Dive into the centuries-old tradition of olive oil production in Albania. Discover how local families manage small olive groves with dedication and care and produce high-quality extra virgin olive oil
History hasn’t been kind to Albania in recent centuries. Ruled for centuries by the Ottomans, the country only became independent in 1913 with the Treaty of London. It did not remain peaceful for long, because Albania was repeatedly crushed by the rival superpowers in both the First and Second World Wars. After the Second World War, the country became a satellite state of the then Soviet Union and Albania was effectively isolated. It had little or no contact with either the West or the Eastern Bloc. Only in 1991 did that situation end, and Albania has been a parliamentary democracy since then.
The consequence of this somewhat sad and chequered history is that it seems as if time has stood still. This is especially the case inland, because in the coastal areas the first tourists have already discovered the sometimes dazzling beauty of the country. Travel organizations are eagerly including Albania in their online travel guides.
The average living standard of Albanians is low, but that does not necessarily mean that most people are poor. Many families own small olive groves from which they have for centuries been producing their olive oil in a traditional way and with the greatest care.
No, don’t imagine the endless (and dreary) seas of olive trees in Albania, as is for example the case in Tunisia. There you can find almost 100 million trees waiting for the annual harvest. That olive oil is shipped abroad in 1000 liter IBC tanks. In Spain it is far too often mixed with Spanish olive oil and then exported as ‘Spanish’.
In Albania, almost everything is still small-scale. Most families have just enough trees to get through the year with enough olive oil. But in the mountains around the town of Berat and surrounding villages, the slopes are full of olive trees. The residents of the region produce much more olive oil than they need, and they sell that abundance to improve their standard of living and that of those around them.
But after centuries of isolation, it is not so easy for them to find the right ways to manage exports. After all, every middleman eats away at some of the profit margins. What people needed was a passionate importer with his heart in the right place. They found that in Aljeta, active in the Netherlands and Belgium.
Read more about us.
Would you like to try this traditionally produced olive oil and support the Albanian people at the same time? Order your Albanian olive oil here.
This olive oil bundt cake offers a delicious and healthy twist on a classic recipe. By combining the rich, smooth taste of extra virgin olive oil with the fresh flavor of lemon and the subtle sweetness of vanilla, you get a cake that is both light and flavorful. Perfect for any occasion, from festive gatherings to a cozy afternoon with coffee.
Garlic oil offers numerous health benefits and is easy to make yourself with our garlic oil recipe. Enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your dishes with our detailed guide and tips for garlic oil.
Looking for a refreshing and unique summer cocktail? Try this Melon & Olive Oil Cocktail! Combining the sweet juiciness of melon with the rich, smooth taste of olive oil, this cocktail is perfect for hot summer days. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a barbecue, this drink will impress your guests and keep them cool.
Discover the Aljeta Olive Oil Sprayer, pre-filled with 100ml of premium extra virgin olive oil. Achieve healthier meals with controlled oil usage, even distribution, and enhanced flavor absorption. Perfect for roasting, grilling, and salads, this reusable tool reduces calories and saves money. Learn how it can transform your cooking experience.
Are you looking for a flavorful and versatile sauce to elevate your dishes? Meet Ajvar, a traditional sauce from the Balkans that is gaining popularity. In this article, we not only share the rich history and health benefits of Ajvar, but also provide you with a step-by-step recipe to make this delicious sauce yourself. Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you will make your own Ajvar in no time with this simple recipe. Read on and discover how to add this flavor enhancer to your culinary repertoire!
Olive oil is a natural product often praised for its health benefits and rich flavor. But not all olive oil is of the same quality. In this article, we reveal the secrets behind the quality of olive oil, how to identify real extra virgin olive oil, and why the Olive Oil Institute is so important. Learn also about the fraud in the olive oil industry and why some supermarket oils do not meet the standard. Choose the best olive oil and enjoy the pure taste and health benefits.
Subscribe to be inspired with our latest products, deals, taste combinations and much more!
English 
Nederlands