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acamp7

Active member
I love the store-bought phyllo, don't get me wrong. Sometimes, though, when I want to make a quick supper - I don't always want to go through the work. Yes, store-bought phyllo is a lot of work even though it has the appearance of saving time. The thin sheets don't make much of a dent, and I lose time because I have to use more sheets and each sheet needs to be buttered, etc.

When I want to make it fast, I use homemade phyllo - this is best for stuff like tiropitakes and the like, that I can whip together fast and make in smaller batches. This is the recipe I use for homemade phyllo.

- 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup warm water

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.

2. Add in the olive oil and mix until the flour looks crumbly.

3. Slowly pour in the warm water while stirring with a spoon. Keep mixing until a smooth dough forms.

4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for at least 10 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic.

5. Place the dough back into the mixing bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

6. After 30 minutes, divide the dough into 8 or 10 equal pieces and roll each piece out into a thin sheet. Try to make it as thin as possible without tearing it.

7. Dust each sheet with a light coating of flour and stack them neatly on top of each other.

8. Use a sharp knife to trim the edges for an even rectangle shape.

9. Roll the stack of sheets into a tight roll, and then cut it into sections that match the size of your desired final product.
 
This is a good recipe it looks like. It's similar to something that I do.

I find that I don't like to use homemade phyllo for desserts and tend to reach for the store bought kind with the fine sheets.

During the pandemic, when there were shortages, I couldn't fond store-bought phyllo so started making it!
 
This is a good recipe it looks like. It's similar to something that I do.

I find that I don't like to use homemade phyllo for desserts and tend to reach for the store bought kind with the fine sheets.

During the pandemic, when there were shortages, I couldn't fond store-bought phyllo so started making it!
Thank you! I do a similar thing, and use this for savory pies, as opposed to desserts. I don't think the recipe even makes enough for my baklava recipe.
 

What foods go best with ouzo?

I am curious - what goods go best with Ouzo? Traditionally, I don't actually pay attention.

From my understanding, Ouzo is traditionally enjoyed with small plates, similar to tapas, known as "mezedes" in Greece. Yet, I’m eager to hear from those who have either traveled to Greece or have an in-depth knowledge of Greek cuisine about what specific dishes you think would pair best with Ouzo. Are there specific flavors or types of dishes (seafood, meats, vegetables) that enhance the experience of sipping Ouzo?

Greek Marinated Olives Recipe

I love to serve marinated Greek olives when I have people over. It's easy to do, and I change things each time. The amounts are for a big serving enough for company. I halve the recipe otherwise.
  • 2 cups mixed Greek olives (such as Kalamata, green, or black)
  • 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Lemon zest (optional)
  • Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or basil)
Instructions:
  1. Prepare the olives: Rinse the olives under cold water to remove excess brine. If the olives are very salty, you can soak them in cold water for about 30 minutes, then drain.
  2. Combine ingredients: In a bowl, combine the olives, sliced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and red pepper flakes if using. Gently toss to coat the olives evenly with the marinade.
  3. Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the olives and marinade to a sealable container. Let the olives marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.
  4. Serve: Before serving, let the olives come to room temperature to allow the flavors to fully develop. Optionally, garnish with lemon zest and fresh herbs for extra freshness and aroma.

Cumin in Greek Cooking?

When I was in Greece, I bumped into a "spanakopita" in like a turnover style dough. It didn't have cheese and was spiced with cumin. I hadn't realized people use Cumin in Greece until I tasted it in this dish. I was kind of confused.

Do people actually use cumin in Greek cooking? None of the old recipes I have mention it. Could it be a more modern influence?

What do you think of Gyro variations?

There are some gyro shops near me in the United States and they seem to be putting a different spin on the classic dish. There are some variations. What do you guys think of the variations?

I don't recall seeing these variations in Greece, but I could be wrong. Variations such as - gyros made with different meats, like chicken, those made with Greek meatballs, souvlaki, etc.

And what do you think of putting fries in Gyros? I do see that in Greece.

Creative ideas for Easter lamb leftovers?

We cooked too much Easter lamb than we needed and have a ton leftover. I am sure I am not the only one! I am brainstorming ways to use the leftovers. Do you guys have anything to add?

1. Gyros with lamb (Tzatziki and all the trimmings!)
2. Lamb sandwiches
3. Stir fries
4. Lamb in rice and tomato sauce
5. Wraps
6. Omelets and scrambles (think steak and eggs, but with Greek flavors and of course lamb instead of steak)

grilled-lamb-chops.jpg
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