Albanian BYREK TOUR - Making Balkan Stuffed Pastries | Tirana, Albania

ground meat

🥗Healthier: chopped vegetables

💰Cheaper: canned beans

Chopped vegetables provide a lighter option, while canned beans are cost-effective.

feta cheese

🥗Healthier: cottage cheese

💰Cheaper: ricotta cheese

Cottage cheese is lower in fat, and ricotta is often more affordable.

phyllo dough

🥗Healthier: whole wheat pastry

💰Cheaper: homemade dough

Whole wheat pastry adds fiber, while homemade dough can be less expensive.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil offers health benefits, while vegetable oil is budget-friendly.

Prepare the filling by sautéing chopped onion in olive oil until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add ground meat to the pan and cook until browned, stirring occasionally, about 7-10 minutes.

Mix in chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and season with salt and black pepper.

In a bowl, whisk together egg, yogurt, lemon juice, and minced garlic.

Lay out phyllo dough sheets on a clean surface, brushing each layer with olive oil.

Place a portion of the filling along one edge of the dough.

Roll the dough over the filling to create a log shape, sealing the ends.

Place the rolled byrek on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Brush the top with the egg mixture and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown, about 30-35 minutes.

Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens