Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Albania with the savory and indulgent delight known as Qumeshtor. This traditional Albanian dish holds a special place in the country's gastronomic heritage, offering a taste of creamy perfection that has been cherished for generations. With its rich blend of ingredients and cultural significance, Qumeshtor represents more than just a dish – it encapsulates the warmth and hospitality that characterize Albanian cuisine. Join us in unraveling the secrets behind this delectable treat and learn how to recreate the authentic flavors of Albania in your own kitchen. And did you know? Qumeshtor in English means the milky dish, adding a touch of linguistic flair to its culinary allure.

Here's a simple recipe for making Albania Qumeshtor, a delightful dessert featuring the combination of milk and cornmeal:

Ingredients:

- 1 cup cornmeal

- 4 cups whole milk

- 1 cup sugar

- 1/2 cup unsalted butter

- 1/2 cup plain yogurt

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- Pinch of salt

- Ground cinnamon for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Cornmeal Mixture:In a bowl, combine the cornmeal with 2 cups of cold milk. Stir well to avoid lumps and let it sit for about 30 minutes.

Cook the Cornmeal Mixture:

1-In a large saucepan, heat the remaining 2 cups of milk over medium heat until it's warm but not boiling.

2- Gradually whisk in the cornmeal mixture, stirring continuously to prevent clumps from forming.

Add Sugar and Butter:

1- Once the cornmeal mixture is well incorporated, add sugar and continue stirring.

2- Add the unsalted butter to the mixture and keep stirring until the butter is melted and the mixture thickens.

Incorporate Yogurt and Vanilla:

1- Remove the saucepan from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

2- Stir in the plain yogurt and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Set and Serve:

1- Pour the Qumeshtor mixture into a serving dish or individual bowls.

2- Allow it to cool to room temperature, and then refrigerate for a few hours or overnight until it sets.

Garnish and Serve:

1- Before serving, sprinkle ground cinnamon on top for added flavor and a touch of elegance.

Enjoy your homemade Albania Qumeshtor! This creamy and comforting dessert is a wonderful representation of Albanian culinary tradition. Serve it chilled and savor the unique combination of milk and cornmeal that makes this dish truly special.

Nutritional Values:

While exact nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and variations of the ingredients used, here's an approximate breakdown for the key components in the Qumeshtor recipe per serving:

1 cup cornmeal:

  - Calories: 435 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 94.7 g

  - Protein: 9.4 g

  - Fat: 4.3 g

  - Sodium: 9 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin K.

  - Minerals: Contains iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, and selenium.

 benefits: Cornmeal is rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and can help lower cholesterol levels. It also provides essential minerals like iron and magnesium.

4 cups whole milk:

  - Calories: 600 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 48 g

  - Protein: 32 g

  - Fat: 32 g

  - Sodium: 400 mg

  - Cholesterol: 120 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and riboflavin.

  - Minerals: Contains calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium.

  benefits: Whole milk is a good source of calcium, which is important for bone health. It also provides protein and essential vitamins for overall nutrition.

1 cup sugar:

  - Calories: 774 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 200 g

  - Protein: 0 g

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Sodium: 1 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  benefits: Sugar provides a quick source of energy but should be consumed in moderation as it is high in calories and can contribute to health issues like weight gain and tooth decay.

1/2 cup unsalted butter:

  - Calories: 814 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0.1 g

  - Protein: 0.6 g

  - Fat: 91 g

  - Sodium: 2 mg

  - Cholesterol: 244 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, and vitamin K.

  - Minerals: Contains calcium and phosphorus.

   benefits: Butter is high in saturated fat and calories, so it should be consumed in moderation. It adds flavor and richness to dishes but should be balanced with healthier fats in the diet.

1/2 cup plain yogurt:

  - Calories: 61 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 5.4 g

  - Protein: 3.5 g

  - Fat: 3.3 g

  - Sodium: 48 mg

  - Cholesterol: 16 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin B12 and riboflavin.

  - Minerals: Contains calcium and phosphorus.

 benefits: Yogurt is a good source of probiotics, calcium, and protein. It supports gut health and provides essential nutrients.

1 teaspoon vanilla extract:

  - Calories: 12 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0.5 g

  - Protein: 0 g

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Sodium: 0 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  benefits: Vanilla extract is mainly used for flavoring and does not contribute significant calories or nutrients to the dish.

Pinch of salt:

   benefits: Salt adds flavor to the dish but should be used sparingly as excessive sodium intake can lead to health issues such as high blood pressure.

Ground cinnamon for garnish (optional):

  - Calories: 6 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 2 g

  - Protein: 0.1 g

  - Fat: 0.1 g

  - Sodium: 1 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin K.

  - Minerals: Contains calcium, iron, and manganese.

 benefits: Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties. It adds a warm, spicy flavor to dishes.