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kcixcy

Active member
I have been trying to develop an intuitive feel for Greek cooking. One of the dishes I have been trying to test these principals on is keftedes. I have made them a few different ways ... First of all, sometimes I use different meats or different combinations of meats. I have used beef, pork, lamb, and combinations of these. I am the same way with herbs used in the mix - sometimes I use spearmint, parsley, oregano, I tried dill once (didn't like it).

I have done so much experimenting that I have lost sight ... what are Greek keftedes really? Talking with people, I realize that the recipes differ greatly depending on the family.
 
I have been trying to develop an intuitive feel for Greek cooking. One of the dishes I have been trying to test these principals on is keftedes. I have made them a few different ways ... First of all, sometimes I use different meats or different combinations of meats. I have used beef, pork, lamb, and combinations of these. I am the same way with herbs used in the mix - sometimes I use spearmint, parsley, oregano, I tried dill once (didn't like it).

I have done so much experimenting that I have lost sight ... what are Greek keftedes really? Talking with people, I realize that the recipes differ greatly depending on the family.
Add hamburg, egg and sliced bread to a bowl. Add spearmint and parsley. Mix by hand. Pick up 2 inch balls. Fry in olive oil. That's what Ma did. Simple and simply delicious. :)
 
Add hamburg, egg and sliced bread to a bowl. Add spearmint and parsley. Mix by hand. Pick up 2 inch balls. Fry in olive oil. That's what Ma did. Simple and simply delicious. :)
That sounds so good! Very traditional.
 
I would say that we always need spearmint and onions, and sometimes parsley. I use bread or bread crumbs. I have baked them but it isn't the same. To me, they need to be fried.
 

Greek Halva Recipe to Enjoy During Lent?

I love Halva year round but I often see it a lot during Lent. My recipe doesn't seem Lent friendly to me. Any ideas on how I can adapt it?

Ingredients:
  • 1 cup semolina
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup chopped almonds or walnuts (optional)
  • 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions:
  1. In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the semolina to the melted butter and stir continuously for about 5-7 minutes, or until the semolina turns golden brown and begins to emit a nutty aroma.
  3. While stirring the semolina mixture, gradually add the sugar and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sugar is fully incorporated.
  4. Slowly pour in the water, stirring constantly to avoid lumps from forming. Be careful as the mixture may splatter.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and continue stirring the mixture until it thickens to a porridge-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Stir in the ground cinnamon and optional chopped nuts and raisins, if using.
  7. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the halva rest for a few minutes to thicken further.
  8. Serve the halva warm or at room temperature, either as a dessert or a sweet breakfast treat.

Current food trends in Greece?

I understand that Greece is just like other countries where there might be food trends, new dishes, etc to enjoy.

I'm looking to understand more about the latest trends that are currently shaping it. I'm particularly interested in how traditional Greek recipes are being reimagined by modern chefs, how regional variations are gaining popularity, or if there's a rise in any particular ingredients or cooking methods.

Is anyone here keeping tabs on contemporary movements in Greek food? Maybe you've dined at a restaurant that surprised you with a modern twist on a Greek classic, or you've come across new food blogs with innovative recipes.

The cuisine of Greece is as much about the traditional recipes we all love as it is the trends and the way the cuisine moves forward!

Stuffed grape leaves - how much filling?

I haven't made stuffed grape leaves in a while and I have some questions.

First of all, I am having a hard time judging how much filling to put in each leaf? I have a friend who helped me and tried to explain. She'd put a teaspoon of filling in the leaf, then add or subtract more after looking at it. She's quick rolling, and I have no idea how she knows how much filling.

And she really couldn't explain it - just said that you have to look at it and it's by feel. It sounds like my yiayia and she's younger than me! I told her that and she just shrugged. She tried to talk me through it as we were rolling together but it seemed so random to me.

What is the best street food in Greece?

What do you consider the best street food in Greece? Are there any specific dishes or local delicacies that you dream of having again? Also, if you have recommendations for particular places or vendors, that would be fantastic!

Here's what I've got on my list so far:
  • Souvlaki
  • Gyros
  • Loukoumades
  • Spanakopita
  • Bougatsa
But I'd like to go beyond the usual and try the real local flavors that might not be as famous internationally. I'm open to suggestions from all over Greece. I have an idea of what I like but want to see what others say.

How to learn about different regional cuisines in Greece?

I have learned so much about Greek cuisine by being on this forum! I know that there are standard recipes that everyone seems to cook.

For example, you can get souvlaki all over. Everyone seems to serve a village salad with slight variations. Most regions seem to make moussaka. There are tons of others.

I have also noticed that each region has their own specialties. How do you go about learning about them?

greek-salad.jpg
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