Overview of Albanian Cuisine

What makes one's country specific is its tradition. According to this fact, national cuisine is also one more evidence to the uniqueness of one's country; even if that country have many influences. I could say that Balkan cuisine is one of the most mixed cuisines that ever exist on this world. One of the Balkans countries that has amazingly diverse and tasty cuisine is Albania. Mostly Albanian cuisine is influenced by Greek, Italian and Turkish cuisines. Moreover, Albanian cuisine presents a one of a kind mix of Mediterranean flavors. Every part of Albania holds dishes that are characteristic only to that part.

If you are into experimenting different tastes, than you should definitely try the Albanian cuisine. Here are several dishes that are must-try-it: "Tavë kosi" is one of the national Albanian meals that became classic. It is a backed lamb with rice which is served with sauce of yoghurt. This meal will take your breath away! Another dish, which certainly deserves to be on our list is "Gjellë me Arra të Ellit" which is a cooked chicken or veal with walnuts. Moreover, Albanians have "tavë me presh", baked minced meat with leeks, which could be found only in this country.

The specialty of the capital city, Tirana, is a dish called "Fergesë e Tiranës me speca" which is sautéed tomatoes and peppers with feta cheese. Going deeper in Albanian cuisine, you would find "Jani me Fasule", a delicious easily prepared bean soup. In addition, seafood meals are frequent in the coastal part of Albania. Among the most popular cities that served excellent seafood specialties are Sarandë, Vlorë, Lezhe, Durrës and many more. What is also important for Albanian cuisine is that vegetables are used in almost all meals. Oregano, Mint, Black Pepper, Rosemary and Basil are only few of the Mediterranean herbs that are used in Albanian cuisine. Also, butter and olive oil are major ingredients in Albanian dishes.

What is more for Albanian cuisine is that it abounds with many mouth-watering desserts. First of our tasty list is "kabuni". This dessert is made of fried rice in butter with mutton broth, sugar, ground cloves and cinnamon. Next on our list is "ballokume" characteristic only for Elbasan. The last, but not the least on our list is "Hoshaf me fiq të thatë" which is a stewed dry figs dessert, a kind of a pudding.

When we talk about Albanian beverages, the first thing that will come up on our mind is "Skenderbeg" cognac, a high quality brandy with unique taste and aroma that has won many international awards. Another one is "raki", type of brandy made of grape or plum, which is mostly popular among the local citizens. Also, the list of Balkan Wines would not be complete if there are not mentioned Albanian quality wines. The most popular Albanian beers are: Birra Korça and Birra Tirana

To conclude, Albanian cuisine is a great challenge for those who what to experiment with their diet. Also, on behalf of a rich historical past, today's Albanian cuisine is a blend of many influences that have made it unique. Also, you can find some relevant books and read it more about Albanian food.

Overview of Albanian Cuisine