Welcome to a culinary journey that captures the essence of Albanian gastronomy - a journey where flavors intertwine with rich tradition. In the heart of this culinary adventure lies the spotlight on a beloved Albanian dish: Kackavall. Renowned for its simplicity and robust taste, Kackavall holds a special place in Albanian homes, symbolizing a connection to the country's cultural roots.

As we embark on the exploration of this delightful Albanian recipe, be prepared to discover the magic of Kackavall - a cheese-based dish that not only satisfies the taste buds but also carries a history as rich and diverse as the Albanian landscape. Join us as we unravel the secrets behind preparing this mouthwatering treat, inviting you to recreate a slice of Albanian culinary heritage in your own kitchen. Get ready to indulge in the savory goodness of Kackavall and experience the true essence of Albanian comfort food.

Ingredients:

• 500g Albanian Kackavall cheese, sliced
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

Prep the Kackavall:Cut the Kackavall cheese into slices of about 1/2 inch thickness. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Create the Coating Station:In three separate bowls, set up your coating station. In the first bowl, place the flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. In the third bowl, mix breadcrumbs with paprika, salt, and pepper.

Coat the Cheese:Take each Kackavall slice and coat it first in the flour, ensuring an even layer. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the slice in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere.

4. Chill the Coated Cheese:Place the coated Kackavall slices on a plate and refrigerate for about 15-20 minutes. This helps the coating set and prevents it from separating during frying.

5. Heat the Oil:In a deep pan or skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C).

6. Fry the Kackavall:Carefully place the coated Kackavall slices into the hot oil, a few at a time, to avoid overcrowding. Fry until they turn golden brown on both sides, usually about 2-3 minutes per side.

7. Drain and Serve:Once the Kackavall slices are golden and crispy, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

8. Serve Warm:Arrange the fried Kackavall slices on a serving platter and serve them warm. They make a perfect side dish, appetizer, or even a delightful addition to a cheese platter.

9. Optional: Serve with Dipping Sauce:Enhance the experience by serving the fried Kackavall with a side of marinara sauce or a squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of flavor.

Enjoy the rich, golden goodness of Albanian Kackavall – a delicious and comforting side dish that brings a taste of Albania to your table!

Nutritional Values:

Nutritional values can vary based on specific brands and variations of ingredients. However, I can provide you with approximate values for the mentioned ingredients per standard serving size:

Albanian Kackavall Cheese (500g, sliced):

• Calories: 2000 kcal
• Protein: 130g
• Fat: 160g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
• Calcium: 6000mg (approximate, based on cheese type)

benefits:

• Rich in protein, calcium, and phosphorus for bone health.
• Provides essential fats for energy and nutrient absorption.
• Contains vitamins like vitamin A, contributing to vision health.

Eggs (2 large):

• Calories: 140 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g

benefits:

• Excellent source of high-quality protein for muscle building and repair.
• Rich in choline, essential for brain and nervous system function.
• Contains various vitamins (B2, B12, D) and minerals (iodine) crucial for overall health.

All-Purpose Flour (1 cup):

• Calories: 455 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 95g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 0g

benefits:

• Good source of carbohydrates for energy.
• Provides some dietary fiber for digestive health.
• Contains small amounts of essential minerals like iron and magnesium.

Breadcrumbs (1 cup):

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 72g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 8g

benefits:

• Offers additional dietary fiber for digestive health.
• Can contribute to a feeling of fullness, aiding in weight management.
• Depending on the type used, may contain added vitamins and minerals.

Paprika (1 teaspoon):

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

benefits:

• Contains antioxidants, such as vitamin C, which help protect cells from damage.
• Adds flavor without extra calories or sodium.
• May have anti-inflammatory properties.

Salt and Pepper (to taste):

• Negligible caloric contribution

benefits:

• Salt provides sodium, essential for maintaining fluid balance in the body.
• Adds flavor but should be used in moderation to manage sodium intake.
• Pepper adds a kick of flavor and may have antioxidant properties.

Vegetable Oil (for frying, approximate usage):

• Calories: 120 kcal per tablespoon
• Fat: 14g per tablespoon

benefits:

• Provides healthy fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
• Contains vitamin E, an antioxidant that supports skin health.
• Should be used in moderation for optimal health benefits.

Keep in mind that these values are approximations and can vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients you use. Additionally, the nutritional content may change depending on the cooking method and any additional ingredients used in the preparation.