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auroracoor1

Active member
I’m planning something different and special for Thanksgiving this year and thought it would be fun to surprise my family with homemade loukoumades! We’ve always stuck to the traditional pies and cakes, but I love the idea of adding a touch of Greek sweetness to the holiday.

That said, I’ve never made loukoumades before, and I’d love some advice from anyone who’s tackled this dessert. Do you have a tried-and-true recipe for the dough? Any tips for getting them perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy inside? Also, how far in advance can I prep them without losing that fresh-made magic?

I’d like to give them a little twist for Thanksgiving—maybe a spiced honey syrup with cinnamon and nutmeg or even a drizzle of chocolate. Does that sound good, or should I stick to the classic version?
 
What a fantastic idea to bring a Greek twist to Thanksgiving! Loukoumades are such a delightful dessert, and your spiced honey syrup sounds like the perfect seasonal touch. A drizzle of chocolate would also work wonderfully—why not offer both options and let your family pick their favorite?

For the dough, a simple yeast-based recipe is best: mix flour, warm water, yeast, sugar, and a pinch of salt, and let it rise until bubbly. To get that perfect crispy-yet-fluffy texture, make sure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F) and drop small spoonfuls of dough into the oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan, and fry until golden brown.

Loukoumades are best served fresh, but you can prep the dough a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. Just bring it to room temperature before frying.
 

Oregano from Greece?

I’ve been experimenting with Greek recipes lately and keep hearing about the magic of oregano from Greece. I usually just use the oregano from my local grocery store here in the US, but I’m wondering: does Greek oregano really taste that different?

Is it worth going the extra mile to buy oregano imported from Greece for authentic Greek dishes? If you’ve tried both, what’s the main difference in flavor or aroma?

Also, are there any specific brands or sources you’d recommend for getting quality Greek oregano? I want my dishes to have that authentic touch.

Greek Cabbage Salad Recipe

I love making Greek cabbage salad. This is the recipe I use (the ingredients). I want to change things up. Any variations you know of that I can try? Cabbages are in season now for me.
  • 1 medium green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 medium carrot, grated
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 large lemon (or 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Feta cheese for the top

Orange-Scented Baklava Syrup

My family changed its baklava syrup during Christmas. It involved orange, cinnamon, maybe cloves. I don't quite remember and the recipe got lost! I've tried to figure out what everyone did. It may have died with my grandmother. Her sister is still alive but she never really cooked so has no clue.

I don't know where to start, but I've had a few failed attempts:

- Attempt 1 - Made syrup only from sugar and added orange zest, cinnamon stick, and a few cloves. It tasted bitter and too pungent.
- Attempt 2 - Reduced some of the sugar and water and added honey instead.
- Attempt 3 - Kept the sugar/honey proportions, eliminated the clove, and added an extra cinnamon stick.

Attempt 3 got closer. I feel like I am on a wild goose chase. Did anyone else's families change things up for their baklava around Christmas?

Greek-Inspired Charcuterie Board for a Party

I’m planning a party and want to create a stunning Greek-inspired charcuterie board as the centerpiece. I’d love your advice on what must-haves to include to make it authentically Greek and visually appealing.

So far, I’m thinking of adding feta cheese, Kalamata olives, dolmades, and pita bread. Should I include other cheeses like graviera or kasseri? What dips would you recommend besides tzatziki? I’m also looking for ideas on incorporating meats or seafood—maybe cured meats or marinated anchovies?

Additionally, any tips on arranging everything so it looks inviting would be amazing. Should I stick to traditional items or add a creative twist?

Greek Lentil Soup - Recipe Question

I have a question about a lentil soup recipe I've been using. A few questions actually. Here's the ingredients list:
  • 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes, grated)
  • 4 cups water
  • 1-2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
First of all, I don't always remember to rinse the lentils. Is that bad?

Second, I am debating whether the garlic cloves add anything to it, or if I should skip.

Third, I tend to add tomato paste sometimes. When I do, the vinegar tastes weird. Can I omit the vinegar in this case?

Thanks!
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