Fërgesë

Fërgesë is a traditional Albanian dish. It is a one-pan vegetarian meal. Traditionally, this recipe uses bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, locally made salted cottage cheese (or feta cheese as a substitute), basil, butter, flour, and olive oil.

The vegetables are sautéed, while the butter and flour make a roux in a separate pan, and the cheese is set to melt over it. All the ingredients are mixed in small clay pots, seasoned, and baked in the oven. After the dish has slightly cooled down, it is served with crusty bread on the side.

Another version of this dish (named fërgesë me melçi) is created by adding chopped liver and garlic to the mixture. While the vegetarian version is mostly served as a side dish, the version prepared with meat is often served as the main course.