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knicks_fan87

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This is a picture of the traditional Christmas cookies that I made for Christmas yesterday! I baked them in the oven right after letting them sit for a few minutes. My guests devoured them today! I am so happy that this recipe came out so great! I put a little bit less syrup because I don't like them to taste too sweet and I added a little bit of ground clove on top at the end with some crushed walnuts! I will post the recipe I used in the comments :)

IMG_4234.jpg
 
This is a picture of the traditional Christmas cookies that I made for Christmas yesterday! I baked them in the oven right after letting them sit for a few minutes. My guests devoured them today! I am so happy that this recipe came out so great! I put a little bit less syrup because I don't like them to taste too sweet and I added a little bit of ground clove on top at the end with some crushed walnuts! I will post the recipe I used in the comments :)

View attachment 902
https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1022774-melomakarona-greek-olive-oil-honey-cookies here is the recipe I used :) enjoy!
 

Favorite Greek Food You Grew Up With?

I’ve been thinking lately about the Greek foods that were just part of everyday life growing up — the things that showed up on the table without much discussion, but somehow became the strongest memories. For me, it wasn’t always the big holiday dishes. It was the simple stuff: baked casseroles, roasted meats, lemon potatoes, lentil soup, bread with olive oil, things like that.

Now that I’m older, I realize how much those foods were tied to family routines and culture, not just taste. Some of them I still make. Some I haven’t had in years.

I’m curious what others grew up eating regularly. What dishes were normal in your house? Anything specific to your family’s region or traditions?

Making a Greek Salad with Lettuce?

Most people think that horiatiki doesn't have lettuce, but depending on the region, do you know that I have seem them with lettuce? I get the feeling that what we outside of Greece think of as horiatiki isn't white it. When I go to Greece in the height of summer, it doesn't have lettuce. When I go outside of that, it might have lettuce. What is actually going on here?

That being said, I often see a "Green Salad" on menus. And a variation of cabbage salad, similar to the kind I make at home, but at home I only use cabbage and in Greece I see it with other ingredients like shaved carrots. I have even seen Greek cabbage salad served on a bed of lettuce! What is actually going on here? What is the real story with lettuce usage in Greece?

Favorite Greek lamb dishes?

I’ve always felt like lamb is one of the ingredients that really defines Greek cuisine. There’s something about the combination of herbs, lemon, garlic, and slow cooking that just works. I tend to default to classics like roasted lamb with potatoes or souvlaki, but I know there are a lot of regional dishes and traditional preparations I probably haven’t tried yet.

I’m especially curious about dishes people grew up with or recipes that have family connections. Do you prefer slow-roasted styles, grilled preparations, or something more rustic like stovetop or braised dishes? And are there any lesser-known lamb recipes you think deserve more attention?

If you cook lamb at home, I’d also love to hear your favorite seasoning approaches or techniques for keeping it tender and flavorful.

What are your favorite Greek lamb dishes, either to cook or to order when you’re out?

Simple Greek Lentil Soup Recipe

I make lentil soup a lot this time of year especially since this is a pretty big fasting period (lent). I thought I'd share my recipe!

Ingredients
  • 1 cup brown lentils
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 carrot, chopped (optional but common)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2–3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1–2 tbsp tomato paste (optional)
  • 4 cups water
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1–2 tbsp red wine vinegar (for serving)
Instructions
  1. Rinse the lentils well under cold water.
  2. In a pot, add lentils and water. Bring to a boil and skim any foam.
  3. Add onion, garlic, carrot, bay leaf, olive oil, and tomato paste.
  4. Lower the heat and simmer for about 30–40 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
  5. Season with salt and pepper.

Lentil Dishes Beyond Lentil Soup

I’ve been cooking more lentils lately, mostly the classic Greek lentil soup, which I like a lot, but I know there has to be more out there. Lentils are one of those ingredients that feel very traditional and practical, inexpensive, filling, and honestly perfect for colder weather or fasting periods.

I’m curious what other Greek lentil dishes people make besides soup. Are there regional recipes, salads, or baked dishes that you recommend? I’ve heard of lentils served with vinegar and olive oil almost like a salad, and I’m wondering how common that is.

I’m especially interested in recipes that feel hearty and satisfying, not just light sides. Something you could put on the table as a main dish. How do you cook lentils?
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