A Taste of Albanian: How to Create Authentic Qofta at Home

Essential Kitchen Tools for Albanian Cooking

Before we dive into making authentic Qofta, it’s important to have the right tools on hand. Here are some essential kitchen tools for Albanian cooking:

1. Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients and marinating meats.
2. Baking Tray: Ideal for roasting potatoes and baking Qofta.
3. Grater: Useful for grating vegetables and cheese.
4. Sharp Knife: For chopping herbs and vegetables with ease.
5. Meat Thermometer: To ensure your meatballs are cooked to perfection.

Having these tools will make the cooking process smoother and help you achieve authentic results.

Ingredients for Qofta

The Qofta:

• 500g ground meat (beef, lamb, or a mix)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg (to bind the mixture)
• Breadcrumbs (optional, for texture)

Making the Mint and Dill Yogurt Sauce:

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)

For the Salad:

• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cucumber, diced
• Olive oil and vinegar for dressing
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Roasted Potatoes:

• Salt, pepper, and paprika for seasoning
• 500g potatoes, cut into wedges
• Olive Oil

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Qofta

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the egg and mix until everything is well incorporated. If the mixture is too wet, add breadcrumbs to achieve a firmer texture.
2. Shape the mixture into small oval meatballs or patties, approximately the size of a golf ball. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Step 2: Roast the Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. In a separate bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika until evenly coated.
3. Spread the potatoes on a baking tray and place them in the oven alongside the Qofta. Roast for about 30-35 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Step 3: Make the Mint and Dill Yogurt Sauce

1. In a bowl, mix the plain yogurt with chopped mint, dill, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and refrigerate until serving.

Step 4: Prepare the Salad

1. In a salad bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes and diced cucumber. Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar, and season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine.

Step 5: Cook the Qofta

Bake the Qofta in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 70°C (160°F) and are nicely browned.

Plating Your Authentic Albanian Meal