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mj_toronto8

Active member
Ingredients
  • 2 1/4 pounds lamb shoulder
  • 1/2 cup butter or olive oil
  • 1 finely chopped onion
  • 4 whole tomatoes, diced
  • Pepper
  • Salt
  • 1 pound orzo
  • 1 cup grated Kefalotiri cheese

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut meat into 5-6 serving pieces and place in a casserole dish. Add the butter, onion, tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients together on top of the lamb. Cover the casserole dish and place it in the center of the oven. Bake it for 1 hour.

When the hour is nearly up, bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Remove the casserole from the oven and add the boiling water. Stir in the orzo. Cover and return to the oven. Bake for 30 minutes, stirring 2-3 times during the cooking process.

Remove from the oven and serve immediately. Garnish each portion with some Kefalotiri cheese. If you can’t find that particular cheese nearby, feel free to use Parmesan or Romano cheese, instead.
 

Bougatsa Recipe - Delicious Breakfast!

When I was in Greece, I loved having bougatsa for breakfast. I don't have it much when I am back home so I decided to learn how to make it. Here's the recipe I use:

I do have a question, I find using the puff pastry the easiest. However, what do they use in Greece?

Dough:
  • 1 package (about 17.3 ounces) frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Custard:
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup fine semolina flour
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
  • Ground cinnamon, for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Custard Filling:
    • In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it's hot but not boiling.
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, semolina flour, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
    • Gradually pour about 1/4 of the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
    • Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining hot milk, whisking constantly.
    • Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a custard-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the Bougatsa Dough:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    • Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets onto a clean surface. Brush melted butter generously over one sheet of puff pastry.
    • Place the second puff pastry sheet on top of the buttered one. Brush the top with more melted butter.
    • Roll up the puff pastry sheets tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal portions.
  3. Assemble the Bougatsa:
    • Take one portion of the puff pastry and flatten it into a thin circle on a floured surface, using a rolling pin.
    • Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the cooled custard filling in the center of the pastry circle.
    • Fold the edges of the pastry circle over the custard filling, creating a sealed pouch. Place the filled bougatsa onto the prepared baking sheet.
    • Repeat this process with the remaining puff pastry portions and custard filling.
  4. Bake the Bougatsa:
    • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the bougatsa until the pastry is golden brown and crispy, about 25-30 minutes.
    • Remove the bougatsa from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Best meze to serve at Easter?

What is the best Greek meze to serve for Greek Easter? I want dishes that will wow my guests and make this Easter unforgettable. I’m looking for meze that are both traditional and have that ‘wow’ factor in terms of visual appeal and taste. I’d appreciate if you could share your favorites and perhaps some personal tips or recipes that make them stand out.

Here’s what I’m considering so far, but I’d love your input:
  • Tzatziki - A refreshing yogurt, cucumber, and garlic dip.
  • Spanakopita - Hearty spinach and feta pie encased in flaky pastry.
  • Dolmadakia (Stuffed Grape Leaves) - A tangy and herb-infused delight.
  • Feta cheese. A classic - I sometimes drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano.
  • Olives. No meze spread is complete without olives.
What else should I put out? Or is that enough? We're having about 20 people.

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?

Different kinds of baklava to try?

I've recently found myself on a delicious quest to explore the world of baklava, that rich, sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup. I understand that baklava has roots in many culinary traditions across the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia, each bringing its own unique twist to this iconic dessert.

From what I’ve gathered, the variations of baklava are as numerous as they are delicious, differing in nuts, spices, types of syrup, and preparation methods. However, navigating through these variations is quite the challenge, and that’s where I’m seeking your collective wisdom!

I am curious what you guys think!

Top herbal teas popular in Greece?

Could anyone share insights or recommendations on which herbal teas are the most popular or cherished in Greece? I'm particularly interested in teas that are unique to the region or have a special place in Greek culture and wellness practices.

Also, if you have any suggestions on where I might purchase these teas, especially if they're available online, that would be incredibly helpful! I'm eager to try making some of these teas at home and experiencing a taste of Greek herbal tradition.

Thank you in advance for your help! I’m looking forward to exploring your suggestions and hopefully discovering some new favorite teas.
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