The History of Loukoumades

Loukoumades are a popular Greek dessert made of deep-fried dough balls. They are typically round and puffy, with a crisp golden-brown exterior and a soft, airy interior. After frying, they are often drizzled with honey or syrup and sometimes sprinkled with cinnamon and chopped nuts. Loukoumades are usually a sweet treat during festivals, holidays, or special occasions in Greece and other parts of the Mediterranean.

The Origin

Lukoumades are believed to have been a part of ancient Greek cuisine. They were often prepared for special occasions and religious festivals—the earliest references to a similar dessert date back to the Ancient Greek Olympic Games. Throughout history, variations of loukoumades can be found in various cultures across the Mediterranean and Middle East, each with unique names and flavors. In some cultures, they are known as “zalābiya” or “awamat.”

Varieties of Loukoumades 

There are many variations of loukoumades found in different cultures. Each version offers a unique take on the delightful combination of fried dough and sweet flavors. Some of these variations are:

• Greek loukoumades: The classic version, made from deep-fried dough balls and traditionally soaked in honey or syrup. They are often sprinkled with cinnamon and chopped nuts.
• Middle Eastern Zalābiya: Like loukoumades, fried dough balls are popular in Middle Eastern countries. They are typically soaked in rose or orange blossom water syrup and sometimes dusted with powdered sugar.
• Turkish lokma: Known as “lokma” in Turkey, these are small doughnut-like treats fried until golden brown and soaked in syrup. They are sometimes flavored with lemon or orange zest.
• Cypriot loukoumades: In Cyprus, loukoumades are often served with honey and cinnamon, similar to the Greek version. However, they may mix grated halloumi cheese into the dough for a unique twist.
• Armenian toshka: Toshka are fried dough pastries popular in Armenian cuisine. They can be served with honey or sugar syrup and are often enjoyed during holidays and special occasions.

How to Prepare Loukoumades 

To prepare loukoumades, combine all-purpose flour, dry yeast, a pinch of salt, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Afterward, add lukewarm water while stirring, then cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let the batter rise for about an hour. Once it has doubled, heat oil in a deep pot for frying until the loukoumades turn golden brown. Add chopped nuts, powdered sugar, or warm syrup to spice the sweetness.

Visit Greco for a Delicious Loukoumades 

With a rich history rooted in traditional techniques, Greco takes the art of making loukoumades to new heights. Each morsel is meticulously prepared, achieving the perfect balance of crispiness on the outside and softness within. Whether indulging in the classic honey-drenched variation or exploring creative twists, every bite is worth exploring. 

What is the Origin of Gyros

The origin of gyros can be traced back to Greece, where it is considered a popular and traditional dish. Gyros consist of seasoned meat, usually beef, lamb, pork, or a combination of these meats, stacked in a cone-like shape on a vertical rotisserie. The meat is then simmered as it rotates, allowing it to be cooked evenly on all sides. This cooking method resembles the Middle Eastern shawarma and the Mexican dish al pastor. 

 

How Did Gyros Originate?

The modern form of gyros, as we know it today, was developed in Greece in the 1920s. The method of cooking meat on a vertical rotisserie has roots in the region’s culinary history. However, the gyro sandwich, as we commonly know it, emerged as a variation of the Turkish döner kebab. The döner kebab is also cooked on a vertical rotisserie and is believed to have influenced the creation of the gyro sandwich.

 

Cultural Significance

Gyros are commonly enjoyed in Greece during social gatherings, festivals, and celebrations. They bring people together and are often a central feature of communal meals. Gyros are an essential part of Greece’s street food culture. They are readily available from food carts, stalls, and small shops nationwide. The accessibility of gyros makes them a beloved and convenient option for locals and tourists alike.

For Greece and other countries where gyros are famous, they play a role in attracting tourists interested in experiencing local cuisine. This contributes to the local economy of these places by promoting tourism and supporting businesses that serve gyros.

 

Gyros Are Made Up of What Components?

The ingredients used for cooking gyros are listed below.

• Seasoned meat such as slices of beef, lamb, pork, or a combination of these meats. Chicken is also used as a variation.
• The meat is marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper, among other spices. The specific seasoning blend may vary based on personal preferences and regional variations.
• Gyros are typically served in pita bread, a round, pocket-like bread.
• Typical toppings include sliced tomatoes, onions, and sometimes lettuce or shredded cabbage. Tzatziki sauce, a yogurt-based sauce with cucumber, garlic, and dill, is also a traditional and essential condiment for gyros.
• Some variations of gyros may include additional toppings or sauces, such as hummus, tahini, or hot sauce, depending on regional preferences.

 

Visit Greco in Boston, MA, and Beyond

As gyros have spread to different countries and cultures, they facilitate cultural exchange and understanding. This allows people from diverse backgrounds to experience and appreciate Greek cuisine, including places like Boston. Greco in Boston, MA, and beyond serve delicious gyros without losing touch with the flavor, color, and nutritional benefits. Visit us today.

Greek Desserts to Try This Summer

Greek desserts are a delightful way to indulge in the flavors of the Mediterranean during the summer. Even though these desserts can be enjoyed all year round, you can explore several variations during Greek festivals in summer.

Loukoumades

Loukoumades are Greek honey and cinnamon doughnuts. These bite-sized, deep-fried dough balls are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, drenched in honey syrup, and sprinkled with ground cinnamon. They are often served hot and are incredibly addictive. You can find Loukoumades in restaurants or as a staple at festivals. However, they barely make it to home dishes due to the technicality involved in the cooking process.

Baklava

Baklava is a sweet pastry made of layers of thin phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts (usually walnuts, pistachios, or almonds). It is also sweetened with a syrup made of honey, sugar, and citrus flavors. It’s rich, nutty, and wonderfully sweet! Unlike Baklava, Loukoumades is usually made at home and can be found as a street food in Greece.

Galaktoboureko

Galaktoboureko is a custard-filled pastry with layers of phyllo dough and creamy semolina custard. Once baked, it’s soaked in a lemon-scented syrup, adding a tangy sweetness to balance the richness of the custard. You can get the dough in specialty shops close to you.

Rizogalo

Rizogalo is a creamy Greek rice pudding flavored with vanilla and cinnamon. It’s a comforting and refreshing dessert, perfect for chilling on a hot summer day. You can also top the pudding with Greek honey and walnuts. This dessert is relatively easy to prepare.

Revani

Revani is a semolina cake soaked in sweet syrup. It’s usually flavored with lemon or orange and often topped with almonds or coconut flakes. The texture is moist and slightly grainy, making it unique among Greek desserts.

Sokolatopita

Sokolatopita is also known as Greek chocolate cake, a dense and moist chocolate dessert made with cocoa and often flavored with orange zest. This is a delicious treat for chocolate lovers!

 

4 Fun Facts About Greek Cuisine

We put together a list of facts about Greek cuisine. Keep reading below to learn why Greek food is unique and popular worldwide! Visit Greco in Boston, MA, to try our authentic, fresh Greek cuisine.

 

Champions of Olive Oil

Olive oil consistently receives praise for being a star of the Mediterranean diet. Many scientists have proven that olive oil helps to prevent diseases like Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and cancer if consumed regularly. Olive oil plays a key role in Mediterranean food – particularly Greek food. Greeks take great pride in that their ancestors were, in all likelihood, the first people to plant olive trees in the Mediterranean region, including France, Italy, and Spain. Greek cooking utilizes olive oil in almost everything, adding rich flavor to every meal

 

The Story of Potatoes in Greece

The Greek story of potatoes states that Greece’s first governor, Ioannis Kapodistrias, wanted to introduce potatoes into the beautiful country. Legend has it that he ordered potatoes that were to be given for free, but the Greek communities showed no interest in this exotic crop. He thought of a trick. He ordered potatoes to be unloaded in public display and guarded by security. They instructed the guards to look the other way if locals tried stealing the potatoes. The plan was crowned with success. The Greeks saw the potatoes as valuable and soon began stealing them all – quickly, they fell in love with the new exotic crop.

 

Mediterranean lifestyle

It isn’t just about the Greek cuisine for many communities in Greece. This region shares other characteristics with southern European countries like Italy and Spain, including the importance of the dinner table and hospitality. Greeks eat their main meal of the day at lunchtime, usually around 2 pm, and don’t usually eat dinner until around 9-10 pm, later than the Italians but slightly earlier than the Spanish. They also greatly value the importance of philoxenia – the concept of hospitality for strangers. 

 

Little Meat, Lots of Vegetables

Greece’s rocky terrain and climate made it much easier for sheep and goats rather than cattle, so the most traditional meat and dairy products originated from those animals. For centuries, pork, poultry, rabbit, and seafood were considered luxuries and typically only used for a special occasion – or in the old times, for the high class. Vegetables, therefore, were the primary menu options across Greece. Fresh vegetarian dishes are priceless, with plenty of vegetables growing in the region. For most words nowadays, meat is a side dish or an extra add-on.

At Greco Truly Greek in Boston, MA, we have plenty of vegetarian and meat options for you to try. Our authentic and fresh Greek cuisine can’t be beaten – not to mention you can grab and go!

Fast Casual Greek Food To Try This Summer

Greece has a long history of being praised for its delicious flavors and Mediterranean delicacies, as well as for its vibrant culture and rich history. This article will explore the world of fast-casual Greek food to try this summer. Here are ten fast-casual Greek food to try this summer;

 

Fresh fish 

Fresh fish and calamari from the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas are delicious that are prepared quickly by grilling them whole and drizzling ladolemono (a lemon and oil sauce) over them. These small, flavorful fish (such as marida (whitebait) and barbouni (red mullet)) taste best when lightly fried.

 

Feta

Fresh cheese is a treat in Greece, especially the creamy, excellent feta preserved in large barrels of brine behind market counters. You can try graviera, a firm, golden-white cheese that’s delicious alone or fried as saganaki. The Tyropita cheese pie can be found in bakeries, while salads like Cretan dakos can be ordered in restaurants.

 

Melitzanosalata 

It is an eggplant dip that goes well with foods that contain meat. Similar to baba ganoush, but not quite, this classic dish is made with just a few basic ingredients: eggplant, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. It is a nice addition to a meze plate with pita bread and can be eaten with bread or pita.

 

Keftedes 

These Greek meatballs can be served as the main dish, as an appetizer for a party, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. They are seasoned with herbs and garlic and served with tzatziki; you can add fresh mint as a garnish for a mouthwatering taste. 

 

Tzatziki

It is a well-known sauce of rich olive oil, crisp cucumber, creamy yogurt, and various fragrant herbs. It is typically served with classic bread or traditional pita bread. 

 

Gyros Pita

Gyros Pita is a thick flatbread pita topped with tzatziki, luscious tomatoes, crisp onions, and fries and liberally stuffed with lamb, chicken, or pork. 

 

Baklava 

Baklava needs no introduction as it is a delicious combination of delicate fillo bread layered with honey and dried fruit. 

 

Visit Greco Truly Greek Today

Why not join us at Greco Truly Greek and explore several fast, casual Greek cuisine as summer unfolds? Allow our meals’ mellow flavors to entice your taste buds as you share them with your friends and families. Reach out to us today to enjoy the beauty of Greek cuisine.

Greek Cuisine You Should Try This Summer

Some Greek cuisine is made uniquely for the summer and should be enjoyed during summer vacations or trips to Greece. Greek cuisine has a strong taste and is praised for its vibrant flavor and deep aroma. Here are some Greek dishes you should try this summer.

Yemista

Yemista or Gemista is a dish deeply linked to summer in Greece. Yemista is stuffed with tomatoes with vegetables such as peppers, zucchinis, and eggplants, which are then baked. The standard version includes pine nuts and raisins, while the modern-day version includes rice and minced meat. The variations are endless, but the underlying judgment is that the dish is one of the most delicious cuisines you can enjoy on a Greek summer morning.

Greek salad

The Greek salad is ideal for summer because it is filling, with sufficient nutrients, light and juicy, but most importantly, calm. There are many ways of preparing a Greek salad, so you should take the time to experiment and find out what works for you. It is one of the most versatile summer dishes and can be eaten for lunch, dinner parties, BBQ, and more.

Souvlaki

Souvlaki is another rich dish with a wide variety and is essentially meat on skewers. The choice of beef could vary based on preference, but the accompanying dip makes Souvlaki stand out. The ancient and authentic version included pie, dill, cheese, and broth.

Tzatziki

Tzatziki is a dip, but it is one of the most essential dips in Greek cuisine. It has a deep heritage and many adaptations but has surprisingly maintained its authenticity with very few changes. It is made with yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, dill or mint, and peppers (optional). The dip is a summer favorite for many though taking less spicy Tzatziki would defeat the purpose of trying to stay cool in summer.

Yiourvelakia 

Yiourvelakia is a meatball soup made with rice. The dish has an intense flavor and creamy texture and pursues refined taste to its limit. Although it is relatively simple to prepare while holding a recipe, a single mistake with heat control could ruin the real delicacy. It is loved by many and is a must-try in summer. The egg and lemon sauce is the true highlight of this dish and the key to its bold flavor profile.

Visit Greco 

There are many Greek dishes you should try over the summer. One of the most beneficial and often overlooked things about Greek cuisine is that it pursues balance, with plenty of vegetable dishes to balance out the meat dishes. Therefore, you can take a moment to indulge yourself without worrying about eating unhealthy food.

Try These Greek Salads to Cool Off This Summer

Greek salads are ideal for cooling off during the sweltering summer months. Fresh veggies, tangy feta cheese, tasty olives, and a light olive oil and lemon juice dress make up the classic Greek salad. It’s simple to locate a Greek salad that meets your tastes because there are many varieties. We’ll try some of the top Greek salad dishes in this blog post this summer.

Benefits of Eating Greek Salads

Greek salads are not only delectable but also quite nutritious. Greek salad ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers are bursting with nutrients and antioxidants that support health. Healthy fats found in olives, a mainstay in Greek salads, are advantageous for heart health. Another essential ingredient in Greek salads, feta cheese, is a good source of calcium and protein.

Top 5 Greek Salad Recipes

Classic Greek Salad: This traditional Greek salad recipe has delicious feta cheese, crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and oregano-lemon vinaigrette.

Watermelon and Feta Salad: This variation of the traditional Greek salad includes slices of luscious watermelon, fresh mint, and a honey-lime sauce.

Grilled Chicken Greek Salad: For a heartier supper, try this recipe for grilled chicken Greek salad, which includes marinated chicken breasts, roasted red peppers, and Kalamata olives.

Greek Pasta Salad: This pasta salad recipe puts a fun spin on the traditional Greek salad by combining rotini pasta, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese with a zesty Greek vinaigrette.

Chickpea Greek Salad: This vegetarian-friendly Greek salad dish replaces the conventional lettuce with protein-rich chickpeas and includes diced red onions, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and the usual ingredients.

 

Visit Greco Truly Greek

If you are looking for a salad option to cool off this summer, visit Greco at one of our locations across Boston, MA. We have a variety of different fast-casual Greek dishes for you to indulge in while escaping the soon-to-come summer heat.

The Importance of Greek Hospitality

Different parts of the world have their definition of hospitality; the Greek culture, in particular, takes hospitality very seriously. They treat tourists and visitors like special guests and are always ready to welcome them with open hands. Greece being part of Europe, has great diversity, so you’re sure to avoid feeling like a stranger in their environment. There are a lot of tourist attractions available for visitors, and honestly, the fun knows no bounds.

 

Why Greeks Take Hospitality Seriously

In Greece, an ancient belief is that a visitor can be one of their gods in disguise. Everyone who identifies as Greek or represents their beliefs welcomes guests, regardless of their title and position in society, with food, drinks, and a place to lay their heads before engaging in any conversation. In the past, the ancient Greek god Zeus punished people who were found not to be hospitable.

 

It cannot be overstated that the Greek people are very kind, and in ancient times it was common for a villager to go to the home of a foreigner or visitor with a bag of fresh tomatoes. This form of hospitality is currently displayed in states, such as helping a stranger in need or buying food for a homeless person. The ancient Greeks believed that their acts of kindness and hospitality would lead to favor in the sight of Zeus and other gods. It was also discovered that the most prosperous people in the Greek culture at that time were also very hospitable and generous with their wealth; this further increased the passion for hospitality in all citizens.

 

The Laws of Xenia

The word Xenia embodies the idea of being hospitable. It forms part of the compound word “Philo-Xenia” which translates to “Friend of the stranger”. Stories have been told of the god Zeus, who was known to dress up in layman’s clothing and appear at the doors of villagers to know who would accept him and those who would turn him away. Woe to those who turn him away as unknown to them. 

 

They have just incurred Zeus’s wrath; we can imagine what that would look like. Asides from Zeus, other gods, such as the goddess of wisdom, Athena Xenia, and the set of twins, Dioscuri Castor and Pollux, were known to watch over all strangers. In ancient Greece, offering hospitality to a stranger is seen as a sign of virtue and honor. These acts have, as such, been enshrined in their DNA and passed down to their offspring; little wonder why the residents are so kind.

5 Popular Greek Desserts to Try

Greece is a country known for its diversity, further illustrated by the various sweet desserts in the country. One can try multiple desserts when visiting the country for the first time. Many desserts are made with exciting ingredients and different preparation methods. In this article, we will look at 5 of the most common Greek desserts and review them and the methods used in their preparation.

 

Baklava

This Greek treat is made up of layers consisting of Flaky Phyllo pastry filled up with crushed nuts that the customers like. The dessert is topped off with honey. Baklava is quite a unique dessert; unlike others, it can be prepared about two days before and retains its untouched nature. This is especially possible if all the ingredients used are in a new state during preparation. After making your baklava, you can store it in a freezer for up to four months. Keeping the dessert in batches is advisable, so you don’t have to thaw out a whole pan when you want a piece.

 

Loukoumades

These are tiny bite-sized honey balls which are the Greek version of donuts. When preparing this dessert, it is fried until a golden brown is obtained. This is when the dessert is at its crispiest and purest form. The traditional paper of loukoumades is dipped in honey syrup and served alongside cinnamon and chopped nuts to the customer’s liking. Chocolate lovers can also drizzle this delicacy in a chocolate sauce. The perfect loukoumades are gotten if you leave your dough to rise for a while, so patience is essential in preparing this snack.

 

Bougatsa

This is a Greek custard pie made with creamy custard, which is then placed into golden brown phyllo. Melted butter is rubbed over the phyllo, and icing sugar or cinnamon is used as toppings. Good quality fresh butter is essential in ensuring a perfect bougatsa. Butter made from cow’s milk is historically the best dessert option. An important tip to note when making this dessert is to make the phyllo crispier and flakier; the butter should be sprinkled rather than brushed on.

 

Melomakarona

These are known as Greek honey cookies. These cookies are incredibly moist and can be prepared in just a few minutes. The Ingredients used in making these cookies are common everyday items, so you can easily incorporate them into the meals you make at home. The dessert can be topped using cinnamon or icing sugar. It is a very common Christmas delicacy here in Greece, and it is common to go out in the festive season to give them out to people experiencing homelessness and others in need.

 

Visit Greco Today

The list of savory Greek desserts goes on. There is never a dull moment in any of our restaurants. We at Greco are committed to providing your taste buds with that extra wonder in every bite. Visit our website today to find out which desserts are available.

Healthy Greek Meals You Should Try

Are you a big fan of Greek cuisine and want to get healthier? Fortunately, there are many healthy Greek meals for you to try! If you wish to eat more fruits and vegetables or lose a few pounds, these healthy Greek meals might help you.

 

Traditional Greek Salad

This traditional Greek salad may be the best option for a quick and healthy meal. It is low in calories while also being filling and loaded with vegetables. As a bonus, it’s delicious! This salad is super easy to make because it has so few ingredients. You can make it yourself with cucumbers, tomatoes, kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Add a dressing of olive oil, herbs, and spices, and you’ll have a new favorite lunch item!

 

Greek Chicken Bowls

This Greek chicken bowl recipe can make a filling, healthy, and tasty meal in less than an hour. The bowl includes marinaded chicken strips, rice, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and red onions mixed with herbs, spices, and oil. It is a flavorful and exciting dish your family will beg you to make weekly! While the prep time takes a little longer than other healthy Greek recipes, this one is unforgettable. Even better, it is a fantastic meal to make ahead of meal prep. Consider this recipe for your lunches this week!

 

Greek Dolmades

Dolmades is a vegetarian dish with a rice mixture stuffed inside grapevine leaves. This meal can be an excellent option for those seeking a lighter dish for dinner. The rice is seasoned with lemon juice, onions, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper before being added to the leaves and rolled. 

 

Avgolemono Chicken Soup

Traditionally, avgolemono is a sauce made of chicken broth, the juice of a lemon, and egg yolks. Add broth, chicken, and rice to make it into a soup. This avgolemono chicken soup recipe brings a delicious and healthy dinner option in 30 minutes or less.

 

Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki

If you’ve never had souvlaki, you’re missing out! If you’ve never had tzatziki, you’re also missing out! These two Greek favorites are flavorful and may become your favorite protein-packed dish. The chicken souvlaki with tzatziki requires a garlic-heavy marinade for the best flavor. It is typically served on a skewer or in a pita with various toppings. Whether you opt for the skewer or the pita version, you won’t be disappointed with this meal. 

 

Try Greek Meals!

Are you a lover of Greek food but need more energy to cook the meals yourself? That’s okay! Greco is ready to serve you some of the most incredible healthy Greek meals you’ll ever have. Stop by Greco in Boston, MA, for a delicious bite today.