Greek name and pronunciation: kymino, κύμινο, pronounced KEE-mee-no At the market: Ground cumin is the form most widely used, and is available in sprinkle-pour spice containers. Physical characterisitcs: Ground cumin is a yellowish-brown color with a strong (not hot) taste and aroma. The cumin plant prefers a warm and humid climate, and grows 6 to […]

Soutsoukakia ‘The Mediterranean diet is currently considered by Nutritionists as a modus vivende that endows people with longevity and sound health, with Crete at its epicentre, as supported by research conducted on an international scale.’ These cumin-flavoured meatballs may be casseroled or oven-baked with potatoes – here is the oven version. Ingredients: 500g minced meat (lamb […]

Ingredients: 1 kilo of lamb 1 1/2 kilo of onions sliced 5-6 potatoes cut in cubes 6-7 tomatoes sliced 1 tbsp of tomato paste 1/4 cup of olive oil Ground cumin Salt and pepper to taste Method: Cut the lamb meat into small pieces. Peel, wash and cut the potatoes into cubes. Peel and slice […]

Pastitsatha was the traditional Sunday meal of Corfu’s well-to-do. It was almost always made with free-range cock or with turkey, which Corfiotes hold in particularly high esteem. Thick tubular spaghetti is needed for this dish. According to island cooks, a proper pastitsatha requires no fewer than 9 spices: allspice, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, nutmeg, paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Makes 4 to […]

In Greek: χούμους με ταχίνι (pronounced HOO-mooss meh tah-HEE-nee) This dip is quick and easy to make, delicious, and healthy. No cooking involved. Just grab the blender and go. Chickpeas (also known as garbanzo beans) and tahini (a paste made from roasted sesame seeds) combine to make a tasty appetizer to serve with wedges of […]

This recipe for Lentil and Rice Pilaf features the versatile brown lentil and pairs it with savory herbs, spices, and densely nutritious Kale. If Kale is unavailable, you can substitute another leafy green such as Swiss Chard. This recipe also meets the strictest fasting restrictions because it does not contain any oil, meat, or dairy. […]

This is a fun party recipe that I’ve adapted from food writer Mark Bittman. If you were expecting scary orange cheese slathered over lackluster tortilla chips, then I’m sorry but you’ll be disappointed. Perfect for the casual get together or even as a light meal, these “nachos” are sure to be a favorite. Prep Time: 30 minutes […]

Moussaka (moo-sah-KAH) is perhaps the most widely recognized Greek dish. This recipe is a result of tinkering with the traditional ingredients to make a lighter, vegetarian moussaka recipe. I wouldn’t recommend trying to whip this up on a busy weeknight as it is still quite time consuming. When you have the time to devote to prepping […]

Fava Beans or Broad beans are known as Koukia(koo-KYAH) in Greek. They are delicious preparedyahnista (yach-nee-STAH) or yahni (yach-NEE) which means they are stewed with tomatoes and onions and spices. Prep Time: 1 hour Cook Time: 1 hour Total Time: 2 hours Yield: 6 – 8 servings Ingredients: 1 lb. dried Fava beans, soaked overnight (see Note) 1/2 cup olive oil 1 large or 2 medium […]

Greek name and pronunciation: moustartha skoni, μουστάρδα σκόνη, pronounced moo-STAR-thah skoh-nee At the market: Powdered mustard is usually available in small sprinkle-pour spice containers. Physical characteristics: When first milled or ground, mustard flour looks and tastes as bland and white as cornstarch. Ground mustard has no aroma or flavor until liquid is added. In powdered […]