Welcome to the heart of Albanian culinary heritage, where rich traditions and bold flavors come together in a symphony of taste. In this culinary exploration, we delve into the exquisite world of "Speca Me Gjize," a classic Albanian dish that captures the essence of the country's gastronomic diversity.

Speca Me Gjize, translated as "Peppers with Cheese," is a beloved Albanian recipe that showcases the country's commitment to simple yet robust flavors. This dish embodies the warmth of Albanian hospitality, often gracing tables during festive occasions and family gatherings. The combination of vibrant bell peppers and creamy cheese creates a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds, making it a staple in Albanian kitchens.

Join us on this gastronomic adventure as we unravel the secrets behind preparing Speca Me Gjize, celebrating the unique flavors that have been passed down through generations. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a culinary enthusiast, this recipe promises to bring a piece of Albanian trad

ition to your home, filling it with the aromas and tastes of this culturally rich and flavorful dish.

Here's a simple and authentic recipe for Speca Me Gjize:

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 200g feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Bell Peppers:

1-Wash the bell peppers and cut them in half lengthwise.

2-Remove the seeds and membranes, creating a hollow cavity in each half.

Make the Filling:

1-In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, Greek yogurt, and minced garlic.

2-Mix the ingredients well until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.

3-Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste.

Fill the Bell Peppers:Spoon the feta and yogurt mixture into each bell pepper half, distributing it evenly.

Bake:

1-Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2-Place the stuffed bell peppers on a baking sheet.

3-Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed peppers.

Bake until Golden:Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender, and the filling develops a golden brown crust.

Serve:

1-Once done, remove the stuffed peppers from the oven.

2-Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.

Enjoy:

Serve the Speca Me Gjize warm as a delightful appetizer or side dish. It pairs well with crusty bread or can be enjoyed on its own.

This Speca Me Gjize recipe captures the essence of Albanian flavors, offering a balance of creamy and tangy notes within the sweet, roasted peppers. Embrace the taste of Albanian tradition with this simple yet delicious dish!

Nutritional Values:

Nutritional values can vary based on specific brands and variations of ingredients, but here's a general estimate for the nutritional content of the specified ingredients:

Bell Peppers (4 large):

• Calories: 120
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 1g

benefits:

• Rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune health and skin health.
• High in antioxidants that may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Feta Cheese (200g):

• Calories: 530
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Protein: 21g
• Fat: 45g
• Saturated Fat: 32g

benefits:

• Good source of calcium, promoting bone health.
• Contains probiotics that support gut health.
• Provides protein for muscle maintenance and repair.

Greek Yogurt (1 cup):

• Calories: 150
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g

benefits:

• High in protein, aiding in muscle development and repair.
• Contains probiotics for a healthy digestive system.
• Rich in calcium, supporting bone health.

Garlic (2 cloves):

• Calories: 10
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:

• Has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Contains allicin, a compound with potential health benefits.
• May help boost the immune system.

Olive Oil (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 240
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 4g

benefits:

• Healthy monounsaturated fats may support heart health.
• Contains antioxidants that combat inflammation.
• May have anti-cancer properties.

Salt and Pepper:

• Nutritional content is negligible as these are typically used in small amounts for seasoning.

benefits:

• Adds flavor to dishes.
• Essential for maintaining proper electrolyte balance in the body.

Fresh Parsley (for garnish):

• Calories: 1
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:

• Rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
• Contains antioxidants with potential anti-inflammatory properties.
• May support bone health.

These values are rough estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients used. It's always a good idea to check the nutritional information on the packaging for the most accurate details. Keep in mind that this is for the entire recipe, and individual serving sizes will have a proportionately smaller nutritional content.