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I tried to explain to one of my non-Greek friends how to work with phyllo and failed.

We watched this video together and it was perfect. I thought I'd share in case anyone needs this info!

 
Working with phyllo is super tricky. The key for me is to not panic and work as quickly as I can. If a sheet rips, it's not the end of the world you can't even tell once it bakes. That's the big thing.
 

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.

Getting grilled octopus tender?

Hey all, I could use some advice. I absolutely love Greek-style grilled octopus—tender, smoky, a little charred, and drizzled with olive oil and lemon. I’ve been trying to recreate it at home, but my early attempts haven’t been quite right. The flavor’s there, but the texture is tough or rubbery, and I know that’s not how it’s supposed to be.

What’s the secret to getting it tender before grilling? I’ve heard everything from boiling it in vinegar water, to freezing it first, to slow braising it. Some say marinate, others say don’t. I’d really appreciate any tips—especially from people who’ve actually managed to get that perfect tender-crisp balance. Do you cook it first, and for how long, or go straight to the grill? I’d love to get this right!

Favorite 5 Greek Dishes?

If you could narrow it down to five dishes, what would be your favorites? Here are mine:

1. Koulourakia
2. Souvlaki
3. Horiatiki (village salad)
4. Keftedes
5. Pastitsio

How about you? Looking forward to seeing your responses! I am doing this to get out of my comfort zone a bit and see if I can't get inspired to cook some new dishes.

Making tzatziki in advance?

I’m planning to make tzatziki for a party and would love some advice on making it ahead of time. I’ve noticed that when it sits in the fridge too long, the garlic can become really intense—sometimes even overpowering. I love a garlicky tzatziki, but I don’t want it to turn bitter or sharp by the time guests arrive.

How far in advance can I safely make tzatziki without the flavor becoming too strong or the texture going watery? Are there any tips for keeping it fresh—like straining the yogurt longer, or waiting to add the garlic or cucumber until the last minute?

Any tricks for keeping the flavor balanced if it’s stored overnight or for a full day?

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.
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