Traditional Albanian food
Albanian cuisine has always been very influenced by nearby culinary cultures, so much so that it is often considered as a mix of Mediterranean, Balkan and Ottoman cuisine.
Be that as it may, the real identity crisis of Albanian gastronomy came after the communist era, during the years of transition. Globalization, including mass emigration and chaotic industrialization of the food sector, currently represents the greatest challenge of Albanian cuisine.
Albania is recreating its cuisine in a modern form but based on ancient traditions, rediscovering the roots of cooking again, revitalizing them, and relying on the local product. In Albania there are chefs who are working following this philosophy, but this community is too small.
We want to offer you the list of the five dishes you absolutely must try during a stay in Albania. After all, we also chose a typical Albanian dessert.
Fërgesë
This simple dish ends up being one of the favorite dishes for the lunch meal. Red peppers, peeled tomatoes and onions that are cooked with ricotta and spices. The final product is a thick sauce, which when accompanied with a little bread actually becomes quite abundant.
Tavë Kosi
Albanian food is known for its lamb and veal, and ‘tavë kosi’ is one of the country's best-loved dishes. The lamb is cooked in an earthenware dish with eggs and yogurt: the end result is a quiche-like dish, with tender meat and a light, creamy egg coating.
Qofte – Albanian fried meatballs
‘Qofte’ in Albania are mainly meatballs. Often, in the best ‘qebaptore’ they appear as small sausages, they are called ‘qofte zgare’.
Speca të mbushur – Stuffed peppers
Yellow, orange or red peppers stuffed with rice, ricotta and spices, before being baked in the oven. One of the typically Albanian dishes, rich in flavor and also quite healthy.
Byrek
The ‘byrek’ is one of the most classic Albanian dishes and it is very easy to find it in various shapes and with fillings of all kinds throughout the country.
Extra / Shëndetlie
This honey cake is a typical Albanian dessert, and it is also very popular. It is made with the usual cake ingredients but what sets it apart is the addition of honey and nuts.
Also, when the dessert is ready, a warm syrup made with vanilla, water and cloves are poured over the cake and left to soak overnight
