Recipe
Tavë Kosi (Baked Lamb with Yogurt & Eggs)
A classic Albanian baked lamb dish with a tangy yogurt and egg topping that sets into a golden crust.
Ingredients
Method
20 mins prep50 mins cook70 mins total
Heat oven to 190°C (170°C fan).
Season lamb with salt and pepper, then brown in a little butter until lightly coloured.
Transfer lamb to a baking dish and spread evenly.
In a saucepan, melt remaining butter and stir in flour to form a light roux.
Whisk yogurt and eggs together in a bowl, then gradually whisk in the roux until smooth.
Season with oregano, garlic (if using), salt, and pepper.
Pour yogurt mixture over the lamb in the baking dish.
Bake for 40–50 minutes until golden on top and just set in the centre.
Rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Do not overbake; remove once the yogurt layer is just set to keep it creamy.
Rest for 10 minutes before serving so the bake slices neatly.
Serve with simple salad or crusty bread to balance the richness.
About this recipe
Tavë Kosi is one of Albania’s most iconic comfort dishes: tender lamb baked beneath a rich yogurt-and-egg custard.
The top bakes golden while the inside stays creamy and savoury, making it ideal for family meals or special weekend cooking.
