Waquar Habib
The Greek culinary scene features fresh, local ingredients like olive oil, seafood, and herbs. Influenced by ancient traditions and Mediterranean flavours, it emphasises simplicity and quality. Iconic dishes reflect Greece's rich history, creating a unique gastronomic identity.
Moussaka is a layered casserole dish originating from the Middle East and brought to Greece by the Arabs. It features eggplant, ground meat, and béchamel sauce. The dish gained prominence in Greece in the 1920s through the efforts of chef Nikolaos Tselementes.
Souvlaki is a Greek dish of skewered and grilled meat, typically pork or chicken, served with pita, vegetables, and tzatziki. It's a quick and flavourful street food that represents Greek culinary traditions.
Spanakopita is a spinach and feta cheese pie wrapped in a flaky phyllo pastry of Byzantine origins. This savoury Greek pastry is enjoyed as a snack or appetizer due to its crisp texture and rich filling.
Tzatziki is a yogurt-based dip with cucumber, garlic, and olive oil. It is traditionally served as a meze or side dish. It pairs well with grilled meats and vegetables and is perfect for hot Mediterranean climates.
Dolmades are vine leaves stuffed with rice, pine nuts, and herbs, a legacy of the Ottoman Empire. They can be served warm or cold, often with lemon wedges, encapsulating the essence of Greek hospitality and the intricate art of Greek mezze.
Baklava is a rich, sweet pastry made of phyllo dough, nuts, and honey syrup, originally from Ottoman kitchens. It showcases Greece's intricate dessert-making skills and is perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Greek Salad, or Horiatiki, is a simple dish with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and onions, dressed with olive oil and oregano. It embodies the freshness of Greek ingredients and is a staple in Greek meals, reflecting the country's agricultural roots.
Gemista means "stuffed" and refers to vegetables like tomatoes and bell peppers filled with rice, herbs, and sometimes meat. It's a popular summer dish in Greek households, highlighting the use of seasonal, locally sourced produce in Greek tradition.
Pastitsio is a Greek dish similar to lasagna. It is made with pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, and béchamel. It was influenced by Italian cuisine during Venetian rule and is often enjoyed as a comforting and hearty meal during holidays and celebrations.
Kleftiko is a slow-cooked lamb marinated with garlic, lemon, and herbs. It is named after the bandits who cooked it in sealed pits to avoid detection. This method locks in flavours, producing tender, aromatic meat and symbolises Greece's culinary heritage.