Baked Lamb and Yogurt: A Traditional Albanian Recipe for All Occasions

Baked Lamb and Yogurt, known as Tavë Kosi, is a traditional Albanian dish. This recipe combines tender lamb with a creamy yogurt sauce, creating a rich and flavourful meal. Perfect for family gatherings, this dish serves four and takes about two hours to prepare. The combination of lamb and yogurt offers a unique taste that is both comforting and satisfying.

Lamb:

• 1½ lb (680 g) lamb
• 4 tablespoons (½ stick or 50 g) butter
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) rice
• Salt
• Pepper

Yogurt Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon flour
• 4 tablespoons (½ stick or 50 g) butter
• 2 lb (900 g) yogurt
• 5 eggs
• Salt
• Pepper

1. Cut the lamb into four serving pieces. Sprinkle each piece with salt and pepper.
2. Bake the lamb in a moderately-heated oven with half the butter. Baste the meat with its gravy occasionally.
3. When the meat is half-baked, add the rice. Remove the baking pan from the oven and set it aside.
4. Sauté the flour in butter until thoroughly mixed.
5. Mix yogurt with salt, pepper, and eggs until you get a uniform mixture. Stir in the flour-butter mix.
6. Add the sauce mixture to the baking pan and stir it with the meat pieces.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes. Serve hot.

Nutritional Values

This dish is a staple in Albanian cuisine, showcasing simple ingredients that come together to create a hearty meal. The use of yogurt not only adds creaminess but also balances the richness of the lamb. Enjoy this dish as a main course for a taste of Albania's culinary tradition.