They enhance taste, and are responsible for the most delicious smells that come from a traditional Greek kitchen. Learn about the individual herbs that are perennial favorites of the best Greek cooks. Arugula – Roka Basil – Vasilikos Bay Leaf – Dafni Dill – Anithos Fennel – Marathos Marjoram – Mantzourana Mint – Dyosmos Nutmeg – Moschokarido Oregano – Rigani Parsley – Maidanos Purslane – Glistrida Rosemary – Dentrolivano Sage – Faskomilo […]

Another difference that distinguishes the ancient Greek diet from that of Northern Europeans was the consumption of vegetables and fruit in vast quantities. In fact, certain ancient Greeks, such as Plato, Callimachus and the Pythagoreans, strongly advocated vegetarianism. Certainly, the fruit and vegetables consumed by the ancient Greeks were not the same as those avialable […]

Original Recipe: Apicius, #61: Lucanicae: … Teritur piper, cuminum, satureia, ruta, petroselinum, condimentum, bacae lauri, liquamen, et admiscetur pulpa bene tunas ita ut denuo bene cum ipso subtrito fricetur. Cum liquamine admixto, pipere integro et abundanti pinguedine et nucleis incies in intestinum perquam tenuatim perductum, et sic ad fumum suspenditur. Translation: [Lucanian Sausages: … Pepper is ground with […]

Some people say that Retsina, the resinated wine produced in Greece since ancient times, is an acquired taste. I’ll agree – I acquired it immediately. Not everyone agrees – the Epicurious Dictionary describes the flavor as “sappy and turpentinelike”. But cooking expert Sheila Lukinsbreaks ranks and calls it the “quintessential Mediterranean wine”, applauding it as an accompaniment […]

There is an old Greek saying that “ouzo makes the spirit” and this is especially true in Greece. The Greek spirit or kefi (KEH-fee) is found in hearty food, soulful music, and the love of lively conversation. A glass of chilled ouzo is the perfect companion to all of these things. Most people would agree that ouzo […]

More than a Greek drink, it’s a Greek philosophy Ah, ouzo – clear, cool, fragrant, powerful. My first experience with ouzo or oyzo was not in Greece. A friend of mine had a taste for it and proudly introduced me to ouzo over ice, demonstrating its ability to turn cloudy with the cold. I was […]

When teaching others to make this dish, I have often joked that the word pastitsio (pa-STEE-tsee-oh) translates to “messy kitchen” in Greek. I was only kidding, but there is a hint of truth to that statement. The Greek word pastitsio derives from the Italianpasticcio, which loosely translates to a mess or a hodgepodge. Three essential components make […]

I first enjoyed this dish in Athens and couldn’t believe I had never tasted it before. A warm fresh pita is topped with savory kebabs then bathed in a creamy yogurt sauce. On top of that is a savory tomato sauce with some extra paprika sprinkled on top. This can be served with rice pilaf or […]

Shinos – Σχίνος (Pistacia lentiscus) Arbaroriza – Kiouli – Scented pelargonium Marjoram Makes an excellent tea and is widely used as seasoning in cooking. Resembles oregano and combines perfectly with meat, fish and pasta dishes. It aids digestion, helps to lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels, soothes the throat and is diuretic. Oregano The most popular […]

Tender and succulent pork is braised in a white wine sauce with mushrooms. This makes a great dinner entrée that can be made ahead and served with rice pilaf or savory oven-roasted potatoes. Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 1 hour Total Time: 1 hour, 20 minutes Ingredients: 3 lbs. boneless pork shoulder, cut into chunks 3 tbsp. olive oil 3 cloves garlic, minced […]