There are many beautiful places to explore in the world, but one that seems to have it all, is Greece. This southern European country is full of rich culture, fascinating history, breathtaking beaches, more islands than you can count, and who could forget, some of the most mouth-wateringly good food in the world. When you decide to take your next visit to Greece, here are the top six foods that you must try!
One: The first food on our list is a Greek classic: Tzatziki (pronounced “tsah-see-key”). This dish can be eaten plain but is a common go-to for a sauce on many different kinds of food. Each person who makes tzatziki may have their own little spin to make it unique, but the usual ingredients are yogurt, garlic, cucumber, and fresh dill. This versatile sauce may seem simple, but it definitely should not be overlooked. Tzatziki has earned its place on the top foods that you should try when you next adventure overseas to Greece!
Two: Next up on the list is a food that is no stranger to America and goes hand-in-hand with tzatziki. Number two on the list is a gyro (pronounced “yee-roh”) and is a dish that can be found all over the world. Traditionally, gyros are made with pork that is cooked on an upright rotisserie grill. The meat is carefully shaved off and placed on a pita bread along with tomatoes, onions, and a healthy serving of tzatziki. All of the ingredients are then wrapped together and served. While you may have tried these delicious wraps somewhere else in the world, you must try this authentic Greek dish when visiting the country it comes from.
Three: Dolmadakia (pronounced “Dole-mud-ah-kee-uh”) is number three on the list of foods that you must try when you visit Greece! Traditionally, this food is made by taking grape leaves; completing a very particular process to make them edible; stuffing them with a mixture of rice, onions, and herbs; and then rolling it all together. This preparation process is how dolmadakia got its name. Dolma- means filled or stuffed and -aki means little. While this little stuffed wrap is traditionally a vegetarian dish, there are many variations that can be found around Greece that include meat and other stuffing ingredients. Try to see how many different kinds of dolmadakia you can find as you explore Greece!
Four: The next Greek food that is an essential item to add to your food “to try” list is souvlaki (pronounced “soov-law-kee”). This is an item that you have probably heard of before, but if not, souvlaki is meat on a stick or skewer (which is what it’s name means in Greek). The meat that is found on these Greek skewers is typically chicken, beef, pork, or lamb. There are three main options for ordering and eating souvlaki: First, eating the meat straight off the stick; second, wrapping the meat in pita with tzatziki sauce; or third eating it off of a plate. Souvlaki is a common type of street food that can be found all over Greece and is definitely worth stopping and buying, no matter how you choose to eat it!
Five: Moussaka? Don’t mind if I do! Number five on the list of foods you must try on your next visit to Greece is one that you definitely do not want to miss. Moussaka (pronounced “moo-saw-kuh”) is a layered dish comprised of eggplants, potatoes, and meat sauce. In a lasagna style way of layering, thinly sliced eggplants, potatoes, and a simmered lamb/beef sauce are layered alternately in a pan. Once the layering is done, the moussaka is topped with a delicious bechamel sauce, as well as grated cheese, and tossed in the oven to let all of the delicious flavors melt together. After the moussaka has been taken out, and cooled down, it is often paired with a Greek salad and served to enjoy. This dish makes the list for obvious reasons and is a quintessential part of Greek cuisine that you must try.
Six: The final food that you must try when visiting Greece is baklava (pronounced “baw-kluh-vaw”). This delicious Greek pastry is a treat sweet enough to make any time feel like dessert time. Baklava is made by strategically layering multiple layers of phyllo dough and a combination of olive oil, sugar, cinnamon, and a variety of nuts, typically almonds, walnuts, and/or pistachios. Once the layering is done, a syrup is made by combining olive oil and sugar, which is then poured over the top and left to absorb into the pastry. This dish can be found all over Greece and is usually a delicacy that Greek families reserve for special occasions. Make your next trek to Greece a special occasion by trying one (or ten) pieces of baklava!
As you can see, there are so many foods that are a “must try” on your next adventure to Greece. Let Acanela help you fully immerse yourself into the Greek culture by giving you the opportunity to try all of these delicious foods for yourself!
Post written by Jaide Matson