Celebrate your May 1st in Romania: discover best mici in Bucharest

May 1st, known as “May Day” or “International Workers’ Day,” has historical significance as a day to celebrate workers’ rights and labor movements worldwide. In Romania, May 1st has been a significant day for various reasons throughout history.

During the communist era in Romania, May 1st was a major holiday celebrated with parades, speeches, and other festivities, often glorifying the achievements of the working class and the Communist Party. Since the fall of communism in 1989, the way May 1st is celebrated in Romania has evolved.

Today, May 1st is still celebrated as a public holiday in Romania, but the focus has shifted. It’s now more about leisure, relaxation, and enjoying time with friends and family. Many Romanians take advantage of the holiday to have picnics, barbecues, or parties in parks or countryside areas. It’s a time for people to unwind and enjoy the beginning of spring.

Traditional food on May 1st: mici or mititei

“Mici,” also known as “mititei,” are a beloved dish in Romanian cuisine, and they hold a special place in Romanian food culture, but also in the Balkans, several variations being available mostly in Bulgaria, Turkey, Serbia.

Mici are essentially small, cylindrical-shaped grilled sausages, typically made from a mixture of ground meat, usually beef, pork, or a combination of both, mixed with spices and herbs. The exact blend of spices varies depending on personal preferences and regional traditions, but common ingredients include garlic, paprika, black pepper, thyme, coriander, and sometimes a touch of baking soda or bicarbonate of soda to add tenderness.

The preparation of mici involves mixing the ground meat with the spices and herbs, then shaping the mixture into small sausage-like shapes. Unlike traditional sausages, mici are not encased in casings; instead, they are formed directly by hand. Once shaped, they are typically grilled or barbecued over an open flame, giving them a deliciously smoky flavor and a slightly crispy exterior while remaining juicy and tender inside. Mici are typically served hot off the grill and are often accompanied by traditional side dishes such as mustard, fresh bread or pita, pickles, and sometimes fries.

Mici are integrated in the Romanian culinary culture and are a staple at various social gatherings, from family barbecues to street food festivals. They are often enjoyed during holidays, celebrations, and outdoor events, making them a symbol of conviviality and togetherness. In many ways, mici encapsulate the spirit of Romanian hospitality, as they are frequently shared among friends and loved ones.