Authentic Albanian Spicy Grilled Peppers with Feta (Speca me Gjizë)

Introduction

There is something undeniably magical about the combination of fire-roasted vegetables and cool, salty cheese. Originating from the heart of the Balkans, these Albanian Spicy Grilled Peppers with Feta—closely related to the traditional dish Speca me Gjizë—bring a rustic elegance to your backyard barbecue. The magic lies in the contrast: the smoky, charred skin of the peppers, blistered to perfection on a high-heat grill, giving way to a rich, savory filling of tangy feta and aromatic spices. While simple in its composition, this dish captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking, where high-quality ingredients are allowed to shine without unnecessary complexity. Whether you are using a flat-top Arteflame grill to achieve that perfect sear or a standard grate, the result is a creamy, spicy, and smoky delight that transports your taste buds straight to the Albanian coast. It is the perfect appetizer or side dish to elevate your outdoor cooking game.

Ingredients

• 6 to 8 Long green peppers (Anaheim, Cubanelle, or Hungarian Wax peppers work best)
• 8 oz Greek Feta cheese, high quality block
• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream (to bind the filling)
• 2 cloves Garlic, fresh and minced
• 3 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil, divided
• 1 tsp Red chili flakes (adjust based on heat preference)
• 1/2 tsp Dried oregano or fresh dill
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Spicy Feta Filling

1. In a medium mixing bowl, crumble the block of feta cheese into small chunks.
2. Add the minced garlic, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), red chili flakes, oregano, and one tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Mash the mixture with a fork until it creates a thick, creamy paste. You want it to be spreadable but still retain some texture from the feta crumbles.
4. Taste the mixture and add black pepper. Be cautious with salt, as the feta is naturally salty. Set the bowl aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Grill the Peppers

1. Preheat your Arteflame grill or standard grill to medium-high heat. You want a surface hot enough to blister the skins quickly.
2. Wash and dry the peppers thoroughly. Rub them lightly with the remaining olive oil to ensure an even char.
3. Place the whole peppers directly on the hot grill grate or flat cooktop.
4. Grill for 5-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skins are blistered and blackened on all sides and the flesh has softened.

Step 3: Steam and Peel (Optional but Recommended)

1. Remove the peppers from the grill and immediately place them in a bowl. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid.
2. Let them steam in their own heat for about 10 minutes. This loosens the skin, making them easier to peel.
3. Gently peel off the charred skin. It is okay if some specs of char remain; they add a smoky flavor.
4. Cut a slit lengthwise down each pepper, being careful not to cut all the way through, and gently remove the seeds and membranes.

Step 4: Stuff and Serve

1. Spoon the spicy feta mixture generously into the cavity of each roasted pepper.
2. If you prefer a warm filling, place the stuffed peppers back on the cooler outer edge of the grill for 2 minutes to warm the cheese through.
3. Arrange on a platter, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips

To master this dish, focus on the quality of your peppers and cheese. While bell peppers can be used in a pinch, they lack the thin skin and specific flavor profile required for authentic Albanian results; Anaheim or Cubanelle peppers offer the perfect balance of fleshiness and heat. When grilling, do not fear the char. The blackening of the skin is essential for imparting that deep, smoky flavor that cuts through the richness of the dairy. If you find the feta mixture too crumbly, adding a little more Greek yogurt or even a splash of olive oil will help create a velvety texture that stays inside the pepper. Finally, handle the roasted peppers gently after steaming; they will be very tender, and you want to keep them intact to hold that delicious filling. A little patience during the peeling process yields a much better mouthfeel.

Variations

This recipe is a beautiful canvas for culinary creativity. While the traditional version is a staple, you can easily adapt the filling to suit your palate or dietary needs. Here are a few popular ways to mix things up:

• Meat Lover’s Twist: Sauté ground lamb or beef with onions and mix it into the feta filling for a heartier, main-course version.
• Herb Infusion: Swap the oregano for fresh mint or dill to give the dish a brighter, fresher profile that pairs well with seafood.
• The Tomato Addition: In some regions, chopped sautéed tomatoes are added to the cheese mixture, creating a dish similar to Fergese.
• Mild & Creamy: For those sensitive to spice, omit the chili flakes and mix cream cheese with the feta for a milder, kid-friendly stuffing.
• Vegan Option: Utilize a high-quality almond-based ricotta or vegan feta substitute mixed with nutritional yeast to replicate the savory depth.

Best pairings

In Albania, a meal is rarely a solitary affair, and these peppers are meant to be shared alongside a hearty spread of complementary flavors. Because of the creamy and spicy nature of the dish, it pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats, particularly lamb chops or kofta kebabs, which are staples of Balkan cuisine. The acidity and saltiness of the feta cut through the fat of the meat perfectly. You also absolutely need a loaf of crusty, rustic bread or warm pita on the side to mop up any olive oil and stray bits of cheese filling. For a beverage pairing, a crisp, acidic white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Pinot Grigio helps cleanse the palate between bites. If you want to go truly traditional, serve this alongside a small glass of Raki to sip slowly as you enjoy the feast.

Conclusion

Mastering these Albanian Spicy Grilled Peppers with Feta transforms a simple vegetable side dish into the star of the show. It is a recipe that celebrates the primal joy of open-fire cooking, blending the charred, smoky essence of the grill with the timeless comfort of cheese and garlic. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue or looking to explore international cuisines on your Arteflame, this dish offers a perfect balance of texture and flavor. It is rustic enough for a casual family dinner yet elegant enough to serve to guests. By following these steps, you are not just making food; you are recreating a slice of Balkan culture that prioritizes fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Fire up the grill, gather your friends, and enjoy the savory, spicy delight of Speca me Gjizë.