Greece is steeped in thousands of years of history, a land which ranges from almost barren mountain sides with just a few trees sprouting through the craggy face to lush valleys which roll down into plains and on to the gorgeous azure seas of the Aegean and Mediterranean. As such, Greeks have had plenty of time to refine their cuisine from the ancient Greeks love of the humble olive, fig and honey to traditional dishes like spit roast lamb and modern haute cuisine gastronomic. Greece has it all to offer and does so in abundance! Spectacular seafood, the freshest vegetables, anguine wines and desserts you just can’t get enough of. Greece is home to some of the world’s finest fresh ingredients and they are celebrated in a plethora of wonderful dishes.
Traditional Greek dishes are flavoursome and packed with a variety of fresh and dried herbs. Here are our top 10 Greek dishes that you must taste when you travel to Greece.
Loukoumades
Loukoumades are small fried doughnut-like balls drenched in honey syrup and sprinkled with various toppings such as cinnamon or crushed walnuts. People will usually order a large plate of them to share with friends or family.
Moussaka
Probably the most famous of Greek dishes, moussaka consists of layers of fried aubergine, minced meat and potatoes, topped with a creamy béchamel sauce and then baked until golden brown. Some Greek restaurants will also serve an equally delectable vegetarian version.
Galaktoboureko
These sweet custard slices are made with layers of flaky phyllo pastry and sprinkled with cinnamon. Definitely worth a visit to Greece alone, even if you don’t do anything else. They’re best eaten warm, straight from the oven.
Pastitsio
Similar to Italian lasagne, but made with small macaroni instead of pasta sheets, this is Greek comfort food at its best. Pastitsio is made by layering ground beef or lamb with macaroni and béchamel sauce and is often flavoured with cinnamon, nutmeg and Greek herbs. Sometimes it’s also topped with grated cheese before being baked in the oven.
Koulouri
Walk around any of the big Greek cities such as Athens or Thessaloniki in the mornings and you’ll often see locals on their way to work munching on koulouri – large soft bread rings covered in sesame seeds. They’re often sold from yellow street carts and eaten on the go with a cup of coffee.
Fasolatha
Another of Greece’s national dishes, although not so well known internationally, is a classic white bean soup. It’s a simple, yet hearty affair consisting of beans, crushed tomatoes, and vegetables such as onions, carrots and celery. It’s often flavoured with thyme, parsley and bay leaves.
Souvlaki
Perennially popular all over the world, these grilled meat (usually pork) skewers are often served with tzatziki (a sauce made from yoghurt, cucumber and mint), pita bread, salad or rice.
Spanakopita
The Greeks love their pies and you can find many varieties, from those made with enriched dough to those made from flaky phyllo (also filo) pastry and filled with anything from aubergines or meat to greens or cheese. The most classic is the spanakopita – phyllo pastry layered with feta cheese and spinach and flavoured with dill. Another favourite is tyropita – crunchy phyllo pastry wrapped around a savoury cheese filling.
Dolmades
Dolmades are a typical Greek side dish. They are made of vine or grape leaves stuffed with herby, lemony rice and folded over to create a small parcel and then steamed. You can also find them filled with meat or vegetarian with rice only.
Taramasalata
Taramasalata refers to a traditional Greek dish made from tarama, the salted and cured roe of cod, carp, or grey mullet fish. It’s eaten as a type of meze or spread with bread. Taramasalata is traditionally prepared in a mortar and pestle. The roe is mashed into a grainy paste with olive oil, lemon juice, bread (or potatoes), and other ingredients. It can vary in colour from creamy beige to pink depending on the type of roe and ingredients used.
The Greek Deli
Visit our dedicated e-shop and check out our plethora of delicious Greek food items. Available both for cooking as well as immediate consumption. The Greek Deli stocks artisanal products, including Greek juices, tsoureki, egg dyes, olive oils, wines, cheeses, and mezedes. In addition, ready meals (such as pastitsio and gemista), sweets (such as baklava and kourabiedes), and Greek coffee (Loumidis) can be found in our online shop. We even stock beloved Greek chocolates and cookies. Furthermore, brands such as Lacta, Ion, Sokofreta, and Gemista cookies, as well as an impressive selection of Greek wines. You can purchase and customise our unique Greek gift boxes, with your favourite products or pre-made. One box includes extra virgin olive oil, two bottles of wine and two jars of olive paste. Along with roasted peppers, honey, chilies, and balsamic vinegar. Perfect for sending the best of Greek tastes to a distant beloved!).
Accompanied by the very best of what Greek nature has to offer. We find our way into your homes and into your hearts. The Greek Deli has maximized our efforts so our deliveries are swift and provided in a safe and hygienic manner!
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