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acamp7

Active member
I love the store-bought phyllo, don't get me wrong. Sometimes, though, when I want to make a quick supper - I don't always want to go through the work. Yes, store-bought phyllo is a lot of work even though it has the appearance of saving time. The thin sheets don't make much of a dent, and I lose time because I have to use more sheets and each sheet needs to be buttered, etc.

When I want to make it fast, I use homemade phyllo - this is best for stuff like tiropitakes and the like, that I can whip together fast and make in smaller batches. This is the recipe I use for homemade phyllo.

- 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup warm water

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.

2. Add in the olive oil and mix until the flour looks crumbly.

3. Slowly pour in the warm water while stirring with a spoon. Keep mixing until a smooth dough forms.

4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for at least 10 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic.

5. Place the dough back into the mixing bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

6. After 30 minutes, divide the dough into 8 or 10 equal pieces and roll each piece out into a thin sheet. Try to make it as thin as possible without tearing it.

7. Dust each sheet with a light coating of flour and stack them neatly on top of each other.

8. Use a sharp knife to trim the edges for an even rectangle shape.

9. Roll the stack of sheets into a tight roll, and then cut it into sections that match the size of your desired final product.
 
This is a good recipe it looks like. It's similar to something that I do.

I find that I don't like to use homemade phyllo for desserts and tend to reach for the store bought kind with the fine sheets.

During the pandemic, when there were shortages, I couldn't fond store-bought phyllo so started making it!
 
This is a good recipe it looks like. It's similar to something that I do.

I find that I don't like to use homemade phyllo for desserts and tend to reach for the store bought kind with the fine sheets.

During the pandemic, when there were shortages, I couldn't fond store-bought phyllo so started making it!
Thank you! I do a similar thing, and use this for savory pies, as opposed to desserts. I don't think the recipe even makes enough for my baklava recipe.
 

Can you use frozen vegetables for Greek dishes?

There are two Greek dishes that I enjoy a lot and like to make a lot - fasolakia and the baked vegetables with the variety.

It's not always realistic for me to make them, though, because of the vegetable situation.

Is it okay to use frozen veggies? These are washed and chopped - they're basically ready to go - so it would save me a lot of time!

fasolakia-greek-food.jpg

Salt Cod in Greek Cooking?

How is salt cod, or Bakaliaros, used in Greek cooking? I remember my grandmother using it and I forget for what...

Could anyone share what specific dishes in Greek cuisine feature salt cod as the key ingredient? How is it typically prepared and served in Greece? Are there any traditional recipes or unique cooking methods that highlight the flavor and texture of salt cod in Greek cooking? I know a lot of other cultures use it, too.

I believe understanding the culinary uses of salt cod in Greece could offer deeper insights into the country’s culture and traditions. Plus, it would be great to try and replicate some of these dishes at home!

Cumin in Greek Cooking?

When I was in Greece, I bumped into a "spanakopita" in like a turnover style dough. It didn't have cheese and was spiced with cumin. I hadn't realized people use Cumin in Greece until I tasted it in this dish. I was kind of confused.

Do people actually use cumin in Greek cooking? None of the old recipes I have mention it. Could it be a more modern influence?

Top herbal teas popular in Greece?

Could anyone share insights or recommendations on which herbal teas are the most popular or cherished in Greece? I'm particularly interested in teas that are unique to the region or have a special place in Greek culture and wellness practices.

Also, if you have any suggestions on where I might purchase these teas, especially if they're available online, that would be incredibly helpful! I'm eager to try making some of these teas at home and experiencing a taste of Greek herbal tradition.

Thank you in advance for your help! I’m looking forward to exploring your suggestions and hopefully discovering some new favorite teas.

Bougatsa Recipe - Delicious Breakfast!

When I was in Greece, I loved having bougatsa for breakfast. I don't have it much when I am back home so I decided to learn how to make it. Here's the recipe I use:

I do have a question, I find using the puff pastry the easiest. However, what do they use in Greece?

Dough:
  • 1 package (about 17.3 ounces) frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Custard:
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup fine semolina flour
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
  • Ground cinnamon, for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Custard Filling:
    • In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it's hot but not boiling.
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, semolina flour, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
    • Gradually pour about 1/4 of the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
    • Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining hot milk, whisking constantly.
    • Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a custard-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the Bougatsa Dough:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    • Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets onto a clean surface. Brush melted butter generously over one sheet of puff pastry.
    • Place the second puff pastry sheet on top of the buttered one. Brush the top with more melted butter.
    • Roll up the puff pastry sheets tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal portions.
  3. Assemble the Bougatsa:
    • Take one portion of the puff pastry and flatten it into a thin circle on a floured surface, using a rolling pin.
    • Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the cooled custard filling in the center of the pastry circle.
    • Fold the edges of the pastry circle over the custard filling, creating a sealed pouch. Place the filled bougatsa onto the prepared baking sheet.
    • Repeat this process with the remaining puff pastry portions and custard filling.
  4. Bake the Bougatsa:
    • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the bougatsa until the pastry is golden brown and crispy, about 25-30 minutes.
    • Remove the bougatsa from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
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