Fërgesë Tirane (Pepper and cheese dish)

Ingredients:

• 5 roasted and diced red bell peppers
• 1 diced onion
• 150g feta cheese
• 400g diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• 20g flour
• 20g butter
• 40g Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pepper Mix:

   • Sweat the diced onion in a small amount of olive oil until softened (about 3 minutes), then set aside.
   • In the same pan, simmer the roasted bell peppers, diced tomatoes, and basil on medium to high heat for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens and most of the liquid evaporates. Mix in the onion and set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Cheese Mix:

   • In a separate small saucepan, melt the butter. Add the flour to form a roux.
   • Crumble in the feta cheese while stirring quickly until it melts and forms a thick mixture. Add the Greek yogurt and mix well.

3. Combine and Cook:

   • Mix the cheese and yogurt mixture into the pepper and tomato mixture. Season with chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
   • Divide the mixture into small clay dishes or an oven-safe dish.
   • Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 30 minutes until the top is slightly golden.

4. Serve:

   • Let the dish cool slightly before serving. It’s best enjoyed with crusty bread.