Qofte me Patate dhe Gjizë
Albanian Meatballs with Potatoes and Cottage Cheese
Savory meatballs made with a blend of ground meat, mashed potatoes, and creamy cottage cheese (gjizë), seasoned with herbs and spices, then pan-fried or baked until golden brown.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Ground lamb or beef
- 200 g Mashed potatoes(cooled, from boiled potatoes)
- 150 g Cottage cheese (Gjizë)(drained if very wet)
- 1 large Egg
- 1 small Onion(finely grated or minced)
- 1 tbsp Fresh mint(chopped)
- 1 tbsp Fresh parsley(chopped)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil or vegetable oil(for frying)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, mashed potatoes, cottage cheese (gjizë), egg, grated onion, chopped mint, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
- 2
Mix all ingredients thoroughly with your hands until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, which can make the meatballs tough.
- 3
Shape the mixture into small, uniform meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get about 16-20 meatballs.
- 4
Heat the olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- 5
Carefully place the meatballs in the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.
- 6
Brown the meatballs on all sides, turning them gently, for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have a nice golden-brown crust.
- 7
Alternatively, you can bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- 8
Drain any excess oil and serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the mashed potatoes are cooled to avoid cooking the egg prematurely.
- ✓Grated onion releases more flavor than chopped.
- ✓For a lighter version, bake the meatballs instead of frying.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of dried oregano or thyme to the meatball mixture.
- Serve with a side of plain yogurt or a fresh tomato salad.
- For extra flavor, mix in a tablespoon of breadcrumbs if the mixture seems too wet.