Adapted from Yiddish Cuisine, by Robert Sternberg

Sternberg writes: Karnotzl is a spicy Romanian ground meat sausage grilled on the outdoor grill.  It is eaten traditionally with mamaliga and an assortment of Romanian salads. Karnotzlach are a perfect summertime dish and a delicious alternative to the usual American grilled hamburger patties.

Meat Mixture

2 lb. lean ground beef
2 large cloves garlic, peeled and finely chopped
1/3 cup beef stock
2 tablespoons light vegetable oil

Seasoning Mixture One

1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 tsp. ground cloves
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ground pepper

Seasoning Mixture Two

1 small onion, peeled and Žnely grated by hand or in the food processor
1 teaspoon hot Hungarian paprika
1 teaspoon salt
Dash of freshly-ground pepper


1) Combine all the ingredients in a medium mixing bowl, choosing either Seasoning Mixture One or Seasoning Mixture Two.

2) Have a bowl of cold water nearby as you shape the karnotzl.  Moisten your hands and shape a small amount of meat into a cylinder about 3 inches long and 1 inch wide.  Repeat until all the meat is shaped.

3) Preheat the outdoor grill or the oven broiler.  Grill on the outdoor grill or on the broiler rack 3 inches from the heat source for about 10 to 15 minutes, turning several times to ensure even browning.  The karnotzl are done when crisp and brown on all sides.

4) Serve immediately.

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