Albanian Recipes: A Culinary Journey Through Tradition

Albanian cuisine is a delightful blend of Mediterranean and Balkan influences, offering a variety of flavors that are both unique and delicious. Albanian recipes offer a taste of the country’s rich culinary heritage. From savory pies to hearty lamb dishes, these traditional recipes are sure to delight your taste buds. Try these authentic Albanian recipes and bring the flavors of Albania to your kitchen today. Here are some traditional Albanian recipes that you can easily prepare at home.

Byrek (Albanian Spinach Pie)

Byrek is a popular Albanian dish made with layers of flaky pastry filled with spinach, feta cheese, and herbs. It’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 package of phyllo dough
• 500g spinach, chopped
• 200g feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large bowl, mix the spinach, feta cheese, onion, eggs, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Layer the phyllo dough in a greased baking dish, brushing each layer with olive oil.
4. Spread the spinach mixture evenly over the phyllo layers.
5. Cover with more layers of phyllo dough, brushing each layer with olive oil.
6. Bake for 45 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Tave Kosi (Baked Lamb with Yogurt)

Tave Kosi is a traditional Albanian dish made with tender lamb baked in a creamy yogurt sauce. It’s a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for family gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1kg lamb, cut into pieces
• 2 cups plain yogurt
• 4 eggs
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large pan, melt the butter and sauté the onion until soft.
3. Add the lamb pieces and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Transfer the lamb to a baking dish.
5. In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour the yogurt mixture over the lamb.
7. Bake for 1 hour or until the top is golden brown and the lamb is tender.
8. Serve hot with a side of rice or bread.

Fërgesë (Peppers with Cheese and Tomatoes)

Fërgesë is a traditional Albanian dish made with roasted peppers, tomatoes, and cheese. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect as a side or a main course.

Ingredients:

• 4 bell peppers, roasted and chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 200g feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large pan, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
3. Add the roasted peppers and tomatoes, and cook for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the feta cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
6. Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot with crusty bread.