Friday, December 14, 2012

Greek Food For Celebrations

Kabobs and pita are two very popular Greek party foods


Greek foods are rich and full of flavorful spices and cheeses that will make anyone's stomach growl. Traditional Greek celebration foods vary based on the type of event or holiday. For instance, different foods are served at weddings, funerals, Christmas, and Thanksgiving. However, there are consistent foods that are served at most events. These foods are delicious and simple to make and will leave your guests wanting more. Add this to my Recipe Box.


Stuffed Grape Leaves








Grape leaves are the leaves taken from the grape vine


Stuffed grape leaves, also known as Dolmathakia, are Greek finger foods that are filled with meat, rice and spices and served as both an appetizer and a main course. Grape leaves are literally the leaves that grow on a grapevine and are a staple in Greek cuisine. Grape leaves are most commonly purchased in cans, because they are not commercially sold fresh. Rinse the leaves and then simmer them in boiling water to make them pliable. Top the leaves with herbs such as mint, dill, and parsley, rice, lemon juice, green onions, and pork or beef. Roll the leaf around the filling and then boil the rolled leaf in water until is cooked through. Allow the leaves to cool and serve them with Greek yogurt or tzatziki for dipping.


Kabobs


Kabobs are a delicious Greek meal that will fit in at any celebration. Kabobs are primarily chunks of meat and vegetables grilled on a skewer. Cut chicken into larger chunks or cubes. Slice tomatoes, onions, mushrooms, peppers or any other type of vegetable into chunks. Marinate the chicken and vegetables in spices and sauce, such as Greek yogurt, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes and basil. Thread the chunks of chicken and vegetables onto the skewers and grill them. The meat and vegetables will have the smoky taste of the grill combined with the richness of the Greek spices and cheese and will taste delicious.


Baklava


No Greek celebration is complete without dessert. Baklava is a light, sweet pastry made out of layers of phyllo dough and and drizzled with syrup. Layers of phyllo papers are placed in the pan, and then walnuts mixed with cinnamon and sugar make up the center of the pastry. To make the syrup, boil sugar, water, vanilla, and honey, and drizzle it over the pastry. However, be sure to make a note that your baklava contains walnuts, so that guests with nut allergies can avoid it.

Tags: Grape leaves, chicken vegetables, foods that, Greek celebration, Greek yogurt, meat vegetables