Nena

Called nena in the local language, this plant (Chenopodium bonus-henricus) refers to a type of wild spinach that has been gathered traditionally between late spring and summer by the indigenous Kelmendi community living in the eponymous mountainous stretch along Albania and Montenegro’s borderlands.

The plant is distinguished by broad, triangular or diamond-shaped leaves and tiny, green flowers, while the flavors are intensely spinach-like, earthy, and mineral. High in iron and chlorophyll, this plant is recommended for people with anemia, and its succulent leaves are commonly cooked and used as filling for byrek and laknur (typical Albanian pies) along with butter, cheese, or cream.

Prepared by local Kelmendi women, byrek with nena leaves has traditionally been reserved for Sundays.