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paharo45

Active member
Greek yogurt is such a versatile ingredient, and I love how it’s used in both savory and sweet Greek dishes. Of course, tzatziki is the first thing that comes to mind—it’s a staple at my table, whether as a dip, sauce, or even a spread on sandwiches. But I know there are so many other Greek dishes that incorporate Greek yogurt in creative ways!

I’ve tried chicken marinades with yogurt, and I’ve heard that it’s also used in certain Greek-style baked goods to make them extra moist and flavorful. And then there are desserts—like Greek yogurt with honey and walnuts, or even as a base for traditional sweets like yogurt cake (Yaourtopita).

I’d love to hear from others—what are your favorite Greek dishes that use Greek yogurt? Do you use it in ways that aren’t as well-known? Any family recipes or personal twists you swear by?
 
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Totally agree—Greek yogurt is such a gem in the kitchen! One of my favorite ways to use it is in patates me yiaourti(roasted potatoes with herbed Greek yogurt). The warm, crispy potatoes paired with a garlicky yogurt topping are divine! I also use Greek yogurt instead of cream in avgolemono soup for a lighter twist—it adds a lovely tang while still keeping it creamy.

For dessert, my yiayia used to make a super simple frozen yogurt with crushed pistachios and rosewater—it’s refreshing and feels fancy with minimal effort. And for breakfast, I love mixing it with tahini and a touch of honey over toasted bread.

It’s amazing how this one ingredient can do so much—from marinades to sauces, from lightening up baked goods to being the star of the show in sweet treats. Curious what other hidden gems are out there using it!
 

Understanding Greek Condiments

I’ve noticed that condiments in Greece can vary quite a bit depending on where you are. For example, when I visit Crete, there’s always fresh lemon on the table, and people use it on everything, from meat to greens. In other places, I see a lot of vinegar being used, especially with salads and fried foods.

It got me wondering, what are the most common condiments across different regions of Greece? Do Greeks ever use things like ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise at home, or is that mostly in tourist areas?

I know olive oil and lemon are staples, but sometimes I see things on tables that surprise me. Just curious if there are certain traditional uses for these “modern” condiments or if it’s more regional/custom-based. Would love to hear your thoughts or family traditions!

Frying Saganaki the Right Way?

I love saganaki. There’s nothing better than that golden, crispy cheese with a squeeze of lemon. I always order it at Greek restaurants, but I’ve never actually tried making it myself at home. I’m finally ready to give it a shot and could really use some tips!

What’s the best type of cheese to use? I’ve heard of kefalograviera and kasseri, but I’m not sure which gives the best result. Also, how do you keep it from melting into a puddle or sticking to the pan?

Do you dredge it in flour or something else? Olive oil or another type of oil for frying? And how do you get that perfect crispy edge without burning it?

Greek Meal Prepping Tips?

I love cooking Greek food and do it often, but let’s be honest, some of our favorite dishes take forever to prepare. Between layering, slow simmering, and fresh chopping, it’s not always realistic on a busy weeknight. I’m starting to think about meal prepping Greek-style, but I’m not sure where to begin.

What traditional dishes work well for prepping ahead? I’m hoping for healthy options—think veggies, legumes, lean meats, maybe even Lenten dishes. Can you freeze moussaka or fasolada? Do you pre-roll dolmades and just steam them later? How do you store horta or prep spanakopita in advance without it getting soggy?

I’d love to hear what works for you, like batch cooking ideas, tips for storing or reheating, or any Greek dishes that get betterafter a day or two!

My Favorite Greek Ladokoulourakia Recipe

I love these olive oil cookies - I first had them in Greece and have been making them ever since.

Ingredients:​

  • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground cloves (optional, but I love it)
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 4 to 4½ cups all-purpose flour
  • Optional: sesame seeds for topping

Instructions:​

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, sugar, orange zest, baking soda, cinnamon, and cloves.
  3. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft, pliable dough forms. It should not stick to your hands.
  4. Shape into small ropes (~4–5 inches) and form into twists or rings.
  5. Place on baking sheet. Optional: brush with a little orange juice and sprinkle sesame seeds.
  6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until lightly golden.

Handling dried gigantes?

I’m a huge fan of gigantes plaki and other dishes that use these giant beans. I am really struggling with the dried ones.

No matter how long I soak or boil them, they never seem to get quite soft enough. I’ve tried overnight soaking, longer cooking times, even baking soda in the soak water. Still hit-or-miss results. Sometimes they split before they soften, or the skins get tough.

I know canned gigantes exist, but I’d love to master the dried kind, especially for homemade plaki where texture really matters.

Any tips? Is there a soaking method or cooking trick that’s worked well for you? I am considering trying to get them soft in a pressure cooker, maybe that will help?
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