Tavë Kosi: All About Albania’s National Dish

Last updated on October 6th, 2023 at 02:32 pm

In a series celebrating the delightful array of traditional foods that our valued Remitly customers cherish, we shine the spotlight on a special dish that hails from Albania: tavë kosi.

As we unlock the secrets of this Albanian comfort food, we hope the rich tapestry of flavors will inspire you.

History of Tavë Kosi

Originating from the city of Elbasan in Central Albania, Tavë kosi, also known as Tavë Elbasani, is deeply rooted in Albania’s culinary history.

During the Ottoman era, many dishes were influenced by Turkey and other regions under the Ottoman Empire. The lamb casserole known as Tavë kosi is no exception. While its history can be traced back to both Turkish and Greek culinary traditions, Albanians have made it uniquely their own.

Tavë Kosi: Meaning and Variations

The name “tavë kosi” translates to “casserole with yogurt”, a fitting description given the dish’s composition. While the core ingredients remain consistent—tender lamb, yoghurt sauce, and beaten eggs—various regions in Albania have their distinct variations.

Some might add a hint of Mediterranean oregano, while others might lean towards garlic cloves for added depth.

What Is Typical Albanian Food?

Albanian cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean flavors and Balkan heartiness. Being neighbors with Greece and Turkey has imbued Albanian food with Greek and Turkish influences. Yet, at its core, it retains its unique identity.

Alongside tavë kosi, dishes like lamb shoulder cooked with long grain rice, and olive oil-based recipes are staples.

Common Ingredients

Central to the tavë kosi dish is baked lamb, often from the lamb shoulder, bathed in a rich yogurt mixture. The roux, made using a small saucepan over medium heat with butter and flour, thickens the yoghurt sauce. For added flavor, ingredients such as garlic cloves, black pepper, and diced oregano are common.

Olive oil is used generously, reflecting the Mediterranean influence on Albanian cuisine.

Classic Recipe for Albanian Tavë Kosi

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Ingredients:

• Lamb meat, preferably lamb shoulder, diced
• 2 cups of Greek yogurt or thick yoghurt
• 2 beaten eggs
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Olive oil
• 4 tbsp of butter for the roux
• 2 tbsp flour
• Salt and black pepper to taste

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a baking dish, place the diced lamb meat. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic.
3. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt with beaten eggs, ensuring a smooth consistency.
4. Prepare the roux by melting butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until it turns brown.
5. Slowly combine the roux with the yogurt mixture.
6. Pour the yogurt and roux combination over the lamb in the baking dish.
7. Bake for 1 hour and 20 minutes or until the lamb is tender and the top is golden.

3 Fascinating Facts about Tavë Kosi

1. Tavë kosi is not just a national dish of Albania; it’s a symbol of Albanian hospitality and is often prepared for special guests.
2. The dish is believed to have Turkish origins, a testament to the influence of the Ottoman Empire on Albanian dish evolution.
3. While tavë kosi is traditionally made with lamb, variations with chicken are becoming increasingly popular in modern Albanian households.

More about Albanian Cuisine

Diverse and flavorful, Albanian cuisine is an exciting blend of Mediterranean flavors and Ottoman tastes. The Albanian tavë kosi is just the tip of the iceberg. Dive deeper, and you’ll find an array of dishes that comfort the soul and delight the palate.

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