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dimi_pat

Active member
I know that different regions of Greece produce completely distinct types of honey and it’s made me realize how little I would love to take some home with me next time I go to Greece!

I’m planning a trip soon and would love to bring back a few jars that really showcase the regional flavors. I’ve heard that pine honey from Evia and fir honey from Mount Mainalo are incredible, while Ikaria and Thassos also have their loyal fans.

Which region do you think produces the best? And are there any local beekeepers, small brands, or village markets you’d recommend visiting? I’d love to taste something truly authentic and distinct to its land.
 
Greek honey varies so much by region, and each has its own personality. Friends of mine swear by the pine honey from Evia, thick, resinous, and beautifully earthy, while others love the dark, aromatic fir honey from Mount Mainalo in the Peloponnese. Personally, I’ve always been drawn to thyme honey from Crete or Kythera. It’s lighter in color, intensely floral, and captures that sun-drenched island scent perfectly.

If you want something really authentic, look for local cooperatives or village beekeepers instead of supermarket brands. In Crete, the markets in Chania and Rethymno have stalls where you can taste before buying. On the mainland, Arcadia and Evia are both fantastic regions to visit small producers directly. Many families sell honey straight from their homes or roadside stands — those are often the jars that end up being the most unforgettable souvenirs.
 

How do you make your tzatziki creamier?

I make Greek food all the time, spanakopita, keftedes, souvlaki, you name it — but I’ve always taken the shortcut and bought my tzatziki ready-made. Lately I’ve been wanting to make it from scratch and get that rich, creamy texture you find in good tavernas.

I’ve tried a few recipes with strained Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice, but mine keeps turning out too thin or slightly watery after a few hours. I strain the cucumber and even use full-fat yogurt, but it still doesn’t have that thick, velvety consistency.

So I’m curious — what’s your secret to creamier tzatziki? Do you use a specific brand of yogurt, or maybe add something like sour cream or labneh? Does chilling it overnight make a difference? I’d love to hear how you make yours stay thick, fresh, and perfectly balanced between tangy and smooth.

Potatoes in Moussaka?

For some reason, my family’s version of moussaka has never included potatoes, and I’m starting to wonder if I’ve been missing something all these years! We’ve always layered it with eggplant, a bit of zucchini, meat sauce, and béchamel, no potatoes. But lately I’ve seen so many recipes (especially from northern Greece) that add a layer of sliced or fried potatoes at the bottom, and people swear it gives the dish more structure and heartiness.

For those who make moussaka regularly — do you include potatoes? If so, where do you place them in the layering: bottom, middle, or alternating with the eggplant? Do they change the texture or make it too heavy? I love the idea of experimenting but don’t want to lose that light, custardy feel of our version. I’d love to hear how your families make it and whether the potato layer is a must!

What is the perfect skordalia texture?

Lately I’ve been experimenting with skordalia, and I’m starting to realize just how many different versions there really are. Some people swear by a silky, almost whipped texture, while others prefer it thick and rustic, the kind you can practically stand a spoon in. I’ve tried both bread-based and potato-based versions, and the results couldn’t be more different. Bread seems to give it a lighter, fluffier feel, while potatoes make it dense and hearty.

But here’s my question for everyone who makes this regularly: What is the perfect texture supposed to be? Is true skordalia meant to be smooth and airy, or thick and substantial? Should the garlic be fully integrated, or is a tiny bit of graininess acceptable? I know it's personal preference, too.

How to cook gigantes beans without them splitting?

I make gigantes all the time and they never split apart. I taught someone to make them, and they keep splitting! I swear I told this person everything, but I don't think I did, otherwise hers wouldn't split.

What is going on? What are some of the reasons for the split? I am to the best at explaining recipes because some things I do are automatic. But I have been cooking for most of my life and she's new to cooking. What do you think?

Greek things to do with butternut squash?

Hi everyone! I’m curious about traditional (or regional) Greek ways to cook with butternut squash. My aunt used to make an incredible kolokythopita with it — sweet, earthy, and a little reminiscent of butternut squash pie filling, but wrapped in crisp phyllo instead of a pastry crust. It was one of those dishes that tasted both rustic and festive at the same time.

I’m wondering what else Greeks typically do with butternut squash, especially in home cooking. Are there savory versions of the pie? Any stews, ladera, or casseroles that feature it? Does anyone use it in soups, risottos, or baked dishes? I’d also love to know if certain regions in Greece cook with butternut squash more often than others.

Would love to hear your ideas, family recipes, and regional traditions!
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