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acamp7

Active member
Hi everyone! I recently tried portokalopita for the first time at a Greek bakery and absolutely loved it. I’ve never made it myself, but I’d really like to try baking it at home.

Does anyone have a great recipe they’d recommend? I’m especially looking for something that’s moist, has a strong orange flavor, and uses phyllo in that shredded, layered way I saw in the version I had.

Any tips or tricks for getting the syrup just right would also be super helpful.
 
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Hi everyone! I recently tried portokalopita for the first time at a Greek bakery and absolutely loved it. I’ve never made it myself, but I’d really like to try baking it at home.

Does anyone have a great recipe they’d recommend? I’m especially looking for something that’s moist, has a strong orange flavor, and uses phyllo in that shredded, layered way I saw in the version I had.

Any tips or tricks for getting the syrup just right would also be super helpful.
Hi! I have a tried and trusted Portokalopita Recipe that has everything you're looking for! I have an easy method where I shred the phyllo dough, but don't layer it and the syrup is amazing! It's not too sweet. I have lots of tips and suggestions in my post to help you make it. You'll find the recipe at the bottom of the post. Let me know how it goes!
 
Portokalopita is such a gem—glad you loved it! I make it often, and the key is using dried, crumbled phyllo (let it sit out for a few hours or overnight) so it soaks up the orange custard well. For strong orange flavor, I use both zest and fresh juice, plus a splash of orange liqueur like Grand Marnier if I have it.

As for the syrup, boil equal parts sugar and water with orange peel and a cinnamon stick for about 8–10 minutes. Pour it cold over the warm cake so it absorbs fully and stays moist.

Let it rest overnight—it’s even better the next day!
 

Best dips to serve with souvlaki?

Hey everyone! I’m planning to make a big batch of souvlaki soon for some company coming over, and I’m looking to level up my sides game a bit. I always make tzatziki—it’s a classic and never disappoints—but I’d really like to mix things up this time and offer a few other traditional (or even creative) Greek dips or spreads to go with it.

What do you usually serve with your souvlaki? I’m thinking something that’s great for scooping with pita or drizzling over the meat. I’ve heard of things like tirokafteri and skordalia, but I’ve never made them myself. Would love tips, go-to recipes, or even store-bought recs if you’ve got them.

Also curious if anyone serves something less traditional, like a Greek-style hummus or roasted eggplant dip. Anything that complements grilled meat is fair game!

Appreciate the ideas—thanks in advance!

Kalamata vs Green Olives - Which for Mezze?

Hey everyone! I’m putting together a small Greek mezze spread and could use your thoughts. I almost always reach for Kalamata olives — they’re my favorite for their deep, briny flavor and gorgeous color. But I’m also planning to serve a traditional Greek salad, which already includes Kalamata olives, so now I’m wondering…

Would it be better to include green olives in the mezze plate instead, just for variety? Or do you think there’s no such thing as too many Kalamatas on the table?

I’ve seen green olives used in mezze platters, but I’m not sure which type complements the other flavors best — especially when you’ve got things like tzatziki, dolmades, and feta going on.

Do you ever mix olive types in your mezze? Or do you stick to one kind? Would love to hear what others do for balance and presentation. Thanks!

How do you prepare your Kalamari?

Kalamari lovers, I’d love to hear from you—how do you usually prepare it? Do you go for the classic crispy fried rings, toss it on the grill with olive oil and lemon, or do you get more creative with a stuffed version?

I’ve had it so many ways and each preparation brings something totally different to the table. Lately, I’ve been experimenting with grilling it and adding a garlic-lime marinade, but I’m curious about what everyone else does. Do you use fresh or frozen squid? Any special tricks for keeping it tender and not rubbery? If you stuff it, what kind of filling do you use—rice and herbs, feta and spinach, something else?

I’m especially looking for tips on how to get the flavor just right without overpowering the kalamari itself. Share your favorite methods, family recipes, or secret ingredients—I’d love to try something new next time I make it!

Pastitsio - Should I Add Cinnamon?

Hi everyone! I’m making pastitsio this weekend for a family gathering, and I’m debating whether or not to add cinnamon to the meat sauce. I’ve seen it both ways—some recipes call for just a pinch, while others go heavier, giving it that sweet, aromatic depth. I know cinnamon is more common in moussaka, but I’ve heard it’s traditional in pastitsio too, depending on the region.

What do you all think? Does cinnamon make it more authentic, or do you prefer a more savory meat sauce without the sweetness? I’m leaning toward adding just a bit, but I don’t want to overwhelm anyone who’s expecting something more classic and hearty. Do you do nutmeg and cinnamon both? I usually put nutmeg in the béchamel.

Tips for Choosing a Fish to Greek Greek-Style

Where I live, the fish available are pretty different than what I’ve seen in Greece. I absolutely love grilling fish, especially the Greek way—simple, fresh, and flavorful. I remember how often grilled fish in Greece came out perfectly cooked, finished with that delicious ladolemono (olive oil and lemon sauce). It’s such a clean and satisfying dish.

The challenge is figuring out which types of fish available outside of Greece will hold up well to this method of preparation. In Greece, fish like lavraki (sea bass), tsipoura (sea bream), and barbouni (red mullet) seem common, but I don’t see those where I am (Chicago Area at the moment).

I’d love to hear suggestions for fish that taste great grilled whole and can soak up that classic ladolemono flavor. Thanks in advance!
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