What are the must-try Greek comfort foods?

Must-try Greek comfort foods

What is the one thing that brings Greek people together? The one thing that’s the most common characteristic of Greek culture? Well, food of course! Greeks take their cooking seriously. It’s not just a way to get all the necessary energy and nutrition to them. It’s also about flavor!! In a previous blog post, we talked about the typical Greek dinners. But what about the dishes that Greeks consume when they want to feel at home? The meals that scream comfort to them? Well, this article is all about finding out what are the must-try Greek comfort foods!

Giouvarlakia

This is one of the dishes that is best consumed during a cold day or night. Fall and winter call for this traditional Greek meatball soup. Giouvarlakia consists of meatballs that have rice in them. It is cooked on the stove on low heat, and in the end, the entire soup is covered with a sauce made out of egg and lemon juice. Greek gastronomy, it is all about simplicity and fresh organic ingredients and giouvarlakia is the epitome of that notion. It might not be a beauty to look at, but it’s so tasteful that it will only leave you wanting more!

Gigantes

Gigantes or large beans is a typical Greek comfort dish and a twist to the classic ‘baked beans’. They are considered a spicy dish as they are served with ‘boukovo’ the Greek kind of red pepper flakes. Legumes and beans are a big part of Greek cuisine. And they might be considered a food fo the poor but we can guarantee that Greeks know how to make them taste like they are the most expensive ingredient! You can’t say no to this amazingly healthy and tasty vegan Greek dish!

Spanakopita: A Flaky and Savory Delight

Spanakopita, a staple in Greek cuisine, is a flaky and savory delight that ranks high among comfort foods. This traditional dish features layers of buttery phyllo pastry enveloping a delectable filling of spinach and feta cheese. The combination of earthy spinach and creamy feta creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both comforting and satisfying. Biting into a slice of spanakopita is like wrapping yourself in a warm culinary hug, making it a must-try Greek comfort food.

Read more: A whole new world: The Greek Pie

The crispness of the golden phyllo pastry provides a delightful contrast to the lusciousness of the spinach and feta filling. Each bite releases a burst of flavors, from the saltiness of the feta cheese to the subtle sweetness of the sautéed spinach. Spanakopita is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course. Its irresistible aroma and the satisfying crunch of each bite make it an ultimate comfort food that will transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched Mediterranean shores.

Pastitsio

We bet you already know and love moussaka, one of the most famous food in Greece! But what about pastitsio? It is really similar in the way it’s layered and baked to our beloved moussaka. But pastitsio consists of pasta – usually long thick spaghetti – and a bolognese pasta sauce, topped with a rich, cheesy bechamel. There is not a Greek that doesn’t love pastitsio and most Sunday family meals have pastitsio as the ‘piece de resistance’. And we are completely fine with this! Next time you are at a Greek tavern order pastitsio instead of moussaka. WARNING! You might want seconds!

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Octopus with pasta or in Greek ‘xtapodi me kofto makaronaki’

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Food Tours in Greece: Exploring Culinary Delights

For food enthusiasts eager to dive deeper into the culinary treasures of Greece, embarking on a food tour is an excellent way to experience the diverse flavors and regional specialties of the country. Here are some food tours that offer a tantalizing exploration of Greek cuisine:

• Athens Street Food Tour:This 3-hour small-group street-food tour through Athens’ finest culinary hotspots will help you find the greatest street food in town.
• Heraklion Market Food Tour: The perfect way to learn about the city’s rich history and cultural influences while sampling some of the best local foods.
• Naxos Walking Food Tour: A great way to explore the town, and discover its long history. Don’t miss your chance to explore Naxos island with us!
• Nafplio Food Tour: A unique opportunity to sample regional spirits and flavors in Greece’s oldest city. This is one tour you won’t want to miss!

Embarking on a food tour in Greece provides a unique opportunity to delve into the culinary heritage and traditions of this richly diverse country. From the bustling streets of Athens to the tranquil islands and picturesque countryside, each tour promises to tantalize your taste buds and create unforgettable gastronomic memories. So, don’t miss the chance to embark on a culinary adventure and discover the hidden gems of Greek cuisine through these enticing food tours.

 

Greek Comfort Food in a Nutshell

In conclusion, Greek comfort foods encompass a diverse range of flavors and textures that have captivated food lovers around the world. From the simplicity of Greek salads to the richness of tomato-based dishes like Greek meatballs, these dishes evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia. The use of ingredients like feta cheese, creamy tzatziki sauce, fresh herbs, and Greek yogurt adds an authentic touch to the flavors of these traditional Greek dishes.

Whether you’re savoring a bowl of warm Greek chicken soup on a chilly day or indulging in the crispy goodness of Greek fried cheese, each bite is an invitation to experience the warmth and hospitality of Greek cuisine. So, take a culinary adventure and embrace the joy of Greek comfort foods that will transport you to the heart of Greece with every delicious bite. Opa!

Greece has a plethora of fresh seafood. Don’t leave Greece unless you try a meal like that.