1 - 6 of 6 Posts

knicks_fan87

Active member
One of my favorite dishes to order at the taverna is the pork chop, but I can never seem to replicate this beauty at home. Someone please help!!

brizola.jpg
 
This is a tough one....and I feel like it's all in the cut of the meat. Meat in Greece is usually local and very high quality. Try finding a really good butcher, and splurge on a really nice piece of pork. Good luck!
 
  • Like
Reactions: Trapakoolos
One of my favorite dishes to order at the taverna is the pork chop, but I can never seem to replicate this beauty at home. Someone please help!!

View attachment 234
By replicate, do you just want to know how to season it before grilling? I simply sprinkle with oregano and garlic powder and when done I squeeze lemons on top. Mine looks like the picture, but I'm sure it doesn't TASTE like what we'd get at a Taverna in Greece. There's something about the freshness of the food in Greece that can't be replicated here in the US.
 
  • Like
Reactions: blopez34
By replicate, do you just want to know how to season it before grilling? I simply sprinkle with oregano and garlic powder and when done I squeeze lemons on top. Mine looks like the picture, but I'm sure it doesn't TASTE like what we'd get at a Taverna in Greece. There's something about the freshness of the food in Greece that can't be replicated here in the US.
So true, it is about the freshness of the meat. This seasoning sounds amazing though!
 
So true, it is about the freshness of the meat. This seasoning sounds amazing though!
Amazing? I feel so uncreative just using oregano and garlic powder on most things I cook. Although when I make chicken pilaf I simply put in cinnamon.
 
The meat is probably super fresh in Greece. I would try marinating them for at least two hours in a ladolemono dressing (oil, lemon, and spices) before grilling them, though. I find that a marinade like that is used a lot in Greece. A simple recipe: 1/2 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, one 1 minced garlic clove, salt and pepper to taste. Pulse in a blender or food processor, then pour over the pork chops to marinate them.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Joni T.

Traditional Greek soups in Greece?

Most of the Greeks I know are from the United States - so it's been a few generations since a lot of them spent extended time in Greece.

From what I understand, Greek cuisine kind of changes. From what I can tell, in the United States, the most popular soup is Egg and Lemon soup (avgolemono) but in Greece, I don't see to as much or rather, hear of it as much.

What are the most popular soups in Greece?

Best meze to serve at Easter?

What is the best Greek meze to serve for Greek Easter? I want dishes that will wow my guests and make this Easter unforgettable. I’m looking for meze that are both traditional and have that ‘wow’ factor in terms of visual appeal and taste. I’d appreciate if you could share your favorites and perhaps some personal tips or recipes that make them stand out.

Here’s what I’m considering so far, but I’d love your input:
  • Tzatziki - A refreshing yogurt, cucumber, and garlic dip.
  • Spanakopita - Hearty spinach and feta pie encased in flaky pastry.
  • Dolmadakia (Stuffed Grape Leaves) - A tangy and herb-infused delight.
  • Feta cheese. A classic - I sometimes drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano.
  • Olives. No meze spread is complete without olives.
What else should I put out? Or is that enough? We're having about 20 people.

No Meat Dolmades (Stuffed Grape Leaves) Recipe

It has taken me a long time to get vegetarian dolmades to the point where I enjoy them. Here is my recipe. It uses a lot of oil, so strict fasters shouldn't eat them. But most people aren't super strict so I would even say these are good for lent!

Ingredients:​

  • 1 jar of grape leaves (about 60-70 leaves)
  • 1 cup short-grain rice
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Water

Instructions:​

  1. Prepare the Grape Leaves:
    • If using grape leaves preserved in brine, rinse them well under cold water to remove excess salt. If using fresh grape leaves, blanch them in boiling water for about 1 minute, then drain and rinse with cold water. Trim off any stems.
  2. Prepare the Filling:
    • In a large bowl, combine the rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped dill, chopped mint, chopped parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
  3. Fill and Roll the Grape Leaves:
    • Place a grape leaf flat on a clean work surface, shiny side down, with the stem end facing you. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the rice filling onto the center of the leaf, near the stem end.
    • Fold the bottom of the leaf over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly into a small cylinder.
    • Repeat with the remaining grape leaves and filling, arranging the rolled dolmades seam-side down in a large pot or deep skillet, packing them snugly together.
  4. Cook the Dolmades:
    • Once all the dolmades are rolled and packed in the pot, drizzle with a little olive oil and lemon juice.
    • Pour enough water into the pot to just cover the dolmades.
    • Place a heatproof plate or lid directly on top of the dolmades to keep them submerged during cooking.
    • Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer gently for about 45-60 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the grape leaves are tender.

What do you serve for Greek Easter?

With Greek Easter just around the corner, I'm getting excited to celebrate with family and friends. One of my favorite parts of this holiday is the delicious feast we enjoy together. I'm curious to hear what dishes everyone serves at their Greek Easter gatherings.

Whether you have cherished family recipes passed down through generations or you're trying something new this year, I'd love to hear about it. From traditional favorites like lamb and tzatziki to mouthwatering desserts like baklava and tsoureki, every dish adds to the festive atmosphere.

So, what's on your Greek Easter menu this year? Are there any must-have dishes or special treats that you look forward to? Feel free to share recipes, tips, or simply your excitement for the upcoming celebration. Let's swap ideas and inspire each other to make this Greek Easter memorable!

Us? We are grilling a leg of lamb and serving it with lemon potatoes and fasolakia. For dessert we are doing some kind of a chocolate cake and of course koulourakia.

Mediterranean Diet Tied to Lower Blood Pressure, Greek Study Shows!

Sign up for a free account and share your thoughts, photos, questions about Greek food, travel and culture!

WorldwideGreeks.com is a free online forum community where people can discuss Greek food, travel, traditions, history and mythology.
Join Worldwide Greeks here!

JOIN COMMUNITY FOR FREE

LOGIN TO YOUR ACCOUNT
Back
Top