Gjyveç me Patate

Gjyveç me Patate Recipe from Albania - Meat and Potato Stew

Region / culture: Albania | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Gjyveç me Patate is a traditional Albanian dish that combines tender meat with flavorful potatoes, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, as it is both delicious and easy to prepare.

History

Gjyveç me Patate has been a staple in Albanian cuisine for generations. This dish is often served during holidays and celebrations, as it is a crowd-pleaser that is loved by all. The combination of meat and potatoes cooked together creates a rich and savory flavor that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

500 g of meat
1.5 kg of potatoes
4 to 5 tbsp of oil
1 onion
red pepper
1 tbsp of tomato sauce
1 bay leaf
salt, black pepper, parsley

How to prepare

Slice the meat and fry it with onions. Then, add tomato sauce, a pinch of salt, pepper, bay leaf, and enough water to cover the meat. Let it boil on low heat.
Clean and wash the potatoes. Cut them into round slices that are 1 cm thick. Toss them in oil.
In a casserole dish, place the meat on top of the potatoes.
Add salt, pepper, a little paprika, and finally, the meat juices.
Bake in the oven for 0.5 hour.
Remove the gjyveçi from the oven, transfer it to a plate, and sprinkle it with cooking juices and minced parsley.

Variations

You can add vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots to the dish for added flavor and nutrition.
You can use different types of meat such as chicken or lamb for a different twist on the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to slice the meat thinly to ensure it cooks evenly.

- Be sure to fry the meat with onions to enhance the flavor of the dish.

- Adding a bay leaf and parsley to the dish will add depth and complexity to the flavors.

- Be sure to cover the meat with enough water to ensure it cooks properly.

Serving Suggestions

Gjyveç me Patate can be served with a side of fresh salad or crusty bread.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to fry the meat with onions before adding it to the casserole dish.

- Baking the dish in the oven allows the flavors to meld together and creates a delicious final product.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor profile.

- You can use vegetable broth instead of water for a vegetarian version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Gjyveç me Patate can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Gjyveç me Patate in a decorative casserole dish and garnish with fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Gjyveç me Patate pairs well with a glass of red wine or a refreshing glass of lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Gjyveç me Patate can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Gjyveç me Patate contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Gjyveç me Patate contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Gjyveç me Patate contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Gjyveç me Patate contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Gjyveç me Patate is a good source of Vitamin C, Iron, and Potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains meat and potatoes, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Gjyveç me Patate is a balanced meal that provides a good amount of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and satisfying dish.

Summary

Gjyveç me Patate is a delicious and comforting Albanian dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its tender meat, flavorful potatoes, and rich spices, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her hometown in Albania. Maria was known for her delicious cooking, and she had promised to teach me how to make one of her favorite dishes, Gjyveç me Patate.

As we entered Maria's cozy kitchen, the aroma of onions and peppers sizzling in a pan filled the air. Maria smiled at me as she handed me an apron and began to explain the recipe.

"First, we chop the onions and peppers and sauté them in some olive oil until they are soft and fragrant," Maria instructed, her hands moving quickly and confidently as she worked.

I watched in awe as Maria added the diced tomatoes, potatoes, and a blend of herbs and spices to the pan. The colors and smells were intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final dish.

As the Gjyveç me Patate simmered on the stove, Maria shared the story of how she had learned to make this traditional Albanian dish from her grandmother. It was a recipe that had been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own twist to make it their own.

I listened attentively, soaking up every detail and technique that Maria shared with me. I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of my own culinary repertoire, a connection to the past and a way to keep my heritage alive.

As we sat down to enjoy the Gjyveç me Patate, the flavors exploded in my mouth, transporting me back to Maria's kitchen and the day I had learned to make this delicious dish. It was a moment I would never forget, a memory that would stay with me forever.

Since that day, I have made Gjyveç me Patate countless times, each batch a little different as I experiment with new ingredients and flavors. But no matter how many times I make it, the taste always brings me back to that summer day in Maria's kitchen, learning a recipe that has become a part of who I am.

And now, as I share this story with my own grandchildren, I hope that they too will find joy in cooking and carry on the tradition of making Gjyveç me Patate for generations to come. It is a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past and bring us together in the present.