Indulge in the culinary heritage of Kosovo with Kosovo Pite, a delightful pie crafted from delicate layers of filo pastry and a medley of savory fillings. This beloved dish showcases the artistry of Balkan cuisine, featuring options like rich cheese, earthy spinach, or seasoned meat nestled between each thin sheet of pastry.

Kosovo Pite represents more than just a pie; it encapsulates the warmth of Balkan hospitality and the traditions passed down through generations. Whether enjoyed as a comforting family meal or a centerpiece at festive gatherings, this dish offers a tantalizing blend of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.

Discover the allure of Kosovo Pite and savor the essence of Kosovo's culinary legacy, one mouthwatering layer at a time.

Ingredients:

  - 1 package (about 450g) of filo pastry sheets 

  - 200g feta cheese, crumbled 

  - 200g cottage cheese or ricotta cheese 

  - 200g fresh spinach, chopped 

  - 200g ground meat (beef or lamb), cooked and seasoned (optional) 

  - 1 onion, finely chopped 

  - 3-4 eggs, beaten 

  - 1/2 cup olive oil or melted butter 

  - Salt and pepper, to taste 

  - Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1- Prepare the Fillings:

  - In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, cottage cheese (or ricotta), chopped spinach, cooked ground meat (if using), chopped onion, and beaten eggs.  - Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

2- Assemble the Pite:

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

  - Brush a baking dish (typically rectangular) with olive oil or melted butter.

  - Lay a sheet of filo pastry in the baking dish, allowing the edges to hang over the sides. Brush the pastry lightly with olive oil or melted butter.

  - Continue layering filo sheets, brushing each layer with oil or butter, until you have about 5-6 layers as the base.

3- Add the Fillings:

  - Spread a portion of the cheese and spinach mixture evenly over the layered filo pastry.

  - Add another layer of filo pastry on top of the filling, brush with oil or butter, and then spread another layer of filling.

  - Repeat this process until all the filling mixture is used, finishing with a final layer of filo pastry on top. Brush the top layer generously with oil or butter.

4- Bake the Pite:

  - With a sharp knife, carefully score the top layer of filo pastry into squares or diamond shapes (this will make it easier to portion later).

  - Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the pie is golden brown and crispy on top.

  - Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

5- Serve and Enjoy:

  - Once cooled slightly, cut the Kosovo Pite into squares or slices along the scored lines.

  - Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

  - Serve warm as a delicious appetizer, side dish, or main course, accompanied by a fresh salad or yogurt on the side.

Kosovo Pite is best enjoyed fresh and warm, but leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for another meal. This versatile pie is perfect for gatherings and can be customized with your favorite fillings to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy!

Nutritional Values :

Filo Pastry (450g package):

  - Calories: 1500-1800 kcal

  - Total Fat: 45-60g

  - Carbohydrates: 240-300g

  - Protein: 30-40g

benefits:

  - Filo pastry is typically low in saturated fat and cholesterol.

  - It provides carbohydrates for energy.

  - It's a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.

Feta Cheese (200g):

  - Calories: 480 kcal

  - Total Fat: 40g

  - Carbohydrates: 4g

  - Protein: 24g

benefits:

  - Feta cheese is a good source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.

  - It contains protein, which is important for muscle growth and repair.

  - Feta cheese also provides probiotics, which promote gut health and digestion.

Cottage Cheese or Ricotta (200g):

  - Calories: 180-240 kcal

  - Total Fat: 10-16g

  - Carbohydrates: 6-8g

  - Protein: 16-20g

benefits:

  - Cottage cheese and ricotta are high in protein, which helps with muscle repair and growth.

  - They are also good sources of calcium for bone health.

  - Cottage cheese and ricotta are lower in fat compared to many other cheeses, making them a healthier option.

Fresh Spinach (200g):

  - Calories: 40 kcal

  - Total Fat: 0.5g

  - Carbohydrates: 6g

  - Protein: 5g

benefits

  - Spinach is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin A, and folate.

  - It contains antioxidants that help protect against cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

  - Spinach is low in calories and carbohydrates but high in fiber, making it beneficial for weight management and digestion.

Ground Meat (200g, cooked):

  - Calories: 400-500 kcal

  - Total Fat: 20-30g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 40-50g

benefits

  - Ground meat is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.

  - It provides important nutrients like iron and zinc, which are necessary for overall health.

  - Including lean ground meat in moderation can be part of a balanced diet.

Onion (1 medium):

  - Calories: 45 kcal

  - Total Fat: 0.1g

  - Carbohydrates: 11g

  - Protein: 1g

benefits

  - Onions contain antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.

  - They are rich in vitamins C and B6, which support immune function and energy metabolism.

  - Onions also provide fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Eggs (3-4 eggs):

  - Calories: 210-280 kcal

  - Total Fat: 15-20g

  - Carbohydrates: 1-2g

  - Protein: 18-24g

benefits

  - Eggs are a complete protein source, meaning they contain all the essential amino acids necessary for the body.

  - They are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, vitamin B12, and choline, which are important for brain health and development.

  - Eggs provide lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that support eye health and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.

. Olive Oil or Butter (1/2 cup):

  - Calories: 960-1000 kcal (for olive oil), 800-900 kcal (for butter)

  - Total Fat: 108-120g (for olive oil), 90-100g (for butter)

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

benefits

  - Olive oil is high in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and may help reduce the risk of heart disease.

  - It contains antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory properties and may protect against oxidative stress.

  - Butter provides fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A, E, and K, which are essential for various bodily functions. However, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high saturated fat content.

Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and actual usage. It's recommended to check product labels or use a nutritional calculator for more precise values, especially if you have specific dietary requirements or preferences.