Tavë Kosi

Tavë Kosi

Tavë Kosi (TAH-vuh KOH-see)

Baked Lamb with Yogurt

Prep Time 20 min
📈 Difficulty Medium
👥 Servings
6
🔥 Calories 446 kcal

Tender pieces of lamb baked under a thick layer of seasoned yogurt and egg custard until golden and set. This elegant dish showcases the Kosovar love of combining dairy and meat.

Nutrition & Info

450 kcal per serving
Protein 32.0g
Carbs 12.0g
Fat 30.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ dairy ⚠ eggs

Equipment Needed

baking dish large skillet mixing bowl

Presentation Guide

Vessel: ceramic baking dish

Garnishes: fresh dill

Accompaniments: fresh salad, bread

Instructions

  1. 1

    Brown the lamb pieces in butter in a skillet until golden on all sides, seasoning with salt and pepper.

  2. 2

    Spread cooked rice in a greased baking dish and layer the browned lamb on top.

  3. 3

    Whisk together yogurt, eggs, and flour until smooth.

  4. 4

    Pour the yogurt mixture over the lamb, ensuring everything is covered.

  5. 5

    Bake at 180°C for fifty to sixty minutes until the yogurt custard is set and golden brown.

  6. 6

    Let rest for ten minutes before serving.

💡

Did You Know?

Tavë Kosi is shared with Albanian cuisine, but the Kosovar version often includes a rice base layer.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • baking dish
  • large skillet
  • mixing bowl

Garnishing

fresh dill

Accompaniments

fresh salad, bread

The Story Behind Tavë Kosi

Tavë Kosi reflects the deep pastoral heritage of Kosovo, where sheep herding has been central to life for centuries. The combination of lamb and yogurt in a single dish is an ingenious use of what the flocks provide. In Kosovo, this dish is considered refined home cooking, often prepared for honored guests and special occasions. The yogurt custard must be perfectly set — too runny is a mark of inexperience.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed special occasions, guest meals 📜 Origins: Ottoman era

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