Albanian Byrek

Indulge in the rich, flaky layers of Albanian Byrek, a timeless savory pie that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. This traditional dish features delicate handmade dough sheets, lovingly layered and filled with a hearty blend of sautéed spinach, creamy feta cheese, and a touch of black pepper for subtle spice. Brushed with melted butter and baked to golden perfection, the Byrek boasts a beautifully crisp exterior that complements its tender, flavorful interior. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this classic recipe is perfect for family dinners, parties, or a satisfying snack. With simple ingredients like flour, olive oil, and fresh produce, this authentic Albanian Byrek is a celebration of comfort food and culinary tradition.

Nutriscore Rating: 62/100

Prep Time:60 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:100 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 500 grams all-purpose flour
• 250 milliliters water
• 60 milliliters olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 400 grams spinach
• 250 grams feta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 50 grams butter
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add water while mixing to form a dough. Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic.

Step 2

Divide the dough into 10 equal portions, roll each into a ball, and cover with a damp cloth. Let them rest for 30 minutes.

Step 3

In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Season with black pepper and remove from heat. Allow it to cool.

Step 4

In a bowl, crumble the feta cheese and mix it with the egg. Add the cooled spinach mixture and stir to combine.

Step 5

On a lightly floured surface, roll out each dough ball into a very thin sheet, about the size of your baking pan (approximately 30-35 cm in diameter).

Step 6

Lightly grease the baking pan with olive oil or butter, and layer 5 of the rolled-out sheets on the bottom, brushing each with melted butter before adding the next.

Step 7

Spread the spinach and feta filling evenly over the layered sheets.

Step 8

Cover the filling with the remaining 5 sheets, brushing each with melted butter as you layer. Tuck the edges neatly into the pan.

Step 9

Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Score the top layers of the dough lightly with a knife to create portion-sized cuts, but do not cut all the way through.

Step 10

Bake the Byrek for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Step 11

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1517.6 grams (1517.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3476

Total Fat 159.10g	204%
Saturated Fat 65.90g	330%
Polyunsaturated Fat 8.80g
Cholesterol 340mg	113%
Sodium 5933mg	258%
Total Carbohydrate 401.70g	146%
Dietary Fiber 20.30g	73%
Total Sugars 3.10g
Protein 99.10g	198%

Vitamin D 48IU	240%
Calcium 1604mg	123%
Iron 31mg	169%
Potassium 3046mg	65%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 41.7%

Protein: 11.5%

Carbs: 46.8%