RecipesAlbaniaPispili

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.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Servings6
DifficultyMedium
Pispili - Albania traditional dish

🧂 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. 1

    Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish (approx. 20x30 cm).

  2. 2

    Sauté the sliced leeks in olive oil until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

  3. 3

    In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and pepper.

  4. 4

    In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and yogurt. Then, stir in the crumbled feta cheese.

  5. 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. 6

    Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

  7. 7

    Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  8. 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.

🔄 Variations

  • 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.

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