Greek Food, Cooking and Recipe Community

Makaronia Me Kima Meat Question

1 - 5 of 5 Posts
M

mastichas09

Active member
Can you use different kinds of ground meat in Makaronia me Kima? I usually have only had it (outside of Greece) with beef. I've had it in Greece and it tastes different a little bit... is it possible it is a different meat? It didn't quite taste like lamb.

At home, can I use different meats? I don't always want to eat beef, but that is the easiest to find. I tried making it with ground turkey once and that was a disaster.
 
It was most likely ground beef. I have heard that pork mixed with beef gives it a better flavor, so it could have been that. Contrary to what people believe, Greeks don't eat lamb very often (it's mostly on Pascha and that's it).

Everything in Greece tastes different, which is why it's hard to replicate a recipe that will have the exact same taste that you experienced in Greece.
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Reactions: mastichas09 and Luana
mastichas09 said:
Can you use different kinds of ground meat in Makaronia me Kima? I usually have only had it (outside of Greece) with beef. I've had it in Greece and it tastes different a little bit... is it possible it is a different meat? It didn't quite taste like lamb.

At home, can I use different meats? I don't always want to eat beef, but that is the easiest to find. I tried making it with ground turkey once and that was a disaster.
Click to expand...
Stick with beef, make sure the ground beef you use has over 20% fat (that is what will flavour the entire thing). If you feel more fat is needed, use butter not olive oil. Be generous with Black pepper, oregano and or Rosemary (whichever you prefer and use).
 
  • Like
Reactions: mastichas09
Thank you both for chiming in. This is great advice. You guys are right, everything tastes different in Greece! I will definitely stick to beef. I ended up trying lamb and it tasted off.
 
I would definitely make this with beef - I don't think lamb would taste right!
 
  • Like
Reactions: Yani48
1 - 5 of 5 Posts
You must log in or register to reply here.

JOIN THE DISCUSSION AND READ OTHER GREEK INFO:

Salt Cod in Greek Cooking?

How is salt cod, or Bakaliaros, used in Greek cooking? I remember my grandmother using it and I forget for what...

Could anyone share what specific dishes in Greek cuisine feature salt cod as the key ingredient? How is it typically prepared and served in Greece? Are there any traditional recipes or unique cooking methods that highlight the flavor and texture of salt cod in Greek cooking? I know a lot of other cultures use it, too.

I believe understanding the culinary uses of salt cod in Greece could offer deeper insights into the country’s culture and traditions. Plus, it would be great to try and replicate some of these dishes at home!

Greek Souvlaki Marinade Recipe

Now that grilling season is upon us, I thought I would share my souvlaki marinade. I cut the meat in cubes and marinate in plastic bags overnight. I skewer them just before grilling.

Add to a mason jar:
  • 1/4 cup Greek olive oil
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Then I cover the mason jar and shake, add the meat to the bags, and pour it over. If I am making a huge batch I double the marinade.

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?

Can you use frozen vegetables for Greek dishes?

There are two Greek dishes that I enjoy a lot and like to make a lot - fasolakia and the baked vegetables with the variety.

It's not always realistic for me to make them, though, because of the vegetable situation.

Is it okay to use frozen veggies? These are washed and chopped - they're basically ready to go - so it would save me a lot of time!

fasolakia-greek-food.jpg

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
Sign up for a free account and share your thoughts, photos, questions about Greek food, travel and culture!

WorldwideGreeks.com is a free online forum community where people can discuss Greek food, travel, traditions, history and mythology.
Join Worldwide Greeks here!

JOIN COMMUNITY FOR FREE

LOGIN TO YOUR ACCOUNT
Back
Top