Pispili
A savory cornmeal pie, often featuring leeks or spinach, baked until golden and slightly crisp. It's a hearty and comforting dish, popular in various regions of Albania.
🧂 Ingredients
- 200 g Cornmeal (fine)
- 500 g Leeks(white and light green parts, thinly sliced)
- 3 large Eggs
- 150 g Feta cheese(crumbled)
- 150 ml Yogurt
- 50 ml Olive oil
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish (approx. 20x30 cm).
- 2
Sauté the sliced leeks in olive oil until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- 3
In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- 4
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and yogurt. Then, stir in the crumbled feta cheese.
- 5
Add the leek mixture to the dry ingredients and mix well. Pour the egg and yogurt mixture over the leek and cornmeal mixture and stir until just combined.
- 6
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- 7
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- 8
Let cool slightly before cutting into squares and serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of butter when sautéing the leeks.
- ✓If you prefer a softer texture, you can add a bit more yogurt or milk.
- ✓This dish can also be made with spinach instead of leeks. Sauté spinach until wilted before adding to the cornmeal mixture.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add chopped dill or parsley for extra freshness.
- Incorporate other cheeses like ricotta or cottage cheese along with the feta.
- For a meatier version, add cooked ground lamb or beef to the leek mixture.