1 - 4 of 4 Posts

cubrinj

Active member
I love making skordalia, but I always struggle to get that ultra-creamy, smooth texture like the ones I’ve had at authentic Greek tavernas. Mine tends to turn out either too thick or a bit grainy.

I usually make it with potatoes, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar, but I’ve heard some people use bread instead of potatoes. Does that make a difference in texture? Also, is there a trick to emulsifying the olive oil properly? I worry that I might be adding it too quickly or at the wrong time.

Would love to hear your best tips and techniques for achieving that silky, luscious consistency. Do you have any family secrets or traditional methods that make a difference?
 
Well...my Church family says I make the best. I like Yukon Gold potatoes ( because of their color and creaminess ) , white vinegar , my best olive oil ( for it's taste and color ) , sea salt and freshly ground black pepper ( some use white pepper but I don't like the smell of white pepper ) . Don't over cook your potatoes , just fork tender ! I use my food processor and place all ingredients except for the white vinegar ; I just add little by little until I get that tang. Maybe cutback on the amount of potato. I make up a few jars and place in the fridge and bring out as I need it and serve at room temp.
 
  • Love
Reactions: k_tsoukalas
You can also make skordalia with walnuts and bread which is what my grandmother used to do instead of potatoes.
 
  • Like
Reactions: k_tsoukalas
Well...my Church family says I make the best. I like Yukon Gold potatoes ( because of their color and creaminess ) , white vinegar , my best olive oil ( for it's taste and color ) , sea salt and freshly ground black pepper ( some use white pepper but I don't like the smell of white pepper ) . Don't over cook your potatoes , just fork tender ! I use my food processor and place all ingredients except for the white vinegar ; I just add little by little until I get that tang. Maybe cutback on the amount of potato. I make up a few jars and place in the fridge and bring out as I need it and serve at room temp.
This sounds fantastic - the church family knows a good thing when they see it! Your recipe looks fantastic.

Some tips:

Getting that ultra-creamy skordalia is all about technique! If you're using potatoes, make sure they’re fully cooked and mashed while warm to avoid a grainy texture. A ricer or sieve helps achieve smoothness. The bread version (soaked and squeezed dry) creates a lighter, silkier consistency—definitely worth trying!

For emulsification, slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuously mixing (a food processor or mortar and pestle works best). If added too fast, it can separate. Also, use cold water or a splash of ice-cold vinegar to help loosen and smooth it out.
 

Why are Greek restaurants different outside of Greece?

I’ve noticed that Greek restaurants outside of Greece often serve food that’s slightly different from what you’d find in Greece itself. Dishes might have different ingredients, flavors, or even presentation. Some of these restaurants have been open for decades—could it be that Greece’s cuisine has evolved, but they’ve stuck to an older version of Greek food?

I also wonder if local preferences play a role. Do Greek restaurants abroad adjust their recipes to appeal to the tastes of the country they’re in? Or maybe certain ingredients just aren’t as readily available outside of Greece?

It’s always interesting to compare, and I’m curious to hear what others think. If you’ve traveled to Greece, did you notice a difference? And if you have insights into how Greek food has changed over time, I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Greek Dishes that Include Saffron

I recently got my hands on some high-quality Greek saffron (Krokos Kozanis), and I’d love to incorporate it into some authentic Greek dishes. I know it’s used in certain seafood and rice dishes, but I’d love to hear from those who have experience cooking with it.

What are some traditional Greek recipes that feature saffron? Are there any specific techniques or tips for bringing out its best flavor? I’d also love to know if there are any regional specialties that use it in a unique way.

Bonus points if you have any recipes for saffron-infused soups, stews, or even desserts! I want to make the most of this amazing ingredient. Looking forward to your suggestions—thanks in advance!

Greek Halva Recipe (with Semolina)

I love Greek Halva - the version with Semolina. I especially like it as a light thing that gives me some sweetness. I am fasting for lent, and it seems that these ingredients can work for a fasting program. Sometimes I just want to eat something a little sweet.

The recipe I use:

Ingredients

For the syrup:
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 3-4 whole cloves
  • 1 strip lemon or orange peel (optional)
For the halva:
  • 1 cup olive oil (or vegetable oil)
  • 2 cups coarse semolina
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus extra for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Syrup
  1. In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, and lemon/orange peel.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes until the sugar dissolves completely.
  3. Remove from heat and discard the cinnamon stick, cloves, and peel. Set aside.
Step 2: Toast the Semolina

4. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
5. Add the semolina and stir continuously for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
6. Stir in the chopped nuts and ground cinnamon.

Step 3: Combine with Syrup

7. Carefully pour the warm syrup into the semolina mixture (caution: it will bubble and steam intensely!).
8. Stir quickly until the mixture thickens and absorbs all the liquid (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 4: Shape and Serve

9. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.
10. Transfer to a greased mold or spoon into individual serving bowls.
11. Let it cool slightly, then sprinkle with extra cinnamon and chopped nuts.

Top Pantry Items for a Greek Kitchen?

I’m looking to stock my pantry with all the essentials for making authentic Greek dishes at home. I know olive oil is a must, but what other ingredients should I always have on hand?

I love cooking everything from meze to hearty stews, so I’d love recommendations on spices, grains, canned goods, and any specialty items that make a big difference in Greek cooking. Also, are there any particular brands or sources you trust for top-quality Greek ingredients?

Bonus points for any storage tips to keep ingredients fresh! I’d love to build a pantry that makes whipping up Greek meals easy and delicious.

Looking forward to your suggestions! Thanks in advance.

Tips for Navigating Being Celiac in Greece?

I’ll be traveling to Greece this summer with someone who has Celiac disease, and I want to make sure they have a great experience without worrying about gluten exposure. I know Greek food has a lot of naturally gluten-free options, but I’m curious about hidden sources of gluten (e.g., cross-contamination, sauces, breaded items, etc.).

Are there any specific dishes we should stick to or avoid? How accommodating are restaurants when it comes to dietary restrictions? Do we need to bring a Greek translation card for Celiac, or is English widely understood? Also, if anyone has recommendations for gluten-free-friendly restaurants, especially in Athens, Santorini, or Crete, that would be amazing!

Would love to hear from anyone who has traveled Greece with Celiac or has tips for making this trip stress-free. Thanks in advance!
Sign up for a free account and share your thoughts, photos, questions about Greek food, travel and culture!

WorldwideGreeks.com is a free online forum community where people can discuss Greek food, travel, traditions, history and mythology.
Join Worldwide Greeks here!

JOIN COMMUNITY FOR FREE

LOGIN TO YOUR ACCOUNT
Back
Top