Embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant tastes of Albania with our featured recipe – Lakror. A cherished dish deeply rooted in Albanian culinary tradition, Lakror is a delectable savory pie that captures the essence of the country's rich heritage. Combining layers of thin dough with a mouthwatering filling, this dish is a celebration of flavors and a testament to the warmth of Albanian hospitality. Join us as we unravel the secrets behind creating the perfect Lakror, inviting you to experience the essence of Albania right in your own kitchen. Let the aroma of this time-honored recipe transport you to the picturesque landscapes of Albania, where every bite tells a story of tradition, culture, and culinary artistry.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm water
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef or a mixture of beef and lamb
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chopped spinach or Swiss chard
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

For Assembly:

• Olive oil for brushing
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

1-In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and gradually add the warm water and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.

2-Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth. Divide it into two portions and let them rest, covered, for about 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

1-In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking until softened.

2-Stir in the spinach or Swiss chard and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.

3-Add the feta cheese, chopped parsley, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set the filling aside to cool.

Assemble the Lakror:

1-Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2-Roll out one portion of the dough into a thin sheet on a floured surface. Place it in a greased baking dish, allowing the excess dough to hang over the edges.

3-Add the cooled filling evenly over the dough.

Layering:Roll out the second portion of the dough and place it over the filling, covering the entire pie. Trim the excess dough and fold the edges to seal the pie.

Baking:

1-Brush the top of the Lakror with olive oil and sprinkle sesame seeds if desired.

2-Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Serve:

1-Allow the Lakror to cool slightly before slicing. Serve it warm as a delightful appetizer or main dish, embracing the authentic flavors of Albania.

Enjoy this delightful Lakror, a savory pie with thin layers of dough that encapsulates the essence of Albanian culinary heritage.

Nutritional Values:

It's challenging to provide precise nutritional values for a recipe without specific brands or measurements. However, I can offer approximate values for the individual ingredients based on common nutritional data:

All-Purpose Flour (3 cups):

• Calories: 1140 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 237g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 2g

benefits: Provides a good source of carbohydrates for energy.

Warm Water (1 cup):

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

benefits: Essential for hydration and aids in the mixing and consistency of the dough.

Olive Oil (1/4 cup):

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 54g

benefits: Contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and adds richness to the dough.

Salt (1 teaspoon):

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

benefits: Enhances flavor and regulates the yeast activity in the dough.

Ground Beef (1 pound):

• Calories: 1040 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 104g
• Fat: 72g

benefits: Excellent source of protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins.

Onion (1 large):

• Calories: 60 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals; adds flavor to the filling.

Garlic (2 cloves):

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

benefits: Known for its immune-boosting properties and adds a distinct flavor.

Spinach or Swiss Chard (1 cup):

• Calories: 7 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants; contributes to a colorful and nutritious filling.

Feta Cheese (1 cup crumbled):

• Calories: 396 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Protein: 21g
• Fat: 32g

benefits: High in calcium and protein, adds a creamy and tangy flavor to the dish.

Fresh Parsley (1/2 cup):

• Calories: 11 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Rich in vitamins K, C, and A; adds freshness and a burst of flavor.

Paprika (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 6 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Contains antioxidants and adds a mild, sweet flavor and vibrant color.

Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 3 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Provides a unique flavor and is rich in antioxidants.

Olive Oil for Brushing:

• Calories: Variable (depends on amount used)

benefits: Adds a finishing touch and contributes to the overall richness of the dish.

Sesame Seeds for Garnish (optional):

• Calories: Variable (depends on amount used)

benefits: Adds a nutty flavor and texture; a source of healthy fats and protein.

Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific product brands and preparation methods. Always refer to product labels for accurate nutritional information.