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mastichas09

Active member
Hey everyone! I keep hearing about kontosouvli, especially when people talk about Greek feasts and outdoor grilling, but I realized I’ve never actually had it—or at least, I don’t think I have!

Can someone explain exactly what kontosouvli is? How is it different from regular souvlaki or other grilled meats like gyros or lamb on the spit (ovelias)? Is it always pork, or are there different variations? I’ve seen pictures of huge chunks of meat rotating on a spit and it looks incredible—super juicy and full of flavor.

I’m also curious about how it’s seasoned, how long it takes to cook, and if it’s something people make at home or mostly find at festivals and tavernas. Would love to hear your experiences or tips if you’ve made it before—or where to find the best one if I’m visiting Greece again soon!
 

Greek Open-Fire Grilling (Psistaria Style)

Hey all, just wanted to pick your brains a bit about psistaria-style open-fire grilling. I’ve been around it plenty (family feasts, Easter lamb, late-night souvlaki sessions), but lately I’ve been getting more hands-on and want to refine my setup and technique.

I’m curious what others are doing when it comes to charcoal vs wood, managing heat, and what cuts of meat you swear by for the grill. Are you marinating your lamb or pork overnight or keeping it simple with salt, lemon, and oregano? Do you use a rotating spit (souvla) or just go with grills and skewers?

Also wondering what extras you throw on—do you do loukaniko, whole veggies, bread on the coals?

Love hearing how others approach this. There’s nothing like psistaria vibes, especially with friends, cold beer, and that smoky air. Let’s swap notes and maybe inspire each other before summer kicks in!

Soutzoukakia - An Easy Dinner?

I’ve been thinking about trying my hand at making soutzoukakia (those delicious Greek meatballs in tomato sauce), and I’m wondering—would you consider it an easy dinner to make on a weeknight?

From what I’ve read, the meat mixture is flavored with garlic, cumin, and sometimes cinnamon, then seared and simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Some recipes call for baking, others for pan-frying or simmering directly in the sauce. I’ve also seen versions with wine or bay leaves added for extra flavor.

I’d love to hear how you make yours—do you prep anything in advance to save time? Do you serve it with rice, potatoes, or just bread? Any shortcuts or tricks that make it faster but still flavorful?

I’m aiming for something comforting but not too labor-intensive for a busy evening, and soutzoukakia seems like a good option. What do you think?

What's your favorite Greek wine?

I’m looking to expand my Greek wine knowledge and would love your input—what’s your favorite Greek wine?

I’ve tried a few well-known ones like Assyrtiko from Santorini and Agiorgitiko from Nemea, and I really enjoyed them both. But I know there’s so much more out there, from island varieties to mountain-grown grapes and even sweet dessert wines like Vinsanto.

Whether it’s white, red, rosé, or something sparkling or rare, I’d love to hear what you love and why. Do you drink it with certain foods? Buy it locally or abroad?

I’m especially curious about regional wines I may not have heard of—always excited to discover a new favorite! Thanks in advance for your suggestions!

Cooking Wild Greens Greek Style

I grew up eating wild greens (horta) the traditional Greek way—boiled until tender, then dressed simply with olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt. It’s one of those comfort foods that reminds me of home, and I still make it this way all the time.

Lately, I’ve been wondering—do other people prepare horta differently? Are there any regional variations or little tricks that elevate the flavor? I’ve heard of some people sautéing the greens after boiling or adding garlic, but I’ve never tried it myself.

Also curious what kinds of greens you use. I usually go with dandelion or chicory, but sometimes I mix in kale or mustard greens if I can’t find the wild stuff.

Would love to hear how you make yours—same simple prep, or do you spice it up? Open to new ideas while still keeping that traditional feel!

Different kinds of Greek Olives?

Hi everyone! I’m Greek and absolutely love Kalamata olives—they’ve always been my go-to. But lately, I’ve been thinking about how many other types of Greek olives there must be that I’ve barely explored. I know I’ve tasted different kinds while traveling through various regions of Greece, especially in Crete and the Peloponnese, but I never really paid attention to the names or varieties.

I’d love to learn more about the different types of Greek olives out there—like what they’re called, where they’re from, how they’re cured, and what they taste like. Are there any lesser-known ones I should try? Maybe some that are milder, spicier, or especially good for cooking or snacking?

If you have favorites beyond Kalamata or know of any regional varieties worth seeking out, please share! I'd love to expand my olive knowledge (and my mezze platter). Thanks so much in advance!
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