Albanian Leek and Cornmeal Casserole
Pispili me Presh
A savory and hearty meatless pie from Albania, Pispili me Presh combines the earthy flavor of leeks with the comforting texture of cornmeal, bound together with eggs and feta cheese. It's an inexpensive and satisfying dish, perfect as a side or a light main course.

🧂 Ingredients
- 3 large Leeks, white and light green parts only, cleaned and chopped
- 4 tbsp Olive oil
- 3 Eggs
- 2 cups Milk
- 1 cup Yellow cornmeal
- 0.75 cup White cornmeal
- 4 oz Feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp Butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Baking soda
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the leeks: Wash the leeks thoroughly to remove any dirt. Chop them and place them in a bowl of cold water, then drain.
💡 Tip: Leeks can hold a lot of dirt between their layers, so thorough washing is essential. - 2
Sauté the leeks: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the drained leeks, salt, and pepper. Sauté until softened and their volume has reduced, about 8-10 minutes. Set aside to cool.
💡 Tip: Don't overcook the leeks; they should be tender but not mushy. - 3
Make the batter: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs. Add the milk, remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, yellow cornmeal, white cornmeal, and baking soda. Mix well until combined.
💡 Tip: Using both yellow and white cornmeal adds depth to the texture and flavor. - 4
Add the cooled sautéed leeks and about half of the crumbled feta cheese to the batter. Mix gently.
💡 Tip: Reserve some feta cheese for topping. - 5
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish (approx. 9x13 inches) with parchment paper.
💡 Tip: Parchment paper makes for easy cleanup. - 6
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly with a spatula.
💡 Tip: Ensure the batter is spread evenly for consistent baking. - 7
Sprinkle the remaining feta cheese over the top of the batter. Dot with the small pieces of butter.
💡 Tip: The butter will melt and add richness to the top layer. - 8
Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
💡 Tip: Baking time may vary depending on your oven and the depth of the dish. - 9
Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing and serving warm.
💡 Tip: This dish is delicious served with a side salad or a dollop of yogurt.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the batter.
- ✓If you prefer a denser casserole, use slightly less milk.
- ✓This dish can also be made with spinach instead of leeks (Shapkat).
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini to the batter.
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of butter and olive oil for sautéing the leeks.
- Serve with a side of plain yogurt or sour cream.