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paharo45

Active member
It's getting warm out and time to break out the grill! I am interested in how do Greek people in Greece grill? I've had so many delicious grilled foods in Greece, I am having a hard time getting the same flavors here in the United States.

I've tried my hand at a few recipes, aiming to capture that authentic taste, but I feel like there's a deeper level of technique and tradition that I'm just not hitting. From choosing the right ingredients to mastering the grill itself, I know there’s a wealth of subtleties that can turn a good dish into a great one.

Do they use certain marinades or techniques? I've watched people in Greece grill - they don't even really follow recipes.
 
Some ideas - I love grilling!
  • Souvlaki: I mostly use chicken marinated in ladolemono.
  • Gyros: I grill the meat then slice it thin before making the sandwich.
  • Grilled Octopus: Tender octopus marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, then grilled to perfection.
  • Grilled Fish: Whole fish or fillets seasoned with olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs, then grilled until flaky.
  • Greek-style Burgers (Biftekia): Seasoned ground meat patties made with a mix of beef and lamb, grilled and served with tzatziki.
  • Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, onions, and tomatoes brushed with olive oil, seasoned, and grilled until tender.
  • Lamb Chops: Tender lamb chops marinated in olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano, then grilled to juicy perfection.
  • Grilled Pita Bread: Soft pita bread brushed with olive oil, grilled until warm and slightly charred, perfect for serving with dips or wrapping grilled meats.
 

What is your favorite Greek cheese?

What’s your favorite Greek cheese and how do you use it?

I’m partial to feta—it’s always in my fridge and I toss it into just about everything. From horiatiki salads to spanakopita to a simple omelet, it just works. But lately, I’ve been trying to branch out and explore some of the other amazing Greek cheeses out there.

I’ve tried graviera and really liked how nutty it was when grilled. A friend recently suggested trying manouri in desserts, which totally surprised me—had no idea it was that versatile! I also picked up some kefalotyri and used it for saganaki, which was incredible.

So I’m curious—what’s your favorite Greek cheese and how do you usually enjoy it? Are there any regional cheeses I should try? I’d especially love ideas for how to use them in both traditional and unexpected ways.

Would love to hear what everyone else is cooking with!

Thick of Think Bechamel for Pastitsio or Moussaka?

Hi everyone! I’m curious how you like your Bechamel for Pastitsio and Moussaka? My family is a bit divided between liking it thick and fluffy or a bit thinner. What do you think?

I’ve seen it both ways. Some recipes go heavy on the flour and eggs to get that airy, almost cake-like layer that stands tall when sliced. Others go lighter for a more velvety topping that melts into the rest of the dish. I personally love both depending on the mood—thick and fluffy feels more indulgent, but the thinner version blends beautifully with the meat or pasta.

What do you usually go for when you cook or eat these dishes? And do you ever adjust your béchamel depending on the occasion or who you’re serving?

Would love to hear your thoughts, favorite techniques, or any tips for getting that perfect top layer just right!

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!

Favorite Combinations for Meze?

I’m putting together a meze spread soon and would love to hear everyone’s favorite combos! I know there are so many options—dips, cheeses, olives, little bites of seafood or meat—and it’s hard to decide what to include without going overboard.

Do you have go-to combinations that work well together flavor-wise or texture-wise? For example, I love pairing taramosalata with grilled pita, and I always include dolmades, olives, and a wedge of feta with oregano and olive oil. Sometimes I’ll add shrimp saganaki or keftedakia if I want something more filling.

But I’m curious—what makes it onto your ideal meze platter? Do you stick to vegetarian, add seafood, or include some hot options? I’d love to hear what you put together and how you balance everything out!

Favorite Greek Foods with Beer?

What are your favorite Greek foods to have with beer?

I’m putting together a casual get-together with some friends and thought it’d be fun to do a Greek-style spread—but with beer instead of ouzo. I know ouzo and tsipouro get all the attention with meze, but I’m more of a beer guy.

What do you think pairs best? I was thinking grilled loukaniko, maybe some spicy feta dip, fried calamari, or even gyros if I’m feeling ambitious. I’m open to both traditional stuff and more casual options that work well with a cold lager or IPA.

What do you usually snack on with beer when you’re keeping it Greek? Any combos I should try?

Thanks in advance—looking forward to seeing what everyone suggests.
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