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ssherie_

Active member
I’ve recently started making loukoumades at home, and they’ve quickly become a family favorite. While the classic honey and cinnamon topping is always a hit, I’m eager to experiment with some new and creative flavors.

I’d love to hear your ideas for interesting toppings or flavor combinations to take my loukoumades to the next level. Have you tried drizzling them with chocolate, caramel, or perhaps something fruity like berry compote? Maybe a savory twist could work—feta and herbs, perhaps?

I’m open to sweet, savory, or even unconventional suggestions. Whether it’s a unique drizzle, an unexpected sprinkle, or a creative dipping sauce, I’m all ears!

Can’t wait to hear your suggestions and give them a try. Let’s get creative with these delicious little bites!
 
Loukoumades are such a fun treat to experiment with! Here are a few creative topping ideas to try:
  1. Chocolate Hazelnut Drizzle: Melt Nutella or dark chocolate and drizzle it over the loukoumades, then sprinkle with crushed hazelnuts or pistachios for a crunchy finish.
  2. Salted Caramel and Sea Salt: Drizzle warm salted caramel sauce and top with a light sprinkle of sea salt—sweet and salty perfection.
  3. Berry Compote: Make a quick compote with mixed berries, a bit of sugar, and lemon juice. Drizzle it over the loukoumades and finish with powdered sugar.
  4. Savory Twist: Try crumbled feta, a drizzle of honey, and a sprinkle of thyme or za’atar for a Mediterranean-inspired savory version.
  5. Matcha Glaze: Mix matcha powder with powdered sugar and a little milk for a unique green tea glaze.
Let us know which combinations you try!
 

Making Biftekia Juicy?

I make biftekia all the time, but they don’t always turn out the way I want—sometimes they’re juicy and perfect, but more often than not, they come out a bit tough or dry. I’m wondering what I might be doing wrong. I’ll admit, I don’t follow a specific recipe—I just sort of wing it each time based on what I have on hand. Sometimes I add breadcrumbs, other times just grated onion or a splash of milk, but there’s no real method.

Do you think it’s the mix-ins, the meat-to-fat ratio, or maybe how long I cook them? I usually pan-fry them, but maybe baking would help? I want that soft, flavorful, almost melt-in-your-mouth texture like the ones from tavernas. Any tips on what makes the biggest difference when it comes to tenderness? I’d love to figure out a more consistent approach!

What are Epirus pies?

I was chatting with a friend recently about Greek food, and she mentioned “Epirus pies.” I’m of Greek descent and pretty familiar with traditional dishes, but I honestly had never heard of them! She made it sound like there’s a whole category of pies unique to the Epirus region—both savory and sweet—but I didn’t get a lot of details.

Is this really a regional thing? Are they different from the spanakopita and tiropita I grew up with? I’m curious about what makes them special—different fillings, crusts, or preparation?

If anyone here is from Epirus or has experience with these pies, I’d love to hear more. Are there any classic ones I should try making? Would also be great to know if they’re found in bakeries elsewhere in Greece, or mostly made at home.

Thanks in advance—always excited to learn more about the regional food traditions I didn’t grow up with!

Growing a Greek Herb Garden

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.

Greek Octopus in Wine?

One thing I would like to try is making Greek octopus and wine. I’ve had it a few times in Greece but have never made it at home.

Do you simmer the octopus in its own juices first or go straight into the wine? Red or white wine? I’ve heard both used depending on the region. Also curious about the use of spices—just bay leaf and peppercorns, or do you add cinnamon or cloves like in stifado?

If anyone has a yiayia-approved recipe or tips for getting that deep, rich flavor (without turning the octopus rubbery!), I’d be so grateful.

Hortopita or Spanakopita without Cheese?

I’m hoping to get some advice from anyone who’s made hortopita or spanakopita without cheese. A family member recently developed a dairy intolerance, and I’d love to be able to make a pie she can enjoy too. Traditionally I use feta or mizithra, so I’m a bit unsure how it will turn out without the cheese—will it still taste good?

Have you ever made a vegan or dairy-free version of these pies? What do you add to make up for the missing richness and saltiness from the cheese? Are there herbs, extra olive oil, or maybe lemon juice that help brighten the flavor?

I’d really appreciate any tips—especially from people who’ve done it successfully. Would love to keep the flavors authentic and satisfying while making it friendly for her diet. Thanks so much in advance!
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