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kosta_karapinotis

Active member
We are grilling for Easter this year. It's a smaller crowd, and not everyone likes lamb. So, we are trying to keep it easy. For the lamb representation, we were thinking of grilling lamb chops. I was thinking of marinating them in ladolemono (oil and lemon dressing with garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper).

I want them to be super flavorful, juicy, and a real hit with the family. I’ve got good quality chops, but I’m not sure about the best marinade or whether to go charcoal or gas for that authentic Greek taste.

Do you marinate overnight with lemon, garlic, oregano, and olive oil—or just a few hours? And what about finishing them with extra lemon or salt after grilling? I’ve also heard some people brush with oregano-infused oil while they’re cooking. Let me know what you think - thank you!
 
Your plan sounds perfect for a smaller Easter gathering! Ladolemono is a classic choice and works beautifully with lamb chops. I recommend marinating for at least a few hours, but not overnight—too much lemon can start to “cook” the meat and toughen it. Four to six hours is the sweet spot for flavor and tenderness.

Charcoal definitely gives you that authentic Greek flavor with a nice smoky edge, especially if you throw in some oregano sprigs on the coals for aroma. During grilling, a light basting with oregano-infused oil is a great touch—it keeps the chops moist and adds layers of flavor.

After grilling, hit them with a final squeeze of lemon, a pinch of sea salt, and maybe a sprinkle of fresh oregano. Serve with crusty bread and some tzatziki or roasted potatoes—your guests will be raving. Sounds like a delicious feast!
 

Different flavorings for Koulourakia?

I love making koulourakia, especially around Easter, and my go-to flavoring has always been orange zest and juice — it gives them such a light, fresh taste. But this year, I’m thinking of switching it up a bit and trying different flavor profiles.

Has anyone experimented with other traditional (or even non-traditional) flavorings in their koulourakia? I’ve heard of metaxa, masticha, or ouzo being used — has anyone tried those? What about lemon zest, rose water, or even spices like cardamom or cinnamon?

I’m also wondering if anyone has tried a chocolate or almond twist, or something more modern while still keeping the spirit of the cookie alive.

Lamb Dish Kleftiko - Origins of the Dish?

I recently tried a Greek lamb dish called Kleftiko and it was absolutely delicious—fall-off-the-bone tender with a beautiful lemony-garlicky flavor. But what really caught my attention was the name. “Kleftiko” sounds so unique and mysterious... there has to be a story behind it, right?

From what little I’ve gathered, it seems to be connected to bandits or rebels? That just made me more curious. I love when food comes with a story or ties into the history of a place.

Does anyone here know the real origin of Lamb Kleftiko? Was it actually cooked by outlaws in the mountains? Or is that just a legend that grew over time?

Would love to hear from anyone who knows more about the dish—especially if you grew up eating it or have a family story tied to it. Thanks in advance for any insights!

How healthy is Greek food to you?

I’m Greek and I eat a lot of traditional Greek food, both at home and when I travel. I’ve always seen Greek cuisine as healthy—lots of vegetables, olive oil, legumes, fish, and simple ingredients. But I was thinking about how some of our dishes, like moussaka, pastitsio, or baklava, are definitely on the heavier side. They're delicious, but pretty rich!

Still, my perception is that in Greece, people don’t eat those types of dishes every day. They’re more for Sundays, holidays, or name days—special occasions. The everyday meals are often lighter, like lentils, horta, grilled fish, or fasolakia.

So I wanted to ask—how healthy is Greek food to you personally? Do you think it lives up to its “Mediterranean Diet” reputation? Or do you find yourself eating more of the heavier, indulgent dishes on a regular basis? Curious to hear everyone’s take!

Making Traditional Lagana?

I’m thinking about trying my hand at baking traditional Lagana bread for the first time. I’ve had it fresh from a bakery in Greece before—light, sesame-crusted, and perfect with olives and taramosalata—but never made it myself.

I’ve found a few recipes online, but they vary a lot. Some use olive oil, some don’t. Some say you need to proof it twice, others once. What’s the most authentic method in your experience?

Also wondering if you have tips for getting that classic airy texture and golden crust. Do you bake it on a stone or a regular tray? And how much sesame is too much sesame?

Interesting Greek Recipe - Kritharoto

I bumped into a Greek recipe I had never heard of before - krtharoto. Has anyone made it? I am intrigued by it. For those of you who make it, does this recipe look like it makes sense?

Ingredients:

Main:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1½ cups kritharaki (orzo pasta)
  • ½ cup dry white wine (optional but traditional)
  • 4 cups warm vegetable or chicken broth (add more as needed)
Finish:
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or fresh thyme
  • Salt & freshly ground pepper, to taste
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons butter (or more olive oil for vegan)
  • ½ cup grated kefalotyri, graviera, or Parmesan cheese
  • Chopped fresh parsley or dill, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the Base:
    In a deep skillet or wide saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add Orzo & Wine:
    Add the orzo and stir for 2 minutes to lightly toast it. Pour in the wine and let it simmer until mostly absorbed.
  3. Simmer with Broth:
    Begin adding the warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently as the orzo absorbs the liquid. Just like risotto, keep adding broth gradually, allowing it to absorb before adding more. This process takes about 15–18 minutes.
  4. Finish Creamy:
    Once the orzo is tender and creamy, remove from heat. Stir in the butter, cheese, lemon zest, oregano or thyme. Adjust salt and pepper.
  5. Serve:
    Spoon into shallow bowls, sprinkle with fresh herbs and more cheese if desired. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top for that final Greek touch.
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