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axariotisxy

Active member
I’m starting a small outdoor herb garden to enhance my Greek cooking and could use some advice! I live in a cold climate, so I plan to grow everything in pots so I can bring them indoors during the winter. I’m aiming for classic Greek herbs for dishes like roasted lamb, vegetable dishes, grilled fish, Greek salads, souvlaki, stuffed grape leaves, etc.

I already use dried oregano and mint all the time, so I’d love to grow fresh versions. What else should I include? Definitely oregano and thyme ... what about rosemary, sage, or dill? Any tips on what grows well together in containers—or which herbs struggle with being moved indoors? I'd really appreciate any suggestions, especially from others who’ve tried growing Greek herbs in colder regions.
 
That sounds like a wonderful idea—fresh herbs really elevate Greek cooking, and container gardening is smart for colder climates. I’ve been growing Greek herbs in pots for a few years now and have learned a few things along the way.

Oregano, thyme, and rosemary are definitely staples. They all love sun and well-drained soil, and they grow well together since their care needs are similar. Sage fits into that group too, but I’ve found it doesn’t love being moved once it’s established—so try to minimize relocating it too often.

Mint is great for tzatziki and teas, but I’d recommend planting it in its own pot. It tends to spread aggressively and can take over everything else. Dill is fantastic for dolmades and fish, but it can be temperamental indoors. Try starting it from seed regularly so you have a fresh supply.
 

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?

Homemade Gyro Meat?

I absolutely love gyros, but I’ve never been a fan of the store-bought meat—it always tastes a bit too processed for me. I’m thinking about trying to make my own gyro meat at home, but I’m not sure where to start. Is it as simple as roasting a leg of lamb and carving thin slices? Or is there a better way to get that classic texture and flavor?

I’ve seen some people use a mix of lamb and beef, ground and packed tightly into a loaf pan. Others say the key is in the spices and pressing the meat after cooking. I’m open to experimenting, but I’d love to hear what’s worked for others.

Top 5 Favorite Greek Foods to Grill?

I absolutely love hosting summer dinner parties outside, there’s nothing better than good food, good company, and a warm evening breeze. I tend to stick with Greek food (with a few fun twists), and grilling has become my favorite way to cook when entertaining.

Here’s my current top 5 for the grill:
  1. Leg of lamb (slow and juicy!)
  2. Souvlaki (can’t go wrong)
  3. Grilled whole fish, Greek style with lemon and herbs
  4. Greek veggies in a grill pan—zucchini, peppers, onions, the works
  5. Pizza! Not traditional Greek, but it’s always a crowd pleaser
I’m always looking for new ideas to add to the lineup. What are your favorite Greek (or Greek-inspired) dishes to grill? I’d love to hear what others are making—especially things that feel festive, flavorful, and easy to serve outdoors. Open to everything from meats to cheeses to sides...

Greek tomato rice - tomatorizo with fresh tomatoes?

Believe it or not, I’m about to have the first of my early-season tomatoes, maybe a week out! I got the plant from a local greenhouse, so it was a bit further along, and now I’m finally seeing ripe ones. I’d love to make domatorizo (Greek tomato rice) with them.

I’ve only ever made it with canned tomatoes or passata, but this time I want to go all in with the fresh ones from my garden. Do you peel and grate them, or just chop and cook them down? Any tips for getting that rich flavor without overcooking the rice? Do you sauté the rice first or add it straight in?

Would love a tried-and-true method—especially if it’s how your mom or yiayia made it. I want to honor the tomatoes and keep it simple. Thanks!

Best way to use Myzithra?

I recently picked up a nice wedge of myzithra cheese from a local Greek market—semi-hard, salty, and beautifully aged. I’ve used it a couple of times grated over pasta, which was delicious, but I’m curious what other traditional or creative ways you all enjoy it.

I know there’s a fresh version and a dry aged one, this one is definitely the dry, crumbly type. Are there regional dishes that really highlight its flavor? I’ve heard of it being used in pies, but I’m not sure how it’s prepared—does it pair well with spinach, like in spanakopita, or is it better on its own?
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