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kcixcy

Active member
Every time I visit Greece, I can’t resist buying some of that beautiful Greek saffron (Krokos Kozanis). It’s such a special ingredient, and I know it’s prized for its flavor and health benefits, but here’s the thing—I never really know what to do with it!

I’ve used saffron in some non-Greek recipes, like risotto and paella, but I’d love to learn how it’s traditionally used in Greek cuisine. Are there any classic Greek dishes that feature saffron? Or maybe modern Greek recipes where it works well?

I’d really appreciate any tips or ideas on how to incorporate it into Greek-inspired meals. Thanks!
 
Greek saffron, or Krokos Kozanis, is a great addition to Greek cuisine and a unique addition to some dishes. While it’s not as commonly featured in traditional Greek recipes as, say, oregano or thyme, it does make its way into several delightful dishes.

For a traditional take, try adding saffron to giouvetsi (orzo baked with meat in a tomato-based sauce). A pinch of saffron can elevate the dish with an aromatic depth. It’s also wonderful in seafood soups like psarosoupa, where it enhances the broth’s richness.

For something modern, saffron pairs beautifully with Greek yogurt. Infuse the yogurt with saffron and honey for a decadent dessert or topping.

You can also drink it as a tea and it tastes amazing with honey!
 

Can you make stifado with Octopus?

I’ve made beef and rabbit stifado plenty of times, but I recently heard someone mention an octopus version and now I’m intrigued. Has anyone here actually tried making octopus stifado? I imagine the texture and cooking time would be really different from meat, but I love the idea of combining that tender, slow-cooked octopus with the rich, cinnamon-spiced tomato sauce and pearl onions.

Would you cook the octopus separately first and then add it to the sauce? Or do you let it stew the whole time like you would with beef or rabbit? I have vaguely heard of it being possible to make this with octopus. Now that it's summer I am in the mood to eat lots of seafood.

Summer Meze for a Guy's Night?

I’m hosting a casual guy’s night next weekend and want to keep the food simple but solid. Thinking of going all-in on a summer Greek meze spread instead of doing a big main course. Cold beers, good music, and a table full of small plates sounds perfect for the heat.

I’ve got a few ideas already: spicy tirokafteri, grilled loukaniko, some fried zucchini with skordalia, maybe dolmades and olives. I’ll probably throw some grilled pita on the side and maybe a Greek salad too.

But I’d love to hear your go-to suggestions. What would you put out on the table for a group of guys hanging out on a warm summer evening? Anything easy to prep ahead or serve at room temp would be great. Bonus points for meat-heavy meze or something you can grill.

Making Crispy Greek Fries Tips?

I’m trying to master homemade Greek fries, you know, the kind that are golden, crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and loaded with oregano and sea salt. I’ve had them in tavernas in Greece and nothing I’ve made at home comes close.

I’ve tried both russets and Yukon Golds, but I’m not sure about the best type of potato for this. Do you parboil first or go straight to frying? I’ve also read some people do a double-fry method — is that key to the crunch?

Also curious about oils, olive oil vs. sunflower vs. something else entirely. And how do you get them to stay crispy if you’re making a big batch for a crowd?

Best Meat for Soutsoukakia?

I’m planning to make soutzoukakia smyrneika this weekend — one of my absolute favorite Greek comfort dishes. I’ve had it with different types of ground meat over the years (sometimes beef, sometimes a mix), but I want to get it just rightthis time and could use your advice.

What’s the best type of meat to use for authentic, flavorful soutzoukakia? Should I go with 100% beef, a beef-pork combo, or even add a bit of lamb? Or purely lamb? I’m also curious how the fat content affects the final result — do you go lean or a little more fatty?

Fava Santorinis Recipe to Enjoy

I had this when I was in Santorini and I loved it. I tracked down a recipe and wanted to share!

Ingredients:​

  • 1 cup yellow split peas (ideally from Santorini, if available)
  • 1 small red or yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional but adds depth)
  • 4 cups water (plus more as needed)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh lemon juice (about 1 tablespoon, or to taste)

Instructions:​

  1. Rinse and soak (optional):
    Rinse the yellow split peas well under cool water. Soaking is optional, but if you do soak for 2–3 hours, the cooking time will be shorter.
  2. Cook the peas:
    In a pot, add the split peas, chopped onion, garlic, bay leaf, and water. Bring to a boil, skimming any foam that rises to the surface.
  3. Simmer:
    Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 40–50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are soft and starting to fall apart. Add more water if needed to prevent sticking.
  4. Remove bay leaf & blend:
    When the peas are soft and the mixture looks thick and mushy, remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender (or food processor) to purée until smooth. Add olive oil and blend again. Taste and add salt and lemon juice.
  5. Chill or serve warm:
    You can serve it warm, room temperature, or chilled — all are traditional!
  6. Garnish:
    Drizzle with extra olive oil and top with red onion slices, capers, and parsley.

I serve it with other meze with pita triangles for dipping!
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