Meatballs (Albanian Qofte të fërguara)

Albanian Qofte (meatballs) are amazing and one of Albania’s national dishes as well as a part of the Middle Eastern cuisine. Commonly made and fried in all parts of Albania mean that there are many different versions of the qofte recipe including versions that use mint or feta cheese. These little herby meatballs of delight are a tasty combination of lamb and herbs, seasoned with paprika, then gently fried until golden.

1 lb ground pork or beef
1 slice stale bread
1 small onion, finely grated
2 Tbsp. feta cheese, chopped
2 Tbsp. breadcrumbs
2 Tbsp. oil or melted butter, melted
1 Tbsp. parsley, chopped
sea salt
black pepper, freshly ground
mint
oregano
1 cup all-purpose flour, unbleached
1 cup oil olive oil

Soak bread in water and squeeze hard to drain. Add ground meat, bread crumbs, oil or melted butter, onion, parsley, salt, pepper, and mint.

Mix thoroughly, and form into 1" thick patties, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and oregano.

Roll in flour and fry in hot oil. Serve hot with French Fries or mashed potatoes.

Makes 4 servings.