Elbasan is a traditional Albanian dish made by roasting pan-boiled lamb in a yoghurt sauce. It takes its name from Elbasan, a city in the Republic of Albania. Elbasan pan also found a special place in the Ottoman palace kitchen. Enjoy your meal!
Cut the boneless lamb arm into chunks at your butcher shop. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil and butter in a cast iron pan and put the meat in the pot. When one side of the meat is browned and sealed (about 3-4 minutes), turn it over and seal the other sides.
Add the shallots to the meat, turn them 1-2 times and sauté together for 2-3 minutes. Add enough hot water and salt to cover them by 4-5 inches and cook on low heat for 45-50 minutes.
Take the egg yolks in a separate bowl and add the yogurt. Take 1 glass of the broth from the cooked meat and add it to the yogurt sauce and mix well. The broth should be warm.
Take the meat cooked in a baking dish, preferably a metal tray. Pour the yogurt mixture over the meat. Bake in the oven at 180 degrees for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
You can take the Elbasan pan from the oven and let it rest for 5-6 minutes, then slice and garnish with finely chopped parsley and serve it with rice pilaf or mashed potatoes. Bon Appetit!
Note: You can also use coarsely chopped onions instead of shallots.
Keep in mind: You can click on each ingredient to find other recipes that use that ingredient.
Lamb Meat:
Lamb meat is rich in essential nutrients like quality protein, iron, Vitamin B12, and zinc. Its high iron content is crucial for oxygen transport and energy production, helping prevent anemia. Vitamin B12 is vital for nervous system health and red blood cell formation, while zinc supports the immune system. Lamb pairs wonderfully with herbs like rosemary and thyme, vegetables such as potatoes and artichokes, and complements traditional dishes with rice or bulgur.
Shallot:
Shallots, with their sweet and subtly pungent flavor, are a culinary staple. Rich in antioxidants (especially quercetin), they can support heart health and help regulate blood sugar levels. Their potassium and sulfur compounds are beneficial for the circulatory system. They pair perfectly with salad dressings, marinated meats, fish dishes, and delicate sautéed vegetables. Frequently used in French cuisine.
Strained Yogurt:
Strained Yogurt is a thick, protein-rich dairy product obtained by removing its whey. Its high protein content is excellent for muscle development and sustained satiety. The straining process can lower lactose levels, potentially making it easier to digest for some. It's a good source of probiotics that support gut microbiota and calcium essential for strong bones. It pairs perfectly with garlic, olive oil, and fresh mint in savory appetizers, or with honey and fruits for breakfast or dessert.
Butter:
Butter is a rich, flavorful fat derived from milk. It contains fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K2, along with healthy fatty acids, serving as an energy source. It's easily digestible. Butter enhances the taste of meals and rice dishes, is spread on bread, or used in sauces. It's indispensable for breakfast tables and various recipes.
Liquid Oil:
Liquid oils (sunflower, olive, etc.) are essential kitchen ingredients that add flavor to dishes and contain healthy unsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E. Ideal for frying, salad dressings, baking, and sautéing. They pair perfectly with vegetables, meats, legumes, and grains. They offer easy cooking.
Egg Yolk:
Egg yolk is rich in protein, choline (critical for brain and liver health), vitamins D and A, and powerful antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin. It notably supports eye health, contributes to bone development, and strengthens cognitive functions. Its healthy fat content provides a sense of satiety. It's an excellent binder and flavor enhancer in savory sauces like béchamel, mayonnaise, and Hollandaise, as well as in sweet applications like pastry creams.
Flour:
Flour is a fundamental foodstuff obtained by grinding grains. It provides our body with a long-lasting energy source, especially through complex carbohydrates. Varieties like whole wheat flour, thanks to their high fiber content, support digestive health, provide a feeling of fullness, and help stabilize blood sugar levels. It also contains essential B vitamins (especially B1, B3, B9) and important minerals such as iron and magnesium, which are crucial for nervous system functions, energy production, and blood formation. It is versatile in the kitchen; forming the base for baked goods like bread and pastries when combined with milk, eggs, and yeast, while also being used to thicken sauces or create harmonious flavors with vegetables.
Garlic:
Garlic, thanks to its allicin compound, offers strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can boost the immune system, increasing resistance against illnesses. Furthermore, it contributes to cardiovascular health by helping regulate blood pressure and balance cholesterol levels. Widely used in traditional medicine, garlic is also known for its digestive support effects. An indispensable ingredient in meat dishes, vegetable sautés, and Mediterranean cuisine, it pairs wonderfully with herbs like rosemary and thyme.
Thyme:
Thyme, with components like thymol and carvacrol, possesses strong antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It provides a soothing effect, particularly for respiratory ailments such as coughs and sore throats. It aids the digestive system by helping reduce gas and bloating. It is also a rich source of antioxidants, strengthening the immune system. An indispensable ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, thyme pairs perfectly with red meat, chicken, fish, and vegetables. Its flavor is further enhanced with olive oil and lemon.
Dry Basil:
Dried basil aids digestion and alleviates gas issues. Its essential oils have a stress-reducing effect. Thanks to its antioxidant properties, it helps prevent cell damage. It pairs perfectly with tomatoes, olive oil, and garlic. It can be used as a flavor enhancer in soups, pasta dishes, and salads.
Powdered Red Pepper:
Ground Red Pepper, due to its capsaicin content, can boost metabolism and aid in fat burning. Rich in powerful antioxidants and Vitamin C, it may exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. It adds flavor to a wide range of dishes, from legumes and meat to soups and vegetable-based delights.
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