1) A Pasta Maker This is the pasta machine I use to roll out phyllo dough. It’s very simple and clamps to a table or work surface. I put a folded towel underneath so the work surface doesn’t get scratched. This pasta machine has 10 thickness settings from 1 (thickest) to 10 (thinnest), and makes […]

In Greek: φύλλο, pronounced FEE-lo Freshly made phyllo dough (also spelled “filo”) isalways preferable, and it isn’t difficult. Use a pasta machine to make sheets of thin to thick dough to use for pitas and pastries. The alternative, rolling it out with a rolling pin, takes time and experience to master (see below for special instructions). […]

In Greek: μαγιονέζα, pronounced mah-yoh-NEH-zah Mayonnaise has been the inspiration for many meals in many kitchens, and making it at home means the cook can “doctor” it up according to preference. Like it hot? Add a little cayenne pepper or tabasco to heat it up. Start with the basics… and improvise. Ingredients: 3 egg yolks […]

 Glyko Stafyli me Amygthala In Greek: γλυκό σταφύλι με αμύγδαλα, pronounced ghlee-KOH stah-FEE-lee meh ah-MEEGH-thah-lah This spoon sweet is my family’s favorite. The toasted almonds add a wonderful flavor to the mix. We make it during the September grape harvest, and store it in jars to serve throughout the year. To increase the recipe, multiply […]

In Greek: πετιμέζι, pronounced peh-tee-MEH-zee This is a specialty on the Greek island of Crete and one of the oldest (most ancient) recipes I know. Try this naturally sweet (no sugar added) syrup on yogurt, ice cream, in tea, on pancakes, in baking, and as a topping for snow!. A teaspoon also work wonders for […]

In Greek: μουσταλευριά, pronounced moo-stah-lev-ree-AH Grape must is the juice from pressed grapes before fermentation, and is often used as a sweetener in traditional bread recipes, as well as in the preparation of desserts and candy. This grape must pie is a favorite, especially popular at grape harvest season when the must is fresh. You […]

In Greek: μούστος, pronounced MOO-stohs Moustos is made using the juice squeezed from fresh grapes. In Greece, we make large quantities during the September grape harvest, and it’s a great project for kids. It freezes well, and can be used throughout the year. Moustos is used to make petimezi, a grape syrup known since ancient times that is […]

Drying mint by hanging it for natural air-drying is something not all of us can do, but there is another method that offers good results: in the oven. This method can be used to make mint flakes or dried leaves. Difficulty: Easy Time Required: 2-4 hours Here’s How: Wash the mint thoroughtly and carefully in cold water […]

Whether you run out, or just need a cup or two, making confectioner’s sugar is a simple matter in the blender. This method can be used to make larger quantities, but it is a real time-saver for last-minute needs. Confectioner’s sugar is also known as “powdered sugar” and “icing sugar.” Difficulty: Easy Time Required: 15 minutes Here’s […]

Chicken broth is easy to make, and can be made the traditional way in a stew pot, or in a pressure cooker. Both methods create a broth that works well in Greek recipes. Difficulty: Easy Time Required: 3 hours with pot, 30 minutes with pressure cooker Here’s How: Start with a stewing hen. These produce a much […]