Fërgesë me Mëlçi
Fërgesë me Mëlçi is a hearty and flavorful casserole originating from Kosovo, featuring tender liver cooked with a rich blend of peppers, tomatoes, onions, and cheese. It's a comforting dish often served with crusty bread.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Beef or chicken liver(cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 medium Onions(finely chopped)
- 1 large Red bell pepper(deseeded and chopped)
- 1 small Hot pepper (optional)(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(grated or finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Corn flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 500 g Feta cheese (or cottage cheese)(crumbled)
- 4 tablespoons Olive oil
- 250 ml Water
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Oregano (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped liver and sauté until browned on all sides. Remove the liver from the skillet and set aside.
💡 Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan; cook liver in batches if necessary. - 2
In the same skillet, add the chopped onions, bell pepper, and hot pepper (if using). Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
💡 Tip: Add a little more olive oil if the pan is dry. - 3
Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the corn flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- 5
Add the grated tomatoes, water, salt, pepper, and oregano (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 6
Return the browned liver to the skillet. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese and mix well until the cheese begins to melt and incorporate into the sauce.
💡 Tip: Ensure the cheese is evenly distributed. - 7
Pour the mixture into a baking dish (preferably a traditional clay dish, 'tavë dheu').
💡 Tip: A 9x13 inch baking dish works well. - 8
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- 9
Let it rest for a few minutes before serving hot with crusty bread.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a spicier dish, add more hot pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- ✓If using cottage cheese, drain off any excess liquid before adding.
- ✓The dish can also be prepared entirely on the stovetop by simmering until thickened and cheese is melted, though baking gives it a lovely crust.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a deeper tomato flavor.
- Include other vegetables like chopped zucchini or eggplant.
- Use lamb liver for a richer taste.