Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Albania as we explore the delectable world of Tavë Kosi, a traditional dish that embodies the rich heritage and distinctive tastes of this Balkan nation. Tavë Kosi, often considered the national dish of Albania, is a savory delight that combines succulent lamb with the creamy goodness of yogurt, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

In this culinary adventure, we will unravel the secrets behind preparing Tavë Kosi, offering you a step-by-step guide to recreate this authentic Albanian masterpiece in the comfort of your own kitchen. Immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of Albania through its gastronomic treasures, and let Tavë Kosi be your gateway to a culinary experience that celebrates tradition, flavor, and the warmth of Albanian hospitality.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg lamb, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 500g Greek yogurt
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup rice
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:

1-Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2-Prepare the Lamb:

3-Season the lamb pieces with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb pieces on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Rice:

1-In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add the rice and cook for a few minutes until it's lightly toasted. Remove from heat.

2-Layering in the Baking Dish:

3-Grease a baking dish with butter. Spread the toasted rice mixture evenly at the bottom of the dish. Place the browned lamb pieces on top.

Prepare the Yogurt Mixture:In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, eggs, and flour until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Pour this mixture over the lamb and rice in the baking dish.

Bake:Cut the butter into small pieces and scatter them over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-60 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the lamb is tender.

Serve:

1-Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

2-Enjoy the delightful Tavë Kosi, a harmonious blend of lamb, yogurt, and spices that captures the essence of Albanian cuisine! Serve it alongside a fresh salad or with crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Nutritional Values:

It's challenging to provide precise nutritional values without specific brand information and preparation details, but I can offer general estimates based on standard nutritional databases. Keep in mind that these are rough approximations:

1 kg lamb, cut into bite-sized pieces:

• Calories: 2500 kcal
• Protein: 200g
• Fat: 180g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:

• Excellent source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in various vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, zinc, and iron.

2 tablespoons olive oil:

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:

• Healthy monounsaturated fats can support heart health.
• Contains antioxidants that may have anti-inflammatory properties.

2 tablespoons butter:

• Calories: 200 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:

• Provides a good source of saturated fats and calories for energy.
• Contains vitamins like A and E.

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour:

• Calories: 60 kcal
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g

benefits:

• Source of carbohydrates for energy.
• Contains some protein and small amounts of vitamins and minerals.

500g Greek yogurt:

• Calories: 340 kcal
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 15g

benefits:

• High in protein, crucial for muscle development and repair.
• Contains probiotics that promote gut health.
• Good source of calcium for bone health.

3 eggs:

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 1.5g

benefits:

• Excellent source of high-quality protein.
• Rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins and selenium.

1 cup rice (cooked):

• Calories: 200 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g

benefits:

• A significant source of carbohydrates for energy.
• Contains small amounts of protein and various vitamins and minerals.

1 onion, finely chopped:

• Calories: 45 kcal
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 11g

benefits:

• Provides dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.
• Contains antioxidants and vitamins, including vitamin C.

2 cloves garlic, minced:

• Calories: 10 kcal
• Protein: 0.5g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g

benefits:

• Known for potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• Contains antioxidants that may contribute to overall health.

Salt and pepper to taste:

• Negligible in calories

benefits:

• Enhance flavor but should be used in moderation.
• Salt provides essential sodium for electrolyte balance.

Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish:

• Negligible in calories

benefits:

• A good source of vitamins, including vitamin K and vitamin C.
• Contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Please note that these values are rough estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients used and their brands. If you're aiming for precise nutritional information, it's recommended to use a nutrition calculator or consult with a nutritionist.