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I buy taramasalata a lot - whenever I see it. Each place I buy it from, it tastes different, and some versions are better than others.

So I thought maybe I could learn how to make it myself so that I could adjust the flavors how I want it.

I know in theory it has:

- fish roe
- bread
- olive oil
- lemons
- onion

But I have never tried making it myself yet. Any advice?
 
I buy taramasalata a lot - whenever I see it. Each place I buy it from, it tastes different, and some versions are better than others.

So I thought maybe I could learn how to make it myself so that I could adjust the flavors how I want it.

I know in theory it has:

- fish roe
- bread
- olive oil
- lemons
- onion

But I have never tried making it myself yet. Any advice?
Hi, If you have a Greek market that you can get to, they most likely will have the right kind of fish roe for an authentic taste. They would likely have good premade taramasalata too. In my family, it was dad that would make it. I remember a few things but not enough to be 100% correct. The ingredients you list were the same ingredients dad used and he was probably making it the way his family from Constantinople made it. I remember the bread was stale and dry. Also there was some kind of technique for making it creamy and completely blended. He did it by hand though not with a mixer or blender. I don't know if it really has to be done by hand. A friend of mine whose family was from Cephalonia said they made it with potatoes instead of bread. I also remember my dad making it with fresh ground walnuts instead of bread. I like this one the best, no starches. Oh, I just found a good recipe for taramosalata by Googling.
 
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Hi, If you have a Greek market that you can get to, they most likely will have the right kind of fish roe for an authentic taste. They would likely have good premade taramasalata too. In my family, it was dad that would make it. I remember a few things but not enough to be 100% correct. The ingredients you list were the same ingredients dad used and he was probably making it the way his family from Constantinople made it. I remember the bread was stale and dry. Also there was some kind of technique for making it creamy and completely blended. He did it by hand though not with a mixer or blender. I don't know if it really has to be done by hand. A friend of mine whose family was from Cephalonia said they made it with potatoes instead of bread. I also remember my dad making it with fresh ground walnuts instead of bread. I like this one the best, no starches. Oh, I just found a good recipe for taramosalata by Googling.

I like this advice - a Greek market will definitely have the right kind of roe. I have had some that taste like mayonnaise, but I caution against that. It really doesn't taste like Greece when it is made with mayo! I would use bread or potato. I am intrigued by the walnut version, that sounds great!
 
Thank you! I managed to find the proper Greek-style roe somewhere. I made it with both potato and bread (two separate batches) and I like the bread version the best! But both were pretty good. I think the store bought stuff I've had definitely included mayo.
 

What do you think of Gyro variations?

There are some gyro shops near me in the United States and they seem to be putting a different spin on the classic dish. There are some variations. What do you guys think of the variations?

I don't recall seeing these variations in Greece, but I could be wrong. Variations such as - gyros made with different meats, like chicken, those made with Greek meatballs, souvlaki, etc.

And what do you think of putting fries in Gyros? I do see that 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.

Getting souvlaki tender?

How do you make tender Greek souvlaki? I've attempted various recipes, marinated for different durations, and experimented with both high and low cooking temps, but I seem to be missing the mark for that mouth-watering tenderness commonly found in authentic Greek souvlaki.

Has anyone found a particular method or ingredient that makes a significant difference in achieving that ideal tenderness?

I use ladolemono, a marinate it overnight in ziplock baggies (after I cut the meat in cubes) and then I add them to the skewers and cook them on the grill. I typically use chicken.

What are the most famous Greek cheeses?

I've recently embarked on a culinary quest to explore the rich and diverse world of Greek cheeses. From the tangy feta found in traditional Greek salads to the sizzling delights of halloumi, Greece's cheese culture seems incredibly vast and flavorful. 🇬🇷

I'm reaching out to this knowledgeable community to ask: What are the most famous Greek cheeses that you've tried or heard of?

Are there any particular varieties that are a must-try or any hidden gems that rarely escape the borders of Greece? And if you have any delicious recipes or pairings to share, I'd love to hear about those too!
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