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dimi_pat

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Now that the holidays are winding down, I realize that I haven't been paying attention to my health and have been eating a lot of really decadent foods. I have also gained five pounds. So, I plan to eat a lot lighter after new Year's is over. I made a list of some great foods to focus on.

Greek Salad:
Greek salad is a staple in traditional Greek cuisine. It is known for its simplicity, freshness, and nutritional value. A Greek salad typically consists of lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, feta cheese, and kalamata olives, all drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice. This salad is a great way to add more vegetables to your diet and start your meal on a healthy note.

Grilled Fish:
Greek cuisine is famous for its seafood dishes. Fish is a great source of lean protein, omega-3 fats, and other essential vitamins and minerals. Grilled fish is a healthy option that can be flavored with a variety of Greek spices and herbs, such as oregano, dill, and thyme. Add a side of roasted or grilled vegetables, and you have a delicious and healthy meal.

Lentil Soup:
Lentil soup is another staple in Greek cuisine. It is a hearty and healthy soup that is loaded with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. Lentil soup is easy to make, and you can add various vegetables and spices, such as onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. It is a perfect meal for those cold winter evenings, and it keeps you full for hours.

Stuffed Vegetables:
Stuffed vegetables are another popular Greek dish that is both healthy and flavorful. Greek stuffed vegetables can be made with various vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchinis, and tomatoes. The filling usually consists of rice, herbs, onions, tomatoes, and other vegetables. You can add some feta cheese on top for extra flavor. They are perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Greek Yogurt:
Greek yogurt is a healthy and delicious alternative to regular yogurt. It is low in calories and high in protein, making it a perfect snack or meal replacement. Greek yogurt can be used for various dishes such as sauces, dips, and even desserts. You can add some honey, nuts, or fruits to add extra flavor to your Greek yogurt.

greek-yogurt.jpg
 
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I agree with all this. I would add:

Horta - Boiled Greens:

Horta is a traditional Greek dish that is made by boiling greens such as dandelion leaves, spinach, kale, or Swiss chard. Horta is incredibly easy to prepare, and you only need to boil the greens in water for a few minutes until they are tender. You can then add some olive oil, lemon juice, and salt to the mix to enhance the flavor.

Greek Cabbage Salad

The Greek cabbage salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The ingredients used in this salad include shredded cabbage, and maybe other vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and feta cheese if I feel like adding them. It's great as a standalone meal or pair it with some grilled chicken or chickpeas for a complete and balanced dish.

Souvlaki

Souvlaki is a classic Greek dish that consists of skewered meat and vegetables that are grilled to perfection. You can use chicken, beef, lamb, or pork for your protein source, and add vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms to the skewers.
 

List of Different Greek Cooking Techniques

I hope you're all doing well! I've recently developed a deep appreciation for Greek cuisine and I'm eager to expand my cooking skills in this area. However, I'm realizing that I might be missing out on some traditional Greek cooking techniques that are essential for authentic dishes.

Could anyone kindly provide me with a list of cooking techniques commonly used in Greek cuisine? Whether it's grilling, baking, braising, or something more specific to Greek cooking, I'm eager to learn! Any insights, tips, or favorite methods would be greatly appreciated. Looking forward to your responses!

Here's what I can think of so far:

  • Frying - usually in olive oil, right? Things like Greek fries and kourabedies come to mind is being fried.
  • Grilling - souvlaki, chicken, etc
  • Sandwiches - gyros, making "toast" that you see on menus in Greece
  • Braising - like braised lamb?
  • On the spot - Lamb, goat
  • Baking - desserts and savory dishes
What have I missed?

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!

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.

What foods go best with ouzo?

I am curious - what goods go best with Ouzo? Traditionally, I don't actually pay attention.

From my understanding, Ouzo is traditionally enjoyed with small plates, similar to tapas, known as "mezedes" in Greece. Yet, I’m eager to hear from those who have either traveled to Greece or have an in-depth knowledge of Greek cuisine about what specific dishes you think would pair best with Ouzo. Are there specific flavors or types of dishes (seafood, meats, vegetables) that enhance the experience of sipping Ouzo?

Tips to Prevent Phyllo from Drying Out?

I am not new with working with phyllo.

Lately, and I don't know why, the phyllo has been during out as I work with it. It's always store bought phyllo and it may be another brand than what I normally use, but I don't see how that could possibly make a difference.e Perhaps I am working slower. Maybe my kitchen is dryer.

All I know is that I would love some tips on how to prevent the phyllo from drying out! I asked around and people say to keep a wet towel over it. I tried that and the phyllo stuck to the towel so I am obviously missing an important detail.
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