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I’d love to try baking some Greek bread at home, but I’m a beginner when it comes to bread-making.

There are so many tempting options—pita, lagana, koulouri, even tsoureki—but I’m not sure where to start. I’m looking for a simple, beginner-friendly Greek bread recipe that doesn’t require fancy equipment or complicated techniques.

Ideally something that pairs well with dips like tzatziki or spreads like feta and olive oil. I’d also love to know if it freezes well or can be made ahead.

Do you have a favorite go-to Greek bread recipe that’s easy and reliable? Any tips for first-timers trying to bake Greek-style breads at home?
 
Great question — Greek breads are so rewarding to make at home, even for beginners! I’d recommend starting with lagana, the sesame flatbread traditionally baked for Clean Monday. It’s easy, doesn’t require a mixer, and pairs beautifully with dips like tzatziki or melitzanosalata. The dough is simple (flour, yeast, water, salt, olive oil), and the key is letting it rise fully so it stays soft inside.

Another easy option is koulouri Thessalonikis — those delicious sesame bread rings. They’re slightly crisp outside, fluffy inside, and perfect for spreading feta or dunking in olive oil. Plus, they freeze really well!

Skip tsoureki for now — it’s delicious but more advanced with braiding and enriched dough.

Tip: Use warm (not hot) water to activate the yeast, and don’t rush the rising time. Greek breads are rustic and forgiving — perfect for practicing! You’ll love the smell of fresh bread filling your kitchen.
 

Making Your Own Loukanako?

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!

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!

How long to soak dried chick peas?

Hi everyone! I usually use canned chickpeas out of convenience, but I’m trying to cut back on sodium in my cooking. Some canned brands have way too much salt, even if you rinse them. I’m thinking of switching to dried chickpeas but have never actually soaked or cooked them myself.

How long do you typically soak them for? Do you soak them overnight, or is there a quicker method that still works well? I’ve heard about the hot soak or “quick soak” methods but don’t know if they affect texture or taste.

Also, any tips for getting them soft without turning them to mush? I'd love to use them for things like salads, stews, or revithia. Thanks in advance!

What meat do you use for kokkinisto?

I’m planning to make kokkinisto soon and would love to get your input—what cut of meat do you usually use?

I’ve had it with beef, lamb, and even chicken over the years, but I’m curious what everyone here swears by. I’ve seen some recipes call for chuck roast or stewing beef, while others recommend lamb shoulder or shank. I’ve even heard of pork being used in some households.

Do you think the meat makes a big difference in how the sauce develops? I love when it turns out really rich, tender, and packed with flavor. I usually serve it over pasta or mashed potatoes, but sometimes with rice or crusty bread to soak up all the sauce. My favorite so far has been beef, but I want to try it with other meats, like maybe even chicken? Would it work with chicken?

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!
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