Albania Food
Explore Albania Food: Local Food Products & Traditional Dishes
Albanian food is one of the Mediterranean’s hidden gems. Located in Southeast Europe, Albania’s cuisine blends local traditions with Greek, Turkish, Italian, and Balkan influences. The result is a comforting, flavorful mix of grilled meats, savory pastries, fresh vegetables, yogurt-based sauces, and strong seasonal ingredients.
We’ve spent quite a bit of time in Albania. To maximize our enjoyment, we conducted a fair amount of research about Albanain food. We’ve compiled a summary of the information we collected below so you can start enjoying the traditional food as soon as you arrive!
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Local Food Products in Albania
Albania has one officially recognized PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) food product: Mishavina, a traditional cheese from the northern Kelmend region.
Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)
Mishavina
Mishavina is a semi-hard cheese made primarily from sheep’s milk. It is produced in the Kelmendi Alps by local communities using centuries-old techniques. This mountain cheese was the first Albanian product awarded PDO status and is prized for its sharp, earthy flavor and artisanal quality.
Traditional Dishes in Albania
Albania’s traditional dishes are hearty, rustic, and rich in Mediterranean character. They reflect the country’s regional diversity and cultural influences—from Ottoman baking techniques to Italian-style sauces.
Tave Kosi
Tavë Kosi is widely considered the national dish of Albania. It’s a baked casserole made with lamb (or sometimes chicken), rice, and a tangy mixture of yogurt and eggs. This dish is especially popular in Berat, where it originated, and reflects Ottoman-era flavors.
Tavë Kosi at Homemade Food Lili was one of the highlights of our stay in Berat.
Fërgesë
Fërgesë is a rich and comforting stew made with roasted red peppers, tomatoes, onions, and creamy feta cheese. It’s sometimes prepared with liver or beef, but vegetarian versions are common as well. We enjoyed this dish in Berat, served with fresh bread and local wine.
Burani
Burani is a simple yet flavorful vegetarian dish made with fried eggplant layered with garlicky yogurt and olive oil. It’s often seasoned with mint or dill and served at room temperature—a refreshing option on warm summer days.
Byrek
Byrek is a flaky pastry filled with savory ingredients such as cheese, spinach, meat, or leeks. Variants of byrek are found across the Balkans, but Albania’s version is distinctive for its crispy texture and generous use of dairy. It’s a staple snack sold in bakeries and cafes across the country.
FAQs About Albania Food
What is traditional Albanian food?
Traditional Albanian cuisine often features grilled meats, stews, and savory baked goods. Beef and veal are the most commonly consumed meats, followed by lamb and pork. In mountainous areas, smoked meats, pickled vegetables, and hearty breads are more common.
What is the national dish of Albania?
Tavë Kosi is Albania’s national dish. This baked lamb and rice casserole, made with a yogurt-egg mixture, is most closely associated with the city of Berat and is a must-try for visitors.
Is Albanian food similar to Greek food?
Albanian cuisine shares similarities with Greek food due to regional overlap and shared ingredients. You’ll find many dishes that include feta cheese, olives, olive oil, and fresh salads. However, Albanian recipes often have a distinct spice profile and preparation style that sets them apart.