Embark on a culinary journey through the rich flavors of Albania with the beloved Byrek. This iconic Albanian dish, a savory pastry filled with a delectable mixture of ingredients, is a testament to the country's culinary heritage. Passed down through generations, the art of crafting the perfect Byrek has become a cherished tradition in Albanian households.

In this recipe, we will guide you through the steps of creating an authentic Albanian Byrek, ensuring that each layer of flaky phyllo pastry envelops a symphony of flavors that pay homage to the country's diverse influences. From the crispy golden crust to the savory filling, Albanian Byrek is a celebration of simplicity and taste that captures the essence of Albanian hospitality and warmth. Join us as we unravel the secrets behind this timeless dish and bring a taste of Albania to your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 500g spinach, washed and chopped
• 200g feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing

For the Layers:

• 10 sheets of phyllo pastry
• 1 cup melted butter or olive oil for brushing

Instructions:

Prepare the Filling:

1-In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.

2-Sauté the chopped onion until translucent.

3-Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.

4-Remove from heat and let it cool.

5-In a bowl, mix the cooled spinach and onions with crumbled feta, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Prepare the Layers:

1-Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2-Brush a baking dish with melted butter or olive oil.

3-Place one sheet of phyllo pastry in the baking dish and brush it with melted butter or olive oil. Repeat until you have five layers.

Add the Filling:

1-Spread half of the spinach and feta mixture evenly over the phyllo layers.

Continue Layering:

1-Add five more layers of phyllo on top of the filling, brushing each layer with melted butter or olive oil.

Add the Remaining Filling:

1-Spread the remaining spinach and feta mixture over the second set of phyllo layers.

Finish with Layers:

1-Top the filling with the remaining five sheets of phyllo, brushing each layer with melted butter or olive oil.

Bake:

1-Brush the top layer with a final layer of melted butter or olive oil.

2-Using a sharp knife, cut the Byrek into squares or triangles before baking.

3-Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Serve:

1-Allow the Byrek to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the authentic flavors of Albanian Byrek!

This recipe captures the essence of Albanian Byrek, but feel free to experiment with different fillings according to your taste preferences.

Nutritional Values :

While I cannot provide exact nutritional values without specific brands and preparation methods, I can offer a general idea of the nutritional content for the listed ingredients. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as cooking methods and specific product brands.

Spinach (500g, washed and chopped:)

Calories: 100

• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 8g
• Fat: 2g

benefits

• High in vitamins A, C, and K.
• Rich in iron, magnesium, and folate.
• Provides antioxidants that support overall health

Feta Cheese (200g, crumbled):

• Calories: 500
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 40g

benefits

• Good source of calcium and phosphorus for bone health.
• Contains protein for muscle repair and growth.
• Provides B vitamins, including B12, for energy metabolism.

Onion (1, finely chopped):

• Calories: 40
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Fat: 0g

benefits

• Rich in antioxidants, particularly quercetin.
• Contains fiber, which supports digestive health.
• May have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

Eggs (2, beaten):

• Calories: 140
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fat: 10g

benefits

• Excellent source of high-quality protein.
• Rich in essential amino acids for muscle and tissue repair.
• Contains choline, important for brain health.

Olive Oil for Sautéing:

• Calories: 120 (1 tablespoon)
• Fat: 14g
• No protein or carbohydrates

benefits

• Healthy monounsaturated fats that may support heart health.
• Contains antioxidants, such as vitamin E.
• May have anti-inflammatory properties.

Phyllo Pastry (10 sheets):

Calories: 190 (per sheet, may vary)

• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fat: 10g

benefits

• Provides carbohydrates for energy.
• Low in saturated fat compared to some pastry options.
• Adds a crispy, flaky texture to dishes.

Melted Butter or Olive Oil for Brushing (1 cup):

• Calories: 1920 (for butter) or 240 (for olive oil)
• Fat: 216g (for butter) or 27g (for olive oil)
• No protein or carbohydrates

benefits

• Butter: Adds rich flavor and texture; a source of saturated fat.
• Olive Oil: Contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Both contribute to the golden, crispy finish of the Byrek.

Please note that these values are rough estimates and can change based on the specific products you use and the quantities in your recipe. Always check the nutritional information on product labels for the most accurate details.