Charcoal Grilled Octopus
Htapódi sta Karvouna stands out as a signature Greek seafood dish, beloved in coastal tavernas from the islands to the mainland. On a warm summer evening by the Aegean, this octopus arrives on the table just off the grill, exuding the heady aroma of smoke and salt. The tentacles are charred at the edges and tender inside, their flesh glossy…
Youvarlakia Avgolemono
Youvarlakia are traditional Greek soup dumplings — small meatballs made with ground meat and rice, cooked in a tangy lemon broth. This dish is especially popular in the winter months and at festive family meals. The name youvarlakia comes from a Turkish word for little balls. When made avgolemono, the soup is enriched and brightened by whisked eggs and lemon…
Lahanodolmades Avgolemono
In this recipe, whole cabbage leaves are parboiled until soft, then each is filled with a herbed meat-and-rice mixture and rolled into a neat cigar shape. The rolls are packed into a pot and simmered gently in broth and olive oil until everything is tender. An avgolemono (egg-lemon) sauce is prepared by whisking eggs with lemon juice and tempering it…
Soutzoukakia Smyrneika
Greek soutzoukakia are spiced cumin meatballs simmered in a savory tomato sauce. The oblong meatballs are first fried until lightly browned, then cooked in a sauce with onions, garlic, and fragrant spices like cinnamon and allspice. Ready in about an hour, this Asia Minor-style dish makes for a hearty, comforting supper. Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to…
Moschari Kokkinisto
Moschari Kokkinisto is a classic Greek comfort stew enjoyed in households across the country. The name kokkinisto means "red-cooked," referring to the bright tomato-based sauce in which the meat simmers. In this rustic recipe, bite-sized chunks of beef (or traditional veal) are slowly braised with onions, garlic, red wine, and warm spices. The result is a deeply flavorful dish with…
Greek Bifteki
Bifteki holds a cherished place at Greek grillhouses and family gatherings. These seasoned beef patties, often shaped into oblong burgers, bring together familiar grill flavors with a distinctly Mediterranean twist. At first bite one encounters a symphony of aromatic herbs and spices — typically oregano, parsley, and a hint of garlic — that infuse the meat with bright, savory notes.…
Bamies Laderes
Bamies laderes (okra stewed in tomato and olive oil) is an unexpected delight for those who give it a chance. Fresh okra pods, often associated with Southern cooking, find a new voice in this Greek dish. Here, they’re simmered slowly in a bright, tangy tomato sauce with plenty of olive oil. The result? A texture that is silky rather than…
Gigantes Plaki
Gigantes plaki is a beloved Greek comfort dish that feels like a warm embrace on a cool evening. Its name literally means “giants on the plate,” referring to the large shell-beans (gigantes) it stars. These giant butter beans are simmered and then baked in a lush tomato and olive oil sauce until velvety soft. The process is slow and patient,…
Astakomakaronada
Tender chunks of lobster are simmered in a vibrant tomato sauce with garlic, onions, white wine, and herbs, then tossed with al dente pasta. A generous drizzle of olive oil adds richness, while a pinch of oregano or chili provides a subtle kick. The final dish showcases a balance of sweet seafood and savory tomato, perfect with a side of…
Greek Pocketless Flatbread
Greek pita is a soft, pocketless flatbread made from a simple dough of flour, yeast, water, and olive oil (often with a touch of yogurt or milk). These homemade rounds bake up warm and pillowy, perfect for wraps, dips, or any Mediterranean dish. Each pita puffs slightly on the hot skillet, creating a tender interior. Ready in about 30 minutes,…
