Arteflame Grilled Albanian Fërgesë with Peppers

Introduction

Fërgesë is a traditional Albanian dish known for its rich, creamy texture and smoky roasted peppers. Using the Arteflame grill, we elevate this dish by grilling the ingredients to perfection over open fire, infusing them with deep, smoky flavors. The Arteflame grill’s flat cooktop griddle ensures even cooking, while the center grill grate sears at over 1,000°F for exceptional texture. This recipe is a must-try for lovers of bold Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients

• 3 large red bell peppers
• 2 ripe tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the oiled napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
4. Allow the fire to build and heat the grill for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Grill the Peppers and Tomatoes

1. Place the whole red bell peppers directly on the hottest part of the flat cooktop griddle.
2. Rotate occasionally until the skin is charred and blistered.
3. Move them to the outer edge to continue cooking until soft.
4. Place the tomatoes on the hot griddle and cook until the skin starts to blister.
5. Remove the grilled vegetables and let them cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. Peel the charred skin off the peppers and tomatoes.
2. Chop them into small pieces and set aside.
3. On the flat griddle, melt butter, then add chopped onions and garlic.
4. Cook until soft and translucent.
5. Stir in the grilled peppers and tomatoes.
6. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Finish the Fërgesë

1. Gently fold in ricotta cheese and crumbled feta.
2. Stir until the cheese melts and combines with the mixture.
3. Let it cook for a few more minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Serve

1. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
2. Serve hot with freshly grilled bread or as a side with grilled meats.

Tips

• For extra smokiness, grill the peppers longer before peeling.
• Adjust cheese quantities for a creamier or firmer texture.
• Melted butter enhances the flavor more than olive oil.
• Use logs instead of charcoal for an authentic fire-grilled taste.
• Let the mixture sit for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.

Variations

1. Spicy Fërgesë: Add a finely chopped chili pepper for heat.
2. Meat Lover’s Fërgesë: Stir in grilled lamb or beef for a protein-rich version.
3. Smoky Eggplant Fërgesë: Replace one pepper with a grilled and mashed eggplant.
4. Mushroom Fërgesë: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
5. Herb-Infused Fërgesë: Mix in fresh basil and oregano for a fragrant twist.

Conclusion

Cooking Albanian Fërgesë on the Arteflame grill brings out rich, smoky flavors that make this dish irresistible. The flat cooktop ensures perfect caramelization of vegetables, creating a creamy, savory delight that pairs well with grilled bread or meats. Try this recipe today and savor the authentic taste of Albania.

Best pairings

• Grilled lamb or beef for a hearty meal.
• Freshly grilled flatbread for scooping up the creamy mixture.
• A glass of dry white wine or light red wine.
• Grilled vegetables like zucchini or eggplant.
• Olive tapenade or hummus as side dips.