Albanian Byrek is a traditional dish celebrated in Albanian cuisine, featuring layers of delicate phyllo dough filled with a savory mixture. The filling typically includes crumbled feta cheese, chopped spinach, fresh parsley, and a blend of seasonings. To prepare, layers of phyllo dough are brushed with melted butter, stacked with the filling, and baked until golden brown. This dish is a testament to Albania's culinary heritage, known for its crispy texture and rich flavors.

Albanian Byrek holds a significant place in Albanian culinary heritage, tracing its origins back through generations. Its preparation and enjoyment are deeply rooted in Albanian culture, often shared during family gatherings, celebrations, and everyday meals. The dish's evolution reflects Albania's historical influences and its rich tradition of hospitality.

Ingredients:

- 1 package of phyllo dough (16-18 sheets)

- 500 grams of feta cheese, crumbled

- 2 eggs

- 250 grams of spinach, chopped

- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped

- 1 teaspoon of salt

- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper

- 1/4 cup of olive oil

- Butter, melted (for brushing the phyllo layers)

Instructions:

Preparing the Filling:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, chopped spinach, parsley, salt, and black pepper.

2. Beat one egg and add it to the mixture. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Handling the Phyllo Dough:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Carefully unroll the phyllo dough sheets and keep them covered with a slightly damp kitchen towel to prevent drying out.

Layering the Phyllo Sheets:

1. Brush the bottom of a baking dish or round pan with olive oil.

2. Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the pan, ensuring it covers the entire bottom surface. Lightly brush with melted butter. Repeat this process, layering the phyllo sheets and brushing each one with melted butter until half of the sheets are used.

Adding the Filling:

1. Spread the prepared filling evenly over the layered phyllo sheets in the pan.

Continuing the Layering:

1. Layer the remaining sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each one with melted butter as before.

Folding and Baking:

1. Fold the excess edges of the phyllo sheets inward to create a neat border.

2. Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the top layer of phyllo dough for a golden crust.

3. Cut the Byrek into small diamond-shaped or square pieces using a sharp knife.

4. Optional: Sprinkle sesame seeds or nigella seeds on top for added flavor and texture.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until the Byrek turns golden brown.

Serve warm and enjoy the authentic flavors of Albanian Byrek!

Nutrition Value:

1. Phyllo Dough (1 package, 16-18 sheets):

  - Calories: Approximately 1,500-1,800 calories (depending on brand and thickness)

  - Carbohydrates: About 200-220 grams

  - Protein: Around 30-40 grams

  - Fat: Approximately 70-90 grams

  - Sodium: Varies widely; typically around 1,000-1,200 mg

  - Cholesterol: Usually low, about 0-30 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of iron, calcium, and some B vitamins

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides energy from carbohydrates and fats, with some protein. Phyllo dough is low in sugar and cholesterol-free, but high in calories and sodium.

2. Feta Cheese (500 grams, crumbled):

  - Calories: Approximately 1,000 calories

  - Carbohydrates: About 20 grams

  - Protein: Around 50 grams

  - Fat: Approximately 80 grams

  - Sodium: About 4,000 mg

  - Cholesterol: Around 300 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: High in calcium, phosphorus, and B vitamins (especially riboflavin and B12)

  - Nutritional Benefit: Rich source of protein and calcium, though high in sodium and saturated fats. Provides vitamins important for bone health and metabolism.

3. Eggs (2 eggs):

  - Calories: Approximately 140-160 calories

  - Carbohydrates: Less than 2 grams

  - Protein: About 12 grams

  - Fat: Approximately 9-10 grams

  - Sodium: About 140 mg

  - Cholesterol: Around 370 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: High in vitamin B12, riboflavin, and selenium. Also contains iron and zinc.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Excellent source of complete protein and various essential vitamins and minerals, but high in cholesterol.

4. Spinach (250 grams, chopped):

  - Calories: Approximately 50-60 calories

  - Carbohydrates: About 7-8 grams

  - Protein: Around 5 grams

  - Fat: Less than 1 gram

  - Sodium: About 150-200 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: High in vitamin A, vitamin K, folate, iron, and manganese

  - Nutritional Benefit: Low in calories and fat, spinach is rich in vitamins and minerals, especially beneficial for eye health (vitamin A) and bone health (vitamin K and calcium).

5. Fresh Parsley (1 bunch, finely chopped):

  - Calories: Approximately 20-25 calories

  - Carbohydrates: About 3-4 grams

  - Protein: Around 2 grams

  - Fat: Less than 1 gram

  - Sodium: About 20 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: High in vitamin K, vitamin C, and folate. Also contains small amounts of calcium and iron.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, parsley supports immune function and bone health.

6. Salt (1 teaspoon):

  - Nutritional Content: Contains about 2,300 mg of sodium per teaspoon

  - Nutritional Benefit: Enhances flavor, but excessive consumption can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues.

7. Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon):

  - Nutritional Content: Negligible calories, carbs, protein, and fat; minimal sodium

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides a mild spicy flavor and may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

8. Olive Oil (1/4 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 480 calories

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

  - Fat: About 54 grams (mainly monounsaturated fats)

  - Sodium: 0 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamin E and K, and antioxidants

  - Nutritional Benefit: Healthy source of fats, especially monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.

9. Butter, Melted (for brushing phyllo layers):

  - Calories: Approximately 100-120 calories per tablespoon (depends on the type and brand)

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: About 11-12 grams

  - Sodium: Varies; typically about 90-100 mg per tablespoon

  - Cholesterol: About 30-35 mg per tablespoon

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of vitamin A and D

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds flavor and texture, but high in saturated fats and cholesterol.

These nutritional breakdowns can help in understanding the health aspects of each ingredient and their contributions to the overall dish.