Albanian Lamb and Yogurt Casserole

Ingredients

• 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) lamb shoulder, cut into chunks 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 500g (2 cups) Greek yogurt 500g (2 cups) Greek yogurt
• 4 eggs 4 eggs
• 50g (1/2 cup) breadcrumbs 50g (1/2 cup) breadcrumbs
• 50g (1/4 cup) butter, melted 50g (1/4 cup) butter, melted

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 4g
• Protein: 45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the lamb, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the lamb is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and eggs until smooth.
4. 4.
   Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Place the marinated lamb in the dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. 5.
   Pour the yogurt mixture over the lamb, ensuring it covers the meat completely.
6. 6.
   In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the yogurt layer.
7. 7.
   Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
8. 8.
   Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the lamb is tender.
9. 9.
   Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lamb — For the best results, choose boneless lamb shoulder and cut it into chunks. This will ensure tender and flavorful meat.
• Greek yogurt — Opt for full-fat Greek yogurt to achieve a creamy and rich texture in the casserole.

Tips & Tricks

• To add a hint of smokiness, you can sprinkle a small amount of smoked paprika over the casserole before baking.
• If you prefer a thicker yogurt layer, you can strain the Greek yogurt in a cheesecloth-lined sieve for a few hours before using it in the recipe.
• Serve Tavë kosi with a side of crusty bread or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Serving advice

Tavë kosi is best served hot, straight from the oven. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation advice

Present the Tavë kosi casserole in the baking dish it was cooked in, allowing the golden breadcrumb crust to be visible. Serve it family-style, allowing guests to scoop out portions onto their plates.