Following months of tasting and testing, we finished reviewing over 100 products from this year’s sold-out Summer Fancy Food Show and have narrowed down our choices to the best of the best to share with you, including Sofi Award winners.
 
The following 30 curated finds will help you create a gorgeous charcuterie and/or dessert board and beverage station for you and your guests to enjoy throughout this holiday season. Arrange little bowls of olives, gherkins, fruit, and nuts to enhance your board, visually and tastefully.
 
For gift ideas, see last week’s post Mediterranean Food Gifts (including pantry staples). As an added bonus, you’ll find items in both posts that can easily cross over between categories covering everything trending for your holiday menus, snacking, and sipping by the fire (or TV). Get ready to be WOWED by some of the most exceptional foods and drinks we’ve sampled!

Busti Formaggi di Famiglia – Cheese from Tuscany
Saying these chesses are magnificent does not do them justice. We can’t pick just one, so we’re including two in this lineup. The Argitoni Pecorino Romano is creamy, rich, and not too salty (as Pecorino Romano can be). The Busti Pecorino di Fauglia is nutty, silky, and melts in your mouth as it continues to burst with Tuscan flavor. The company also produces lactose-free cheeses. We suggest you purchase these in wheels and serve with a cheese knife, as pictured here.
Contact Schuman Cheese for purchase information.

Sincerely, Brigitte
Every cheese from this brand has a distinct personality that makes you want to say: “I’ll have one of each!” Three of our favorites are perfect for this post. Prairie Jack with Lemon & Sage cheese captures the flavors so common in Greek cuisine. Prairie Jack with Sundried Tomato & Olive cheese tastes like pizza, seriously (and also comes shredded for homemade pizza)! And the ideal cheese centerpiece is the layered Brigitte’s Spirit Brie & Fig Paste (the Brie & Guava Paste is pretty awesome, too).
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Cypress Grove
This producer creates award-winning cheeses that range from fresh and tangy to soft-ripened classics, to buttery aged chesses. Their Meyer Lemon and Honey Goat Cheese combines floral Meyer lemon that’s lightly sweetened with delicate alfalfa honey (two Greek favorites) which is then mixed into fresh goat cheese — tangy with a balanced sweetness and the brightness of coastal sunshine.

Ivy’s Reserve Vintage Cheddar
Ivy’s Reserve Vintage Cheddar is the world’s first carbon neutral cheddar, named after the family’s grandmother Ivy Clothier, who perfected the recipe in the 1930s. Made with 100% green energy using electricity and gas sourced from solar power and biogas generated from the farm and dairy waste. The award-winning cheese is crafted in Somerset, England at Wyke Farms and is aged up to 18 months to develop a slightly sweet, nutty, creamy complex flavor with a rounded tangy finish.

Royal Hollandia Mediterranean Herb
Imported from Holland, this robust variety merges savory notes of black olives, tomatoes, basil, and garlic. Pair with mixed olives, almonds, roasted red peppers, Pinot Grigio, and IPAs.

​Also exceptional is their Mild Gouda with a mild taste and creamy texture, adding a nice balance to a board filled with strong flavors. Pair with green grapes, almonds, salami, rosé, or amber ale.

Aussie Select – Australian lamb deli meats
Nothing says Greek like lamb! DELIcious all-natural, fully-cooked, pasture-raised Australian lamb in varieties Tikka Masala Lamb Ham, Agave Rosemary Lamb Ham, and Lamb Pastrami  elevate the cold-cut aisle to a gourmet level. These flavorful, minimally-processed meats are naturally lean and tender, and a good source of protein, as well as 13 essential nutrients, including iron, Omega-3, and B vitamins.

Prosciutto di Parma
Tender, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth (no gristle), hands down the best prosciutto you will ever wrap your mouth around. Look for the Parma Crown on the packaging—the five-pointed crown, or “ducal crown,” was originally created to symbolize the Duke of Parma and Piacenza (a town northwest of Parma) but is still used as the coat of arms for the town of Parma today. When you buy Prosciutto di Parma, you don’t have to worry about quality.

Rovagnati – Italy’s #1 charcuterie
Rovagnati charcuterie meats are produced in Italy and brought to the U.S. Italian tradition is carried through its premium range with no-nitrites-ever salamis and cold cuts. The brand features a vast assortment to complement any table.

Monte Pollino North Beach Pepperoni (meat stick)
This traditionally-prepared salami represents the best flavors of the famous North Beach neighborhood in San Francisco.

The meat stick is dry-cured, dense, nitrate and hormone-free, and packed with 7 grams of protein per serving.

Alexian Pâté & Specialty Meats
Duck Liver and Pork Mousse with Cognac will make a luxurious meat addition to your board. The winner of the prestigious Good Food Award in San Francisco, this pâté is incredibly smooth and spreadable. This is just one of the many exceptional foods from this brand.

Hancock Lobster Company Mini Lobster Grilled Cheese – 2023 SOFI Gold Award
Gourmet lobster cooked and shipped to your door. Four-star entertaining has never been this easy. Hancock’s Mini Lobster Grilled Cheese appetizers make a wonderful addition to your board. Made with sweet Maine lobster surrounded by melting cheese and stuffed between slices of sourdough bread, these apps come ready to heat and serve. In addition to more appetizers, entrees, and soups & chowders, Hancock offers delectable lobster gift packages like Mac & Cheese, pot pies, and risotto.

Groix et Nature Sardines with Lobster Oil – The French Farm
Say “Oui” to sardines from Brittany, France that are prepared by hand and delicately marinated with lobster oil (made from grape seed oil in which the cooked lobster shells are infused). These sardines with lobster oil (with 19 grams of protein per 4-ounce can) can be served in a bowl on your board, as well as enjoyed alone or added to a salad or meal. Bon appétit!

Brooklyn Bred from Damascus Bakeries
This precooked Pizza Crust is naturally fermented using 00 flour (perfect for pizza dough) and hearth-baked on a hot stone for extra volume, a light and airy texture, and crispy crust. Sure you can make pizza with it, but because of its thickness, it doubles as fresh bread. Just heat, slice like focaccia, and serve on your board or on the side.
​
*Varieties: Traditional, Original, Ancient Grains

Trésors French Butter Crackers with Roquefort & Honey (Epicure Foods Corp) – 2023 New Product SOFI Award
These crackers are a tasty gourmet snack or meze accompaniment. Every little cracker is traditionally baked in France using the renowned French Roquefort PDO blue cheese and a hint of honey.

​Thirty percent real Roquefort is incorporated in the recipe.

Mama’s Hot Roasted Pepper Spread (Max’s Imports) – 2023 SOFI Gold Award
This Macedonian 100 percent all-natural spread is simply made with roasted peppers and eggplant, sunflower oil, and sea salt.
*Gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian.

Cleveland Ketchups & Mustards
Quality and flavor that takes the ordinary out of traditional condiments. Purchase them individually or in sets for gifting! These go well with charcuterie but it doesn’t stop there.
*Cleveland Ketchups top flavors: Bacon & Bourbon (made with real applewood-smoked bacon and a touch of bourbon), Garlic Dill (made with real pickles to satisfy pickle aficionados)
*Cleveland Mustards top flavors: Brown (deli style with a balanced mix of tartness and subtle heat to dress up any food), Gametime (Cleveland-style brown mustard with a bite that pairs perfectly with game-day and tailgate foods)

Lewis Road Creamery – New Zealand Premium Salted Butter – 2023 SOFI Gold Award
Similar to the rich and flavorful butter made in Greece (but available in the U.S), this grass-fed butter is pasture-raised and fed, displaying a deep yellow color that develops from the grass. Made from fresh pure cream with just two ingredients (cream and salt, no water), as nature intended. The non-GMO butter is gently churned and has a velvety taste and texture.
*Other premium varieties: Sea Salt Crystals, Unsalted, Garlic & Chives

Judy Z’s condiments
Add outstanding fresh homemade taste to your board and have everyone asking for the recipe! The originals date back three generations and honor the lady herself, Judy Z.
*Judy Z's Chipotle Mayo (low-carb, gluten-free), Chipotle Light Mayo (low-carb, low-calorie), Chipotle Vegan Mayo (low-carb, low-calorie)
*Judy Z's Garlic Tarragon Salad Dressing (rich, creamy, low cholesterol, non-GMO)
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André’s Confiserie Suisse – Savory Quiche & Sweets
While well known for their sweets, André’s also has a strong savory following for their Signature Quiche, which ships nationally. It comes in two flavors: Quiche Lorraine and Cheese Pie. Just slice and add to your board or serve on the side.

​You could also create a sweets board with their Winter Holiday Collection chocolates/desserts. Be sure to explore the many other delectable products André’s offers!

​Start with chocolate and dessert ideas from André’s Confiserie Suisse (above) and add the below for a sweets board to impress!

Hellenic Farms Fig Salami – 2019 New Product SOFI Award
Add a sliced Fig Salami from this Greek importer to your savory or sweet board and your guests will want to place their own orders. We love the orange-zest variety, as well as smoked paprika, pistachio and pepper, pistachio and cinnamon, almonds and black pepper, and more.

​The salamis are also available in sets of three and five.

Lily Maude’s Bundtlets – 2023 SOFI New Product Award
Located in Memphis, Tennessee, Lily Maude's was founded with a mission to reinvent their heritage flour confection recipes when the founder was diagnosed with autoimmune disease and food allergies. So they stripped them of gluten and nuts while keeping the butter, eggs, sugar, and texture intact. Their goal was to produce desserts worthy of a blue-ribbon or Sofi Award. Mission accomplished! These moist, light-and-airy mini bundt cakes are the perfect individual size (no cutting required) and come in a variety of seasonal flavors to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth.

​From mixing up cocktails, to something deliciously warm to sip by the fire or TV, to worthy alcohol-free options (which are also great for a dry January!), we’ve got it covered!

Runamok Maple
Runamok’s new Maple Grenadine” cocktail mixer (pomegranate, lime, maple sugar) is sweet, tart, and deliciously refreshing. This all-natural grenadine is reminiscent of the original grenadine recipe before artificial colors (Red 40, Blue 1) and high-fructose corn syrup were added to the mix. Deliciously nostalgic!
*Add to cocktails, mocktails, seltzers, spritzers, and slushies (check out their recipes)
This family-owned, Vermont-based producer also produces the best maple syrups (for pancakes, cooking/baking, and also for drinks) in a variety of flavors that taste of the holidays (like Cardamom, Cinnamon-Vanilla, and Sparkle) and every other season as well! They have gift packages and pairing collections that will make any maple-syrup aficionado sing their praises!

GuS Grown-Up Soda
Unlike most soda, GuS’s is full of flavor and not overly sweet (it’s lightly sweetened with cane sugar with nothing artificial), has real juice, natural extracts, and no caffeine. Go holiday with Pomegranate or Cranberry Lime, or choose from their many other flavors.
*Drink alone, over ice, or add to cocktails, mocktails, seltzers, and spritzers (check out their recipes)
*Gluten-free and is non-GMO.

Natural Blonde Bloody Mary Mix
Natural Blonde is 91 percent juice using only premium handpicked sun-ripened fresh yellow tomatoes (instead of red) to craft a uniquely perfect sunny Bloody Mary experience. Available in original and Spicy in a variety of sizes, as well as gift sets.
*Add to cocktails or mocktails
*Alcohol-free, all-natural, gluten-free, low sodium, no preservatives, 2-year shelf life (check out their recipes)

ChocolaTea – Global Teas (finest brewed cacao)
This creamy-rich hot chocolate is brewed like coffee and you can drink it hot or cold. A vegan-friendly dark chocolate made from fermented, dried, roasted organic cacao beans is rich in antioxidants, is naturally sugar- and dairy-free and is remarkably delicious. The ChocolaTea Collection is not just about hot chocolate but also merges this distinctive cacao with coffee and tea varieties, including Dark Chocolate, Double Dark Chocolate Dream, Dark Chocolate Magic Coffee, Dark Chocolate Fresh Mint, Dark Chocolate Mocha, Dark Chocolate Chai. Try a Sampler Pack to get the full experience. This is definitely one of our favorite things!

Savannah Bee Company – Roasted Honey Coffee
Well known for their fabulous array of honeys (like our fav, Tupelo), Savannah Bee’s organic coffee lives up to the expectations!

​Arabica coffee beans are gently roasted and coated in the brand's pure golden honey, infusing a subtle, mellow sweetness into this rich, full-bodied coffee. This flavor duet wakes you up while wrapping you in warm-cozy yumminess.

Seraphim Social Beverage Cacao Blend – 2023 SOFI New Product Award
Join the party without the buzz with this nutrient-crafted beverage that gets its intoxicating flavor from natural ingredients with no added sugar, artificial flavors, or preservatives. Plant extracts are infused for wellness in smooth-and-buttery Cacao and healthy-and-happy Cassia blends.
​
*Vegan, gluten-free

Abstinence Spirits
Crafted in South Africa, award-winning Abstinence Spirits is a collection of non-alcoholic Italian-style bittersweet Aperitifs & Spritzes. The 1:1 replacements for alcohol makes these ideal for versatile mixing for both non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks, Varieties include Blood Orange Aperitivo Spritz, Lemon Aperitivo Spritz, Cape Spice, Cape Citrus, Cape Floral, and more (check out their recipes).
*Distilled botanical spirits, sugar-free, calorie-free
*Company contributes 1% of annual sales to environmental causes

Fauxmosa
How about some bubbly alcohol-free mimosas? The blend of California grapes, real fruit juice, and botanical flavors with a touch of apple cider vinegar results in a zero-proof, crisp, refreshing champagne taste with half the calories of other ready-to-drink cans.
​
*Varieties: Grapefruit Raspberry & Holy Basil, Cranberry Hibiscus & Ginger, Pineapple Lemon & Mint, and Orange Turmeric, as well as a Variety 6-Pack

 
I hope you and those on your guest list enjoy these wonderful products we discovered at the Fancy Food Show. Share your photos in Comments below—we’d love to see your creations. If you have time to prepare, our cookbooks Kukla’s Kouzina: Meze and Spreads & Dips feature some of our favorite holiday recipes!
 
Sign up for our e-newsletter (if you haven’t already) and stay connected on social media for cooking tips and recipes, as well as for all Kukla's Kouzina updates and news.
 
Thanks for following us and we’ll see you next Monday!
 
Until then~
Kali orexi! Good appetite!
 
Kelly

​Copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style / The Naked Truth About...Greek Cooking!    
 
Web design by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos

It’s our 10-year anniversary and we’re basking in the glow of all we’ve accomplished, as well as the many treats we still have up our sleeves. The number 10 symbolizes one coming out of abundance. An abundance of food, recipes, creativity, hard work, and lots of love gave birth to Kukla’s Kouzina—a home to hundreds and hundreds of blogs and recipes, two cookbooks, and a fun cooking series, Flippin’ Greek! ™—and a decade of deliciousness to celebrate!
 
We’re marking this milestone occasion with one of our favorite dessert recipes, Greek Ekmek Kataifi (custard and whipped-cream over a syruped kataifi-phyllo crust)—it’s our way of saying thank you for your support, follows, likes, comments, and views. This pastry is perfect for any special occasion, so step into our kouzina and lets bake up a commemorative sweet!

EKMEK KATAIFI (Εκμέκ καταΐφι)
Kataifi is shredded phyllo dough that’s featured in a number of Greek pastries and savory dishes. It’s similar to the texture of shredded coconut and comes in long strands. This phyllo is incredibly easy to work with and makes the perfect crust for this lusciously creamy custard dessert. There are three layers to this pastry and all can be made ahead and stored separately until you’re ready to assemble.

KOUZINA TIPS:
*Leave the kataifi dough out at room temperature for 1 hour before opening the package and unrolling (if frozen, first thaw overnight in the refrigerator). This will soften the dough, making it pliable and easy to work with.
*For the whipped cream, it’s important that the mixing bowl, beaters, and cream are well chilled before whipping to ensure a proper result.
 
PREP TIME  40 minutes plus standing and chilling
COOKING/BAKING TIME  50 minutes
SERVES  8 to 10
 
KATAIFI CRUST
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted, plus 1 tablespoon more for pan
9 ounces kataifi dough, at room temperature (if frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature)
4 ounces unsalted pistachios (about 2/3 cup), chopped, lightly toasted
 
SYRUP
1 cup water
1 cup granulated sugar
Peel from half a lemon
1 small cinnamon stick
1 tablespoon Greek brandy (optional)
 
CUSTARD
5 large egg yolks
1 cup granulated sugar, divided
4 cups whole milk, divided
10 tablespoons cornstarch
Peel from half an orange
7 tablespoons unsalted butter
Small pinch vanilia (crystalized vanilla) or 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
 
WHIPPED CREAM
2 cups heavy cream, cold
1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
3/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
*
GARNISH (your choice)
1 cup shredded coconut, lightly toasted
1/2 to 3/4 cup chopped unsalted pistachios, lightly toasted
Assorted berries
Confectioners’ sugar
 
1. Make crust: Heat oven to 325°F and arrange rack in center. Lightly butter the bottom and 1/2 inch up sides of a 9-by-13-inch baking pan. Remove the kataifi dough from the packaging, unroll, and separate the strands, breaking up any clumps while fluffing it up. Spread half of the dough in the bottom of the prepared pan, sprinkle with half of the nuts, and evenly drizzle with half of the butter. Repeat with the remaining dough, nuts, and butter. Bake about 30 minutes, until golden throughout.
 
2. Meanwhile, make syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the water, sugar, lemon peel, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook, without stirring, for 8 minutes. Stir in the brandy (if using) and simmer 1 minute more. Remove from heat.
 
3. As soon as the crust is removed from the oven, evenly pour the lukewarm syrup over the hot crust and let cool completely. (Can be made ahead. Cool completely, then cover pan with plastic wrap and store at room temperature overnight.)
 
4. Make custard: In a large heatproof bowl, lightly whisk together the egg yolks and 1/2 cup sugar until combined and lightened. In a cup, stir together 1/2 cup milk and the cornstarch until the cornstarch has dissolved. Whisk the cornstarch mixture into the yolk mixture until the sugar has dissolved. In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the remaining 3 1/2 cups milk, 1/2 cup sugar, and the orange peel. Heat just to a boil and remove from heat. Gradually whisk a couple of ladles of hot milk mixture into the cornstarch mixture, whisking constantly, until combined (to temper the eggs). Whisk this back into the remaining hot mixture in the pan until combined well. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and thickened to the consistency of a custard, about 5 minutes (breaking up any lumps with the back of the spoon). Remove from heat, discard the peel, and stir in the butter and vanilia/vanilla until combined well.
 
5. Pour the hot custard over the crust and, using an offset spatula, evenly spread to the edges of the pan. Cover the custard directly with plastic wrap so that it’s touching the entire surface of the custard. This will keep the custard from forming a skin. Let cool completely, then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
 
6. Make whipped cream: In a chilled mixing bowl with chilled beaters, beat together the cold heavy cream, the confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla on high speed to stiff peaks (do not overbeat), 2 to 3 minutes. (Can be made ahead. Cover and refrigerate overnight.)
 
7. To assemble: Remove the plastic wrap from the surface of the custard. Using an offset spatula, evenly spread the whipped cream over the custard to the edges (for a an elegant presentation, place whipped cream in a piping bag fitted with a large [closed or open] star tip and pipe star shapes over the surface of the custard, covering completely). Top with your favorite garnish (we used toasted coconut and a dusting of confectioners’ sugar); if you’re using fresh fruit, garnish up to an hour before serving, as the juices can water down the whipped cream. (Can be made ahead. Place in an airtight container and refrigerate overnight.) Serve chilled for easier cutting.
 
Recipe © copyright Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style, kuklaskouzina.com
 
I hope you enjoy our Ekmek Kataifi recipe and that you make it to celebrate the special occasions in your life! For more about our journey to 10 years of deliciousness, check out our blogs: Growing Up In Kukla’s Kouzina and Kukla’s Kouzina~Coming Full Circle.
 
Sign up for our e-newsletter (if you haven’t already) and stay connected on social media for cooking tips and recipes, as well as for all Kukla's Kouzina updates and news.
 
Thanks for following us and we’ll see you next Monday!
 
Until then~
Kali orexi! Good appetite!
 
Kelly

Copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style / The Naked Truth About...Greek Cooking!

Web design by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos

The number 9 symbolizes compassion, kindness, and doing the greater good, so we’re taking all that warm and fuzzy and multiplying it in 9 layers of goodness. As we celebrate nine years filled with hundreds and hundreds of blogs, two cookbooks, and a fun cooking series, Flippin’ Greek! ™, we’re sharing one of our custom dessert recipes, Strawberry Mille-Fillo-Feuille (Greek Napoleon)—it’s our way of saying thank you for your follows, likes, comments, and views. It’s perfect for any special occasion, so step into our kouzina and lets bake up a 9-layer anniversary cake!
​

​STRAWBERRY MILLE-FILLO-FEUILLE (Greek Napoleon)
This Greek version of the classic French Napoleon uses phyllo sheets (instead of puff pastry) that are coated with a butter-honey mixture and baked to crisp, flaky perfection. We then layered them with pastry cream, berries, and almond slices, while offering additional garnish options (see this week's photo on our Home page).
 
KOUZINA TIPS:
1. Defrost the phyllo in the refrigerator overnight and let stand at room temperature 1 hour before using (see our blog Fillo (phyllo)—Learn to work with it and bake beautifully for more tips).
3. The phyllo layers, pastry cream, and whipped cream can be prepped ahead of time, making assembly quick and easy when you’re ready to serve.
2. To stretch the servings, make these with two or three layers of phyllo stacks instead of four.
 
PREP TIME: 25 minutes, plus standing and chilling
BAKING TIME: 12 minutes
COOKING TIME: 10 minutes
MAKES: 4 pastries (or up to 6 if you make fewer phyllo layers)
 
PHYLLO LAYERS
1/4 cup butter or olive oil, plus more for brushing baking sheets
2 tablespoons thyme honey
8 sheets #5 or #4 (14-by-18-inch) phyllo dough, thawed, at room temperature
 
PASTRY CREAM
4 cups whole milk, divided
1 cup granulated sugar, divided
5 large egg yolks
6 tablespoons cornstarch
1/3 cup butter
1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon pure almond extract
 
WHIPPED CREAM
3/4 cup heavy cream, chilled
3/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon confectioners’ sugar
*
2 pints fresh berries (if using strawberries, hulled and sliced)
Confectioners’ sugar, for garnish (optional)
About 1/4 cup toasted almond slices, for garnish
Chocolate, melted, for drizzling (optional)
 
1. Make phyllo layers: Heat oven to 350°F and arrange 2 racks in center. Brush 2 large rimmed heavy-duty baking sheets with butter or olive oil or line with parchment paper. Heat butter/olive oil and honey together, stirring, just until honey has dissolved; set aside. Stack the phyllo sheets and, using a sharp knife, cut in half crosswise, then stack sheets. On work surface, brush 1 phyllo half-sheet with butter mixture. Layer another half-sheet on top and repeat brushing and layering to form a stack of 4 half-sheets, brushing the top layer with butter mixture. Repeat with the remaining half-sheets to form 3 more stacks. Cut each of the stacks into 4 equal-sized rectangles or triangles to make a total of 16 stacks. Transfer the stacks to the prepared baking sheets and bake 8 to 12 minutes, until golden brown. Let cool to room temperature, about 15 minutes. (Can be made ahead. Store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 2 days.)
 
2. Meanwhile, make pastry cream: In a large saucepan, combine 3 1/2 cups milk and 1/2 cup sugar. In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and the remaining 1/2 cup sugar. In a cup, stir together the remaining 1/2 cup milk and the cornstarch until completely dissolved, then whisk into the egg-yolk mixture until completely combined; set aside but whisk again to combine just before adding to milk mixture in step 3.
 
3. Bring the milk mixture in the saucepan to a boil over medium heat, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Immediately but gradually whisk in the egg-yolk mixture, whisking constantly. Return to medium heat and whisk constantly until thickened, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in the butter until melted. Stir in the extracts. Transfer to a heatproof bowl and cover the surface of the custard with plastic wrap (this will keep a skin from forming on top). Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight.
 
4. Make whipped cream (for pastry cream): In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream to soft peaks. Beat in the vanilla extract and confectioners’ sugar just to stiff peaks. (Do not over-beat as the cream will then appear curdled and will resemble butter.) Cover and refrigerate until ready to use (up to 2 days).
 
5. Assemble: Remove the cream from the refrigerator and stir with a spatula until fluffy. Fold in the whipped cream until combined well.
 
6. Arrange 4 phyllo stacks on serving plates or a platter and, using a spatula, spread some of the pastry cream over each, then top with some of the berries. Repeat until you have 3 or 4 layers of phyllo, cream, and berries (if you do 3 layers, you'll have extra to make another pastry). Lightly dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired. (If you have extra cream, spread the remaining cream over the top of each.) Top with almond slices and drizzle with melted chocolate, if desired. (Can be made up to 2 hours ahead. Refrigerate in an airtight container until ready to serve.)
 
Recipe copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style, kuklaskouzina.com
 
Thanks for celebrating our website’s 9-Year Anniversary and for supporting us along the way. You’re an important part of our journey! I’ll be sharing more fun recipes in upcoming blogs, so check back to see what’s cooking at Kukla’s. For more about our Kukla’s Kouzina journey, visit our Coming Full Circle post. For photos of our foods, Kukla, us, and our next generation, visit our Gallery page.
 
Sign up for our e-newsletter (if you haven’t already) and stay connected on social media for cooking tips and recipes, as well as for all Kukla's Kouzina updates and news.
 
Thanks for celebrating with us and we’ll see you next Monday!
 
Until then~
Kali orexi! Good appetite!
 
Kelly

Copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style / Flippin’ Greek!™ / The Naked Truth About...Greek Cooking!    
 
Web design by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos

​When it comes to Pascha (Greek Easter), a custard pastry is always on the dessert menu. The cream-filled phyllo and sweet citrus aroma are cause for celebration. To double the pleasure, we added fruit to a classic bougatsa (Greek custard pastry) in a phyllo crust that is nothing short of irresistible. Instead of topping the pie with more phyllo layers, we went with almond slices for a unique and tasty spin on the typical bougatsa. A final dusting of confectioners’ sugar and cinnamon makes this dessert picture perfect.
​

BOUGATSA WITH FRUIT AND ALMONDS (Mbougatsa me Fruita ke Amigdala, μπουγάτσα με φρούτα και αμύγδαλα)

Sautéed spiced fruit, classic Greek semolina-custard, a sliced-almond topping—nested in a flaky phyllo crust—bring all of our favorite things together in one sweet dish. Talk about taking dessert to whole new level of scrumptious (make-ahead instructions included)! Perfect for an elegant Pascha-dinner finale.
 
Fruit options (semi-firm): quince, plums, apricots, peaches, bosc pears, peeled and cored apples (such as Fuji, Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Braeburn)
 
KOUZINA TIPS:
1. Choose fruit that’s semi-firm the slices hold their shape while baking.
2. The key to a creamy custard is stirring constantly. If you don’t, the custard will stick to the bottom of the pan and will get lumpy, so stir, stir, STIR!
3. We prefer the slightly thicker #5 phyllo sheets (compared to #4) because they’re easier to work with, but still result in a flaky pastry.
 
PREP TIME  30 minutes plus standing
COOKING TIME  about 30 minutes
BAKING TIME  40 minutes
SERVES 8
 
FRUIT TOPPING
2 teaspoons flour
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Small pinch cardamom
Small pinch freshly grated nutmeg
1 1/4 pounds semi-firm fruit (see options above), pitted and cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices
2 tablespoons light brown sugar
2 tablespoons Greek thyme honey
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon Greek brandy
 
CUSTARD FILLING
3 large eggs
2/3 cup granulated sugar
Small pinch vanilia (crystalized vanilla) or 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
3 cups whole milk
Peel of half lemon
1/2 cup fine semolina
 
CRUST
3 tablespoons olive oil, for brushing pie plate and phyllo, and for almonds
6 sheets #5 or #4 (14-by-18-inch) phyllo dough, thawed, at room temperature
Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
*
3/4 cup sliced almonds
Confectioners’ sugar and cinnamon, for dusting
 
1. Make fruit topping: In a small bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg; set aside. In a large bowl, gently toss together the fruit slices, brown sugar, honey, and lemon juice. In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the fruit and the liquid in the bowl and simmer until slices are just fork tender but still holding their shape, 5 to 6 minutes (do not overcook). Stir in the brandy and the flour-spice mixture until combined; cook until liquid has thickened, about 2 minutes more. Pour into a heatproof bowl and let stand until cooled, about 1 hour. (Can be made ahead. Cool completely, then cover and refrigerate overnight.)
 
2. Make custard filling: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilia (if using vanilla extract, add at the end of this step) until lightened; set aside. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the milk and lemon peel to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook 10 minutes. Gradually stir about 1/2 cup of the hot milk into the egg mixture until combined (to temper the eggs), then gradually stir the egg mixture into the milk in the pan until combined; simmer over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and creamy, 3 to 4 minutes. Using a wooden spoon, gradually stir in the semolina until combined; cook over very low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and smooth, about 5 minutes (breaking up any lumps with the back of the spoon). Remove from heat and discard the lemon peel. Cover the saucepan with a damp clean kitchen towel (it should not touch the custard) and the saucepan lid (this will help prevent a skin from forming on the surface of the custard), and let cool completely. If using vanilla extract, when custard has cooled, stir in until combined.
 
3. Make crust: Heat oven to 325°F and lightly oil a 9-inch pie plate. Center 1 sheet of phyllo in pie plate, gently fitting into the corners (keep remaining sheets covered with a clean kitchen towel to prevent drying). Brush phyllo sheet with olive oil all the way to the overhanging edges. Repeat with remaining sheets and olive oil, brushing the top sheet. Trim the corners of the phyllo crust to form a round with a 2-inch overhang. Fold the overhang into the pie plate, forming an edge that extends about 1/2 inch above the plate.
 
4. Arrange the fruit evenly in the crust and pour the custard over the top, spreading evenly to the edges. Bake 30 minutes.

5. Meanwhile, toss the almond slices with 1/2 teaspoon olive oil until coated well (or you can lightly coat with olive-oil spray in a can); set aside. 

​6. Remove the pastry from the oven and top evenly with the almond slices. Bake about 10 minutes more, until the center of the custard is set (just slightly jiggly) and the almonds are golden. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool completely before cutting. (Can be made ahead. Cool completely, then place in an airtight container and refrigerate up to 2 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.)
 
7. Just before serving, dust the pie with confectioners’ sugar and cinnamon. Serve at room temperature.
 
Recipe © copyright Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style, kuklaskouzina.com
 
I hope you enjoy our fruit-and-almond bougatsa recipe and that it puts a finishing sweet note on your Pascha/Easter!
 
Sign up for our e-newsletter (if you haven’t already) and stay connected on social media for cooking tips and recipes, as well as for all Kukla's Kouzina updates and news.
 
Thanks for following us and we’ll see you next Monday!
 
Until then~
Kali orexi! Good appetite!
 
Kelly

​Copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style / The Naked Truth About...Greek Cooking!    
 
Web design by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos

Apples have been cultivated in Greece for thousands of years and Greek mythology is filled with nods to this noble fruit. Apples were presented to Hera when she wed Zeus, so it’s no wonder why they became prominent in engagements and wedding celebrations. They’ve also been touted for bestowing long life and health, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away”! The once rare and prized fruit is now plentiful, and there are as many ways to eat apples as there are, well, apples (over 7,500 varieties worldwide).

A Thanksgiving celebration begs for an apple dessert and whether you’re heading to the farms to pick them yourself or getting them from your local grocer, our month-long gala of this fall fruit will give you lots of recipes to make the most out of your holiday dessert. These Greek recipes have been passed down through the generations and have “milo” (meaning “apple”) in their names, so there you go!

GREEK APPLE PHYLLO PIE (Milopita me Fillo, μηλόπιτα με φúλλο)
Apples fill this rustic phyllo crust—lower in fat than traditional pastry—that’s easy, delicious, and an elegant dessert-tray centerpiece. Perfect for Thanksgiving or for making after apple picking.
 
KOUZINA TIP: Choose apples that are semi-firm so they hold their shape while baking. Folding over the phyllo edges is freestyle and doesn’t have to be perfect—the definition of rustic beauty!
 
PREP TIME  20 minutes
COOKING TIME  8 minutes
BAKING TIME  30 minutes
SERVES  6 to 8
 
APPLE FILLING
1 tablespoon flour
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch cardamom
Pinch freshly grated nutmeg
5 medium (about 2 1/2 pounds) semi-firm apples (such as Fuji, Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Braeburn), peeled, cored, and cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices
1/4 cup light brown sugar
1/4 cup Greek thyme honey, warmed, divided
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut up, divided
2 tablespoons Greek brandy
2 tablespoons raisins (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped walnuts (or pecans), lightly toasted (optional)
 
CRUST
3 tablespoons olive oil, for brushing pie plate and phyllo
6 sheets #5 or #4 (14-by-18-inch) phyllo dough, thawed, at room temperature
Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
 
1. Make apple filling: In a small bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg; set aside. In a large bowl, gently toss together the apple slices, brown sugar, 3 tablespoons honey, and the lemon juice. In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt 2 teaspoons butter. Add the apples and the liquid in the bowl and simmer until apples are just fork tender but still holding their shape, 5 to 6 minutes (do not overcook). Using a slotted spoon, transfer the apple slices to a large heatproof bowl, leaving liquid in skillet. Add brandy to the skillet and simmer until the liquid is reduced by half, about 1 minute. Stir in the flour-spice mixture until combined and cook until slightly thickened, about 1 minute more. Immediately pour over apples, sprinkle with raisins (if using), and gently toss to combine. Let stand until completely cooled, about 1 hour, or cover and refrigerate overnight.
 
2. Make crust: Heat oven to 350°F and lightly oil a 9-inch pie plate. Center 1 sheet of phyllo in pie plate, gently fitting into the corners (keep remaining sheets covered with a clean kitchen towel to prevent drying). Brush phyllo sheet with olive oil all the way to the overhanging edges. Repeat with remaining sheets and olive oil, brushing the top sheet. Trim the corners of the phyllo crust to form a round with a 3- to 4-inch overhang; reserve scraps.
 
3. Fill crust with the apple mixture, mounding slightly in the center. Top evenly with the remaining 1 tablespoon warm honey and 1 teaspoon butter. Sprinkle with nuts (if using). Fold the phyllo edges over the apples, covering by 2 to 3 inches, pleating the phyllo as you go (to shape). Brush phyllo edges with olive oil. Crinkle the reserved phyllo scraps and place evenly over the apples, if desired.
 
4. Bake about 30 minutes, until phyllo is completely golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool to warm, about 15 minutes. (Can be made ahead. Cool completely, then place in an airtight container and refrigerate up to 2 days.) Serve warm or at room temperature. Sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar just before serving.
​ 
Recipe © copyright Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style, kuklaskouzina.com
 
I hope you enjoyed our second week of apple recipes that will put a finishing sweet note on your Thanksgiving!
 
Sign up for our e-newsletter (if you haven’t already) and stay connected on social media for cooking tips and recipes, as well as for all Kukla's Kouzina updates and news.
 
Thanks for following us and we’ll see you next Monday!
 
Until then~
Kali orexi! Good appetite!
 
Kelly

​Copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style / The Naked Truth About...Greek Cooking!    
 
Web design by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos

​Thanksgiving begs for an apple dessert and whether you’re heading to the farms to pick them yourself or getting them from your local grocer, our month-long celebration of this fall fruit will give you lots of recipes to make the most out of your holiday finale.

​But these aren’t just ordinary apple recipes, they’re Greek (now common, you had to see that one coming)! Some people ask if we have apples in Greece, particularly on the islands…if we have apple recipes, then of course we have apples. All of these recipes have been passed down through the generations and have “milo” (meaning “apple”) in their names, so there you go!

GREEK APPLE CAKE (Milopita, μηλόπιτα)
Apples are the star of this warm spice cake scented with cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, along with sweet raisins and the delicate crunch of toasted walnuts. Perfect for Thanksgiving or for making after apple picking.
 
KOUZINA TIP: Choose apples that are semi-firm so they hold their shape while baking. Be sure to let the cake stand before inverting to allow the apples and juices to set as they cool.
 
PREP TIME  20 minutes
BAKING TIME  45 minutes
SERVES  8
 
2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for pan
2 medium semi-firm apples (such as Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
1 cup light brown sugar, divided
1/4 cup granulated sugar, divided
1 1/2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/4 cup raisins
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
1 medium apple, grated
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (or pecans), lightly toasted
1 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs, separated
3/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
 
1. Heat oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. Line bottom of pan with parchment paper and grease paper. Lightly flour bottom and sides of pan.
 
2. In a large bowl, gently toss together the sliced apples, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and the butter. In the prepared pan, arrange the apple slices in a circle. Evenly sprinkle the raisins over the apples and evenly pour the juice in the bowl over the top.
 
3. In another bowl, sift together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cloves. Stir in the grated apple and walnuts until combined well.
 
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the oil, remaining 1/2 cup brown sugar and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, the egg yolks, and extract. Whisk in the flour mixture until just combined. In a medium bowl, with clean beaters, beat the egg whites to soft peaks, then gently fold into the batter until just combined. Pour the batter over the apples in the pan, evenly spreading to the edges.
 
5. Bake about 45 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in pan on a wire rack about 30 minutes, then invert (run a knife around the edges to release cake, if necessary) onto a serving platter and peel off parchment. Serve warm or at room temperature.
 
Recipe © copyright Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style, kuklaskouzina.com
 
I hope you enjoy making our apple cake, the first in a month of apple recipes that will put a finishing sweet note on your Thanksgiving!
 
Sign up for our e-newsletter (if you haven’t already) and stay connected on social media for cooking tips and recipes, as well as for all Kukla's Kouzina updates and news.
 
Thanks for following us and we’ll see you next Monday!
 
Until then~
Kali orexi! Good appetite!
 
Kelly

​Copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style / The Naked Truth About...Greek Cooking!    
 
Web design by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos

The number eight symbolizes joy, abundance, good luck, harmony, and power, so we’re feeling pretty good about turning 8.

As we celebrate eight years filled with hundreds and hundreds of blogs, two cookbooks, and an exciting new cooking series, Flippin’ Greek! ™, we’re sharing one of our favorite dessert recipes, Pantespani with Whipped Cream and Strawberries—it’s our way of saying thank you for your follows, likes, comments, and views.

​Step into our kouzina and lets bake up a Magic-8 cake!

Pantespani / Pandespani (Παντεσπάνι) is a light cake similar to sponge cake. instead of a traditional syrup, we added whipped cream and fresh strawberries to perfectly decorate this brilliant dessert. Serve with a Greek coffee or a shot of brandy, light a candle, and celebrate with us! 

KOUZINA TIP: For the whipped cream, chill the mixing bowl and beaters at least 1 hour before using. If you don’t have vanilia, use 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract and beat in after the sugar.
 
PREP TIME: 20 minutes plus standing
BAKING TIME: 35 minutes for 9-inch springform cake
SERVINGS: 6 to 8
 
6 large eggs, separated
1 cup unbleached cake flour (not self-rising), plus more for pan
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
Pinch vanilia (vanilla powder)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar, divided
Zest of 1 lemon or orange
3/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
 
WHIPPED CREAM
2 cups cold heavy or whipping cream
1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
*
6 large strawberries, cored and sliced
5 large whole or halved strawberries, for top of cake
 
1. Heat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour one 9-inch springform pan (or three round or square 9-inch pans). Line the bottom of each with parchment paper; grease and flour the paper. Separate the cold eggs, placing the whites in a clean mixer bowl and the yolks in another bowl. Cover both with plastic wrap and let stand until they are room temperature, about 30 minutes.
 
2. In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and the vanilia. Set aside.
 
3. In a mixer bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually beat in 2/3 cup granulated sugar; beat until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolks, one at a time, until combined well and lightened in color. Stir in the zest. Set aside while beating the egg whites.
 
4. Using clean whisk attachment, beat the egg whites until foamy. Add the cream of tartar and beat to soft peaks. Gradually add the remaining 1/3 cup granulated sugar and beat to shiny, just stiff peaks.
 
5. Sift one third of the flour mixture over the egg yolk mixture and, using a rubber spatula, gently fold in until just combined; repeat with the remaining flour mixture, one third at a time. Gently fold a quarter of the beaten egg whites into the cake batter until combined and lightened, then gradually and gently fold in the remaining whites just until combined (do not overmix or the batter will deflate). Pour into the prepared pan(s), spreading evenly, and bake 28 to 35 minutes for 9-inch springform (20 to 24 minutes if making three thinner layers), until risen, golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few crumbs clinging to it. Transfer to a rack and let cool in pan(s) one hour. Invert cake(s) onto a wire rack(s), peel off the paper, and let cool completely. (Can be made ahead. Place in an airtight container and refrigerate up to 2 days.) If made in one springform pan, cut the cake horizontally into three equal layers.
 
6. Make Whipped Cream: In a chilled mixer bowl using chilled beaters, beat the heavy cream on high speed to soft peaks. Gradually beat in the confectioners’ sugar just to stiff peaks (do not overbeat). (Can be made ahead. Cover and refrigerate up to 1 day.)
 
7. Place one cake layer on a serving plate, top with one quarter of the whipped cream and half of the sliced strawberries; repeat with a second layer, whipped cream and remaining sliced strawberries. Top with the remaining cake layer and cover top and sides with the remaining whipped cream. Decorate with the whole or halved strawberries and serve.
 
Recipes copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style
 
Thanks for celebrating our website’s 8-Year Anniversary and for supporting us along the way. You’re an important part of our journey! I’ll be sharing more fun recipes in upcoming blogs, so check back to see what’s cooking at Kukla’s. For more about our Kukla’s Kouzina journey, visit our Coming Full Circle post. For photos of our foods, Kukla, us, and our next generation, visit our Gallery page.

Sign up for our e-newsletter (if you haven’t already) and stay connected on social media for cooking tips and recipes, as well as for all Kukla's Kouzina updates and news.
 
Thanks for celebrating with us and we’ll see you next Monday!
 
Until then~
Kali orexi! Good appetite!
 
Kelly

​Copyright © 2021 Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style / Flippin’ Greek!™ / The Naked Truth About...Greek Cooking!    
 
Web design by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos

This exceptional pastry is perfect for any occasion, especially for Cheesefare Week. The filling for these sweet tyropitakia (cheese pies) features our recipe for thick homemade Greek yogurt that we combine with feta, honey, and thyme. Outside is crisp, golden phyllo that’s sprinkled with white and black sesame seeds, and a dusting of cinnamon and confectioners' sugar as a flavorful option. Dessert perfection!

Authentic ingredients are key for quality results, so use imported sheep’s-milk feta and Greek thyme honey. Work quickly when using phyllo dough, keeping it covered with plastic wrap and a damp kitchen towel to prevent it from drying out between uses. When folding the pastry, don’t fold too snuggly as it may cause the packets to burst while baking.
 
PREP TIME: 15 minutes (plus time for making yogurt)
BAKING TIME: 25 to 30 minutes
MAKES: 4 servings
 
FILLING
5 ounces sheep's-milk feta, crumbled
1/4 cup plain homemade drained yogurt (or 2% or 5% thick Greek yogurt)
1 large egg, lightly beaten
3 tablespoons thyme honey
½ teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, plus sprigs for garnish
*
4 (9-by-14-inch) #4 or #5 sheets phyllo dough, at room temperature (if frozen, thawed according to package directions)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
About ½ teaspoon sesame seeds
About ½ teaspoon black sesame seeds
Ground cinnamon, for dusting (optional)
Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
 
1. Heat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a rimmed baking sheet and set aside. In a bowl, mix together the feta, yogurt, egg, honey, and thyme leaves until combined well.
 
2. Place 1 phyllo sheet on your work surface with the wide end facing you. Brush with butter and fold over horizontally to form a 9-by-7-inch rectangle and brush with butter. Place one quarter of the filling on the end closest to you, leaving a 2-inch border and fold in the sides; brush the sides with butter. Fold the phyllo end closest to you over the filling and continue folding to the end of the phyllo to form a packet; brush all over with butter. Place the packet, seam side down, on the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Repeat with the remaining phyllo, butter, filling, and seeds to make 3 more packets.
 
3. Bake 25 to 30 minutes, until phyllo is golden brown throughout. Transfer to serving plates, garnish with thyme sprigs and lightly dust with cinnamon and confectioners’ sugar, if desired. Serve warm.
 
Recipe by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos
Copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style  
 
For other recipes using Greek yogurt, check out our blogs:
Greek Chocolate Love featuring Chocolate Soufflés with Greek Yogurt
Mediterranean Diet Resolution Recipes: Sweet Success featuring Berry-Oat Parfait

To learn more about Greek cheeses and Cheesefare Week, check out our blog, Greek Cheese~Delectable Varieties & Uses.

Greek Yogurt is also featured in our Tzatziki recipe, from our Meze and Spreads & Dips cookbooks.

I hope you enjoy making this week’s pastry. Stay tuned for more Greek recipes in upcoming blogs.
 
Sign up for our e-newsletter (if you haven’t already) and stay connected on social media for cooking tips and recipes, as well as for all Kukla's Kouzina updates and news.
 
Thanks for following us and we’ll see you next Monday!
 
Until then~
Kali orexi! Good appetite!
 
Kelly

​Copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style / The Naked Truth About...Greek Cooking!    
 
Web design by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos

It’s a big fat Greek Valentine dinner, from a champagne toast, to an artichoke app, to tomato-pepper soup, to a seared-lamb entrée, to a bonus strawberries-and-cream-cake finale—your tummy will fall in love, Greek-island style!
 
The recipes below link to how-to videos on our YouTube cooking series, Flippin’ Greek! ™, to show you how we do it in our kouzina. Join us!
​

GREEK CHAMPAGNE COCKTAIL (episode S2 E21)
We’re launching our Valentine It Greek week with a toast to get you in a love-intoxicated mood. Five minutes is all it takes to stir up a bubbly start to our restaurant-inspired meal (below). Celebrate each other and this fabulous menu—we Flippin’ Greek heart it!
 
TOTAL PREP TIME: 5 minutes plus standing
SERVINGS: 2
 
KOUZINA TIPS: For a non-alcoholic beverage, substitute grapefruit or pomegranate juice for the brandy and sparkling white-grape or apple cider for the champagne/prosecco.
To make the orange curls, cut four 3-inch long strips of orange peel and twist each into a curl. Secure with a clip for a minute to set the shape.
 
2 large or 4 small brown-sugar cubes
2 tablespoons Metaxa brandy
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
2/3 cup champagne or prosecco
4 orange-rind curls, for garnish
 
In each of 2 tall champagne glasses, place sugar cube(s) and 1 tablespoon brandy. Let stand 1 to 2 minutes to allow the cube(s) to absorb the brandy. Into each, stir 2 tablespoons orange juice and 1/3 cup champagne/prosecco. Drop 1 curl into each beverage and garnish each rim with 1 curl, if desired. Stin igia sou! Cheers!

ARTICHOKE-FETA CUPS (episode S2 E22)
We’re spreading the love with an appetizer using artichoke hearts as the base for this phyllo-cup filling that can also be served as a dip/spread or as a side with Thursday’s seared-lamb main course.
 
PREP TIME: 15 minutes
COOKING/BAKING TIME: about 25 minutes
SERVINGS: 4 to 6
 
2 cans (15-oz each) artichoke hearts
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup chopped scallion
1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
1 package (10 oz) baby spinach
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
*
2 packages frozen phyllo cups (or pita chips)
 
1. Drain the artichokes in a colander and rinse under cold water; drain well. Chop the artichokes and transfer to a large bowl. Pour the lemon juice over artichokes and toss to coat well. Season with the salt and pepper. Set aside.
 
2. Heat oven to 350°F. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil and add the scallion and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 2 minutes. Add the spinach and sauté just until wilted. Add to the artichokes and stir to combine well.
 
3. In a small bowl, stir together the feta, dill, and yogurt until combined well; add to the artichoke mixture and stir until combined.
 
4. Divide the artichoke mixture among the phyllo cups* and place on a cookie sheet. Bake about 20 minutes, until lightly golden on top. (Can be made ahead. Cover and refrigerate up to 1 day. Reheat in a 350°F until warm, about 10 minutes.) Serve warm.

• DIP/SPREAD: If not using phyllo cups, place the artichoke mixture in a heatproof baking dish, spreading out evenly, and bake about 20 minutes, until lightly golden on top. Serve warm with pita chips.

ROASTED RED PEPPER-TOMATO BASIL SOUP
​(episode S2 E23)
This soup is all about the red, and the combination of roasted bell pepper, tomato, and seasonings deliver in this elegant second course that will elevate your home cook to 5-star restaurant-chef status.
 
PREP TIME: 15 minutes plus standing
COOKING TIME: about 50 minutes
SERVINGS: 6
 
2 large red bell peppers
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
6 canned plum tomatoes, seeded and chopped
1/4 of 1 carrot or 2 baby carrots, peeled
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
5 to 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth (use the lesser amount for a thicker soup)
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/8 teaspoon Aleppo pepper
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus more leaves for garnish
 
1. Heat broiler. Lightly coat the bell peppers with olive oil and roast about 5 minutes, turning every minute, until charred on all sides. Transfer to a paper bag and seal for 15 minutes, then peel, seed and core. Chop the peppers and set aside.
 
2. In a large saucepan, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat and cook the onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 minute. Stir in the tomato, bell pepper, carrot, thyme, and paprika. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook until thickened, about 15 minutes.
 
3. Add the broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer, partially covered, until the tomatoes and bell peppers are tender, about 25 minutes.
 
4. Puree with an immersion blender or strain broth into another saucepan and transfer the vegetable solids to a food processor and puree until smooth. Add the puree back to the broth, stir in the basil, and heat through. (Can be made ahead. Cover and refrigerate up to 1 day.) Serve hot garnished with basil leaves, if desired.

SEARED LAMB WITH ROASTED RED PEPPER SAUCE
(episode S2 E24)
For our Valentine it Greek main course, we marinated lamb with Greek herbs and flavorings before searing it to juicy perfection. A Roasted Red Pepper Sauce adds the love-ly color of the occasion. This quick and easy entrée has all the earmarks of dining out but it’ll shine in your own home.
 
For the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce: see the Kasseri Sticks recipe in our Super Bowl Fryers blog, video on Flippin' Greek! )
 
PREP TIME: 15 minutes plus standing
COOKING TIME: about 25 minutes
SERVINGS: 6
 
2 1/2 pounds butterflied leg of lamb (deboned)
 
MARINADE
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
*
3 garlic cloves, sliced
 
TOPPING
1/2 cup Roasted Red Pepper Sauce (recipe in Super Bowl Fryers blog, video on Flippin' Greek! )
1/4 cup grated kefalograviera cheese (optional)
 
1. Rinse lamb and pat dry. Place in a large casserole dish or roasting pan.
 
2. Make marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub all over the lamb, covering all sides. Make small slits in the meat and stuff with garlic slices. Cover and let stand at room temperature 30 minutes.
 
3. Heat grill or grill pan and place lamb, fat side down, on grill. Cook 10 minutes per side for medium-rare (12 minutes per side for medium, 14 minutes per side for well-done). Transfer to a warmed plate, cover loosely with foil, and let rest 10 minutes before cutting.
 
 4. Meanwhile, prepare Roasted Red Pepper Sauce.
 
5. Slice the lamb against the grain (like a steak). Drizzle the sauce over the center of the lamb and sprinkle with grated kefalograviera cheese (if using). Serve immediately.

HEART-SHAPED PANTESPANI WITH STRAWBERRY-WHIPPED CREAM
Pantespani / Pandespani (Παντεσπάνι) is a light cake similar to angel food or sponge cake. Our fresh strawberry-infused whipped cream is the perfect topping for this love-ly dessert. Serve with a Greek coffee or a shot of brandy for a warm menu finale. Light a candle and have a delish Flippin’ Greek Valentine! 
​
KOUZINA TIP: For the whipped cream, chill the mixing bowl and beaters at least 1 hour before using. If you don’t have vanilia, use 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract and beat in after the sugar.
 
PREP TIME: 20 minutes
BAKING TIME: 35 minutes for 9-inch cake, about 20 minutes for minis
SERVINGS: 6
 
2 cups unbleached cake flour (not self-rising), plus more for pan
2 teaspoons baking powder
Pinch vanilia (vanilla powder)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
6 large eggs, separated
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
Grated zest of 2 lemons
Pinch sea salt
 
STRAWBERRY WHIPPED CREAM
1 cup cold heavy or whipping cream
1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
5 large strawberries, pureed
 
1. Heat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9-inch heart-shaped cake pan or 6 mini heart-shaped pans. In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and vanilia.
 
2. In a mixer bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually beat in the sugar; beat until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolks, one at a time, until combined well. Alternately beat in the flour mixture and yogurt, beginning and ending with flour mixture, until incorporated. Stir in the zest.
 
3. In a clean mixer bowl with clean beaters, beat the egg whites with the salt to stiff but not dry peaks. Fold half of the beaten whites into the cake batter until combined, then fold in the remaining whites until combined well. Pour into the prepared pan(s), spreading evenly, and bake about 35 minutes for 9-inch cake (about 20 minutes for minis), until risen, golden, and a toothpick inserted in center comes out with just a few crumbs clinging to it. Transfer to a rack and let cool in pan(s). (Can be made ahead. Store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 1 day.)
 
4. Make Strawberry Whipped Cream: In a chilled mixer bowl using chilled beaters, beat the heavy cream on high speed to soft peaks. Gradually beat in the confectioners’ sugar just to stiff peaks (do not overbeat). (Can be made ahead. Cover and refrigerate up to 1 day.) Whisk in the strawberry puree just before serving.
 
Recipes copyright © Kukla's Kouzina 
 
I hope you enjoy our Valentine It Greek menu. Join us next week as explore Pita-bilities—four ways to get creative with pita bread, Greek style!
 
Sign up for our e-newsletter (if you haven’t already) and stay connected on social media for cooking tips and recipes, as well as for all Kukla's Kouzina updates and news.
 
Thanks for following us and we’ll see you here and on YouTube next Monday!
 
Until then~
Kali orexi! Good appetite!
 
Kelly

 
ABOUT Kukla’s Kouzina Flippin’ Greek! ™
Flippin’ Greek! ™ is our YouTube  cooking series featuring familiar non-Greek recipes we flipped to Greek-island style using ingredients and cooking techniques found in Karpathos. Each episode runs 2 to 15 minutes, the perfect length for viewers to quickly learn how to recreate foods and beverages/cocktails right alongside us.
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The ingredients used in Greek-island cuisine is what sets this style of cooking apart from standard Greek fare, giving meals a fresh take that keeps them interesting. Karpathos, the home of Kukla’s Kouzina, has its own unique style, and we’ll show you how to take common dishes and reinvent them into Karpathian versions with our simple substitutions.
 
Many think that everyday Greek cooking is made up of dishes like spanakopita (spinach pie), moussaka, and pastitsio. These are classics for sure, but too time-consuming to make on a regular basis. During our time in Karpathos, we learned that the locals’ quick meals made from the island’s staples like fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs, spices, and protein, prepared using certain methods, came out tasting Greek-island delicious. So we thought this would be a great way to bring our hometown flavor into YOUR kouzina, adding some spicy variety to your life while keeping it simple and fast. Recipes for each week will be posted right here on our blog with links to the episodes.

​Copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style / Flippin’ Greek!™ / The Naked Truth About...Greek Cooking!    
 
Web design by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos

There’s no denying that when it comes to love, chocolate is the ultimate food pleasure. Chocolate and joy go hand-in-hand, and when you’re filled with joy, you love longer. Whether you’re celebrating with your sweetheart, family, or dear friends, this soufflé is an ideal way to spread joy and show how much you adore them!
 
To go all out with a heart theme, you can use heart-shaped ramekins or cut out a paper heart, place it in the middle of the baked soufflé, and dust confectioners’ sugar over the top, then remove the paper for an easy way to say I love you!

​Dark chocolate, coffee, almond essence, and thick Greek yogurt combine to create this deliciously intense dessert. The perfect match for a passionate heart!
 
PREP TIME: 15 minutes plus standing
COOK/BAKE TIME: about 25 minutes
MAKES: 6 servings
 
Unsalted butter, for ramekins
1/2 cup granulated sugar, plus more for ramekins
8 ounces bittersweet (60% cacao) dark chocolate chips
2 tablespoons brewed coffee
1/2 cup plain reduced-fat (2%) Greek yogurt
4 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon pure almond extract
6 large egg whites, at room-temperature
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
 
Confectioners’ sugar, for sifting
Ripe berries, for serving
 
1. Generously butter six 6-ounce ramekins (if using 5-ounce ramekins, you’ll need seven; if using 4-ounce ramekins, you’ll need eight), coating the rims, then sprinkle each with 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, turning the ramekins to coat (like flouring a cake pan). Tap out excess sugar. Transfer the ramekins to a rimmed baking sheet.
 
2. Preheat oven to 400°F. Place the chocolate and coffee in a large heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (the water should not touch the bowl). Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until the chocolate is melted and smooth, about 10 minutes. Remove the bowl from the heat and let stand until slightly cooled, about 10 minutes.
 
3. Whisk the yogurt into the chocolate mixture until smooth, then whisk in the egg yolks and extracts until combined well.
 
4. In a large mixer bowl, beat together the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium-high speed to soft peaks. Gradually add the 1/2 cup granulated sugar and beat to stiff, glossy peaks (do not overbeat).
 
5. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold one-third of the egg-white mixture into the chocolate mixture to lighten. Fold in the remaining egg-white mixture in two batches, gently folding all the way to the bottom to incorporate the whites without deflating, until hardly any white streaks are visible.
 
6. Spoon the batter into the prepared ramekins, filling completely and gently tapping the ramekins to settle the batter. Using a dough scraper or the back of a knife, scrape the edge over the tops of the ramekins to level, resulting in a flat top on the baked soufflés. Immediately bake the soufflés until puffed and risen above the top of the rims, 12 to 15 minutes. Dust each with confectioners’ sugar and serve immediately with berries.
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Recipe by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos
Copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style, kuklaskouzina.com  
 
I hope you enjoy this week’s post and that your Valentine’s Day, and every day, is overflowing with Greek Chocolate Love !
 
Sign up for our e-newsletter (if you haven’t already) and stay connected on social media for cooking tips and recipes, as well as for all Kukla's Kouzina updates and news.
 
Thanks for following us and we’ll see you next Monday.
 
Until then~
Kali orexi! Good appetite!
 
Kelly

​Copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style / The Naked Truth About...Greek Cooking!    
 
Web design by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos