Fërgesë me Melçi Recipe of Albania | Traditional Albanian Fërgesë Recipe with Liver

Fërgesë is a beloved traditional dish from Albania, known for its rich flavors and comforting warmth. Often served in Albanian households, especially in the central and southern regions, fërgesë combines simple ingredients to create a delicious and hearty meal. It is typically prepared in two main varieties: Fërgesë Tirane me Piperka (Tirana-style with peppers) and Fërgesë me Melçi (with liver), offering both vegetarian and meat-based options.

Fërgesë is more than just a recipe—it’s a cultural expression of Albanian hospitality and cuisine. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a main course, it captures the essence of traditional Balkan cooking. Perfect for family gatherings or simple dinners, fërgesë continues to be a cherished comfort food that connects Albanians to their roots.

Fërgesë me Melçi is a classic food which is very popular in central Albania. It is a rich, flavorful dish made with liver, peppers, tomatoes, and cheese. The liver adds depth and richness, while the creamy cheese balances the spices and vegetables. This dish reflects the rustic and resourceful nature of Albanian cooking, where simple, locally available ingredients are transformed into comforting meals. Fërgesë me Melçi is not only a delicious traditional food but also a symbol of Albanian hospitality. It is often served as a main course during family gatherings or special occasions, accompanied by warm bread or cornbread, and sometimes a fresh salad. Here is a recipe of Fërgesë me Melçi of Albania.

Here is another recipe of Albania for you:

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Ingredients of Fërgesë me Melçi of Albania (Serves 4)

• 500g beef or veal liver (cleaned and cut into small cubes)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion (finely chopped)
• 3–4 bell peppers (preferably red and green, sliced)
• 2 ripe tomatoes (peeled and chopped) or 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 200g cottage cheese or ricotta (or Albanian gjizë, if available)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Making Process of Fërgesë me Melçi

1. Prepare the Liver

• Rinse the liver and remove any membranes or veins. Cut it into small cubes.
• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat In a frying pan.
• Add the liver cubes to the oil when it is hot and fry for 4–5 minutes until browned, but take care it is not overcooked. Set the cooked liver aside.

2. Sauté Vegetables

• Take  a large pan and heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
• When the oil is hot, add chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent.
• Add minced garlic and sliced bell peppers. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until the peppers soften.

3. Add Tomatoes

• Stir in the chopped tomatoes or tomato sauce.
• Cook on medium heat for 10–12 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the vegetables are tender.

4. Combine Liver and Sauce

• Return the liver to the pan with the tomato and pepper mixture.
• Add salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes to absorb flavors.

5. Add Cheese and Bake

• Lower the heat and gently stir in the cottage cheese or ricotta.
• Mix until the cheese melts and blends with the sauce.
• For a traditional finish, transfer everything into a clay or oven-safe dish.
• Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15–20 minutes until the top is slightly golden.

Serving Procedure of Fërgesë me Melçi

• Serve Fërgesë me Melçi hot, directly from the baking dish if possible.
• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for added freshness.
• Best enjoyed with warm crusty bread or cornbread on the side.
• It pairs well with a simple green salad or pickled vegetables.

This hearty and traditional dish reflects Albania’s rustic cuisine and is perfect for a nourishing family meal.

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Here are some Frequently ASked Questions (FAQ) about Fërgesë me Melçi

FAQ 1 : What is Fërgesë me Melçi?

Fërgesë me Melçi is a traditional Albanian dish made with liver (usually beef or veal), bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, and soft cheese such as gjizë (Albanian cottage cheese). It is typically baked and served hot as a flavorful and hearty meal.

FAQ 2 : Can I use chicken liver instead of beef or veal liver?

Yes, you can use chicken liver instead of beef or veal liver. While the flavor will be slightly different—milder and softer in texture—it’s still a delicious and acceptable variation.

FAQ 3 : What kind of cheese is used in Fërgesë me Melçi?

Traditionally, gjizë (Albanian cottage cheese) is used, but you can also use ricotta or farmer’s cheese as alternatives. The cheese gives the dish its creamy texture and balances the richness of the liver.

FAQ 4 : Is Fërgesë me Melçi spicy?

No, Fërgesë me Melçi is not typically spicy. It is seasoned with basic ingredients like salt, pepper, and paprika for flavor. However, you can add chili flakes or hot paprika if you prefer a spicier version.

FAQ 5 : What can I serve with Fërgesë me Melçi?

Fërgesë me Melçi is commonly served with warm bread (especially crusty or homemade bread), cornbread, or rice. It also pairs well with pickled vegetables or a simple green salad.