Fruit Berries Herbs – Shija e Veriut

Fruit, Berries & Herbs

Berries

Thanks to vast highland forests and Mediterranean bush areas, Mushrooms, Berries, Herbs, and Chestnuts grow extensively and spontaneously all over the territory of Puka, Fushë Arrëz, and Vau Dejës. In addition to this, local farmers have long been cultivating apples, cherries, persimmon and quince. These natural delicacies are collected and processed (mostly by women) in small, family-led laboratories that offer tasty jams, juices, dried fruits, and mushrooms, as well as much appreciated herb teas.

Jams & Juices

Jams and berry juices are ubiquitous in Pukë, Vau Dejës, and Fushë Arrës. Handcrafted with passion by small local businesses, mostly women-led, these delicacies are served in all the restaurants of the area, be it for breakfast or as a quick and energizing 100% local snack.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms are probably the most renowned product of Puka, Fushë Arrëz, and Vau Dejës in Albania. And their reputation in well deserved, given their strong taste and parfumes, thanks to the terroir and the extensive pine, beech, and oak forests: One of the best possible habitats for mushrooms, especially Porcini.

Mountain Tea

Mountain Tea (Çaji Mali), otherwise known as Sheperd’s Tea, is a herb tea made from Sideritis syriaca, a plant found in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Balkans, growing on rocky terroirs at an elevation of over 700 meters. Its tea presents a particularly floral and earthy flavour, much appreciated in Albania. Sideritis is used for spicing local dishes and considered one of the most effective natural antioxidants, especially indicated as a remedy for colds and sinusitis.