Pastërma
Cured Dried Meat (Beef Pastrami/Bresaola-style)
Yes, keto as served. About 2g net carbs per serving, lower than 8 in 10 Albanian dishes.
What it is
Thinly sliced, air-dried, and cured beef, typically seasoned with a blend of spices like paprika and fenugreek. Served as a cold appetizer or snack, showcasing the rich flavors developed during the curing process.
Key ingredients
Cured beef, salt, paprika, fenugreek, garlic, black pepper.
Optional tweaks
Ensure no sugary glazes or dips are served with it. Request no bread or crackers.
Say this to the waiter (Albanian)
Pa glazura apo salca me sheqer, ju lutem. Dhe pa bukë apo krakerë.
No sugary glazes or dips, please. And no bread or crackers.
Watch out for
Sugary curing agents (uncommon for traditional pastërma, but check for modern variations); being served with bread/crackers.
Macros are estimates for a typical serving and vary by restaurant. Confirm ingredients with staff, especially if you have allergies. Our ingredient lists are generated automatically and describe how a dish is typically made.
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