Traditional Albanian Qull (Cornmeal and Chicken Porridge)
A Hearty Winter Dish to Warm the Soul
As winter sets in and the cold begins to creep into every corner, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm, hearty dish to bring life back to your home. Albanian cuisine is steeped in tradition, with recipes that speak to the soul and provide a sense of nourishment both physically and emotionally. Grains, like cornmeal, have always been a staple in Albanian households, offering not just sustenance but also a connection to the land and the seasons.
Qull me Miell Misri dhe Mish Pule (Cornmeal and Chicken Porridge) is a dish that embodies these qualities. The rich, creamy texture of the cornmeal, combined with tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and the crunch of walnuts, makes this dish perfect for a cold winter evening. It’s a meal that fills your home with warmth and your heart with the nostalgia of simpler times, reminding us of the beauty of traditional, soul-soothing foods.
- Chicken pieces (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup cornmeal
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tbsp 2–3 crushed walnuts
- 4 garlic 4–5 cloves, minced
- Salt (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp black or white pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 3 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and oregano.
- In a skillet, brown the chicken on medium heat until golden.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Add enough water or chicken broth to cover the chicken and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, until tender.
- 2
Make the Cornmeal Mixture- In a separate pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the cornmeal and all-purpose flour, stirring continuously until the mixture turns lightly golden and aromatic.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth (or water), whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- 3
Combine and Bake- Add the cooked chicken pieces, crushed walnuts, and lemon juice to the cornmeal mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish.
- In a small pan, melt an additional tablespoon of butter and stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes. Drizzle this over the top of the dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, until golden and bubbling.
NoteWhy You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Rustic and Nourishing: The combination of cornmeal, chicken, and walnuts creates a dish that’s filling yet wholesome.
2. Perfect for Winter: The warm, creamy texture and bold flavors make it the ultimate winter comfort food.
3. Packed with Flavor: Garlic, lemon, and butter add richness and depth to the dish, making every bite unforgettable.
4. Easy to Adapt: Make it spicier with extra red pepper flakes, or add more walnuts for a crunchier texture.
A Dish That Brings Tradition to the Table
When the winds howl and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing more comforting than gathering around a table with loved ones to enjoy a warm, homemade meal. Qull me Miell Misri dhe Mish Pule is a celebration of Albania’s culinary heritage, a dish that highlights how simple ingredients like grains, chicken, and garlic can be transformed into something extraordinary.
Whether you’re seeking a connection to your roots or just looking for the perfect dish to warm your home, this recipe is a must-try. Let it fill your kitchen with the rich aroma of tradition and your heart with the warmth of a truly soulful meal.
