Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Albania as we unravel the secrets of a beloved traditional dish – Albania Pite. This delectable savory pie, deeply rooted in Albanian culinary heritage, captures the essence of the country's rich history and diverse flavors. With a crispy golden crust and a luscious filling, Albania Pite is a testament to the warmth and hospitality of Albanian culture. Join us as we delve into the ingredients and steps to create this mouthwatering masterpiece, allowing you to bring a taste of Albania to your own kitchen. Get ready to embrace the spirit of Albanian cuisine and treat your senses to an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup lukewarm water
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 2 cups feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

1-In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.

2-Gradually add the lukewarm water and olive oil, mixing continuously until a soft dough forms.

3-Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth.

4-Divide the dough into two equal portions.

Prepare the Filling:In a separate bowl, mix together the crumbled feta cheese, cottage cheese, eggs, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Ensure the filling is well combined.

Assemble the Pite:

1-Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

2-Roll out one portion of the dough on a floured surface to fit the size of your baking dish. Place it at the bottom.

3-Spread the cheese filling evenly over the dough.

Layering: Roll out the second portion of the dough and carefully place it over the filling, sealing the edges with the bottom crust.

Bake:

1-Brush the top of the Pite with a little olive oil for a golden finish.

2-Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.

Serve:

Allow the Albania Pite to cool slightly before slicing and serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Feel free to customize the filling by adding sautéed onions, spinach, or other ingredients according to your taste preferences. This Albania Pite is a delightful dish that reflects the delicious simplicity of Albanian cuisine. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Nutritional Values

Nutritional values can vary based on specific brands and variations of ingredients, but here's a general estimate for the listed ingredients per serving:

Per Serving:

For the Dough:

All-Purpose Flour (3 cups):Calories: 1080

• Carbohydrates: 225g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 3g

benefits

• A good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body. It also contains small amounts of protein.

Lukewarm Water (1 cup):Calories: 0

• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits

Essential for hydration and helps in various bodily functions, including digestion and nutrient absorption.

Olive Oil (1/2 cup):Calories: 960

• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 112g

benefits

Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, olive oil is heart-healthy and may contribute to reducing inflammation.

Salt (1 teaspoon):Calories: 0

• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits

• Necessary for maintaining the body's fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions.

For the Filling:

Feta Cheese, Crumbled (2 cups):Calories: 1080

• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 52g
• Fat: 88g

benefits

A good source of calcium and protein, feta cheese contributes to bone health and helps build and repair tissues.

Cottage Cheese (1 cup):Calories: 220

• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 8g

benefits

High in protein and rich in vitamins and minerals, cottage cheese supports muscle development, bone health, and immune function.

Eggs (2):Calories: 140

• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 10g

benefits

Packed with high-quality protein, essential amino acids, and various vitamins (such as B12 and D), eggs are beneficial for muscle strength, energy production, and overall health.

Fresh Parsley, Chopped (1/4 cup):Calories: 1

• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits

A good source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants, parsley contributes to immune support and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Additional Seasoning:

Salt and Pepper:

Nutritional values are minimal and usually not included in the overall count.

benefits

While consumed in small amounts, salt enhances flavor, and black pepper contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory effects.

Total Estimated Nutritional Values per Serving:

• Calories: Approximately 4652
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 276g
• Protein: Approximately 132g
• Fat: Approximately 221g

Keep in mind that these values are rough estimates and can vary based on the actual brands and specific measurements used. Always check the nutritional information on the packaging of your ingredients for the most accurate details.