Pëkul

Pëkul is a traditional Albanian dish, typically prepared and consumed during the Easter holiday. It is a type of sweet bread, often made with a rich dough that can include eggs, butter, milk, and sugar. The dough is usually leavened and then baked, resulting in a soft, cake-like texture.

The preparation of pëkul often involves incorporating specific ingredients that contribute to its unique flavor and aroma. These can include ingredients like mastic, a resin with a pine-like scent, and mahlab, a spice derived from the seeds of a specific cherry species, both of which impart a distinct fragrant quality. Raisins and other dried fruits are also frequently added to the dough, providing pockets of sweetness and chewiness.

The appearance of pëkul can vary, but it is often shaped into a round loaf or braided. It may be decorated with egg yolks for a golden glaze or topped with a simple sugar icing. The process of making pëkul is often a family affair, with recipes passed down through generations, and it holds cultural significance as a symbol of celebration and renewal. It is enjoyed as a sweet bread, often served alongside coffee or tea.