Pastitsio problem with the filling

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.

I've recently developed a fascination with Greek wines and am eager to explore their potential pairings with various cuisines. Greek wines, with their rich history and unique grape varieties, offer a tantalizing range of flavors that I believe can complement a wide array of dishes beautifully. However, my experience in effectively pairing these wines is somewhat limited, and I would greatly appreciate any advice or insights from those more familiar with this area.

Particularly, I'm interested in understanding which types of Greek wines (white, red, or rosé) pair best with specific dishes or cuisines. Here are a few specific questions I have in mind:

1. Assyrtiko: Known for its crisp acidity and citrus notes, which dishes would best highlight Assyrtiko's characteristics?
2. Agiorgitiko: Often described as smooth and velvety, what kinds of meals would complement this type of red wine?
3. Xinomavro: With its robust tannins and complex flavor profile, what are the best food pairings to balance its intensity?
4. Retsina: Given its unique pine resin flavor, are there particular foods that match well with this traditional wine?

Additionally, I'm curious if there are any general rules of thumb when it comes to pairing Greek wines with dishes from other culinary traditions outside of Greek cuisine.

Thank you!

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?

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.

I understand that Greece is just like other countries where there might be food trends, new dishes, etc to enjoy.

I'm looking to understand more about the latest trends that are currently shaping it. I'm particularly interested in how traditional Greek recipes are being reimagined by modern chefs, how regional variations are gaining popularity, or if there's a rise in any particular ingredients or cooking methods.

Is anyone here keeping tabs on contemporary movements in Greek food? Maybe you've dined at a restaurant that surprised you with a modern twist on a Greek classic, or you've come across new food blogs with innovative recipes.

The cuisine of Greece is as much about the traditional recipes we all love as it is the trends and the way the cuisine moves forward!