind of meal that takes all day and somehow still ends too soon.

What you need for a proper roštilj:

The meat — Čevapi are the king. Small, hand-rolled sausages made from minced beef and lamb, seasoned simply with salt and a little baking soda for texture. Pljeskavice (Balkan-style burger patties) come next — wider, flatter, and packed with flavor. We carry both fresh and frozen options at both store locations.

The sides — No roštilj is complete without ajvar. This roasted red pepper spread is the condiment of the Balkans — smoky, slightly sweet, and impossible to stop eating. Pair it with urnebes (spicy cheese spread) and sliced fresh onions.

The bread — Lepinja or somun. Soft, slightly chewy flatbread that soaks up all the juices. Absolutely non-negotiable.

The drinks — Cold Cockta, a Slovenian cola with a cult following. Or go traditional with a shot of rakija to start things off right.

Everything on this list is available at Hamilton Euromarket. Come in, stock up, and fire it up.