Over the past year, Greek cuisine has been steadily making a mark in the UK food scene. Thanks to passionate Greek restaurateurs and suppliers, Greek food is becoming more accessible for Britons to enjoy.
Several cuisines such as Asian, American, and Italian have stayed in the spotlight for a while now. It’s easy to spot these restaurants wherever you go. As for Greek restaurants, it has been only recently that it’s making its presence felt in the UK’s restaurant sector.
Greek restaurant operators see growth potential for Greek cuisine as they continue to roll out new concepts. For instance, souvlaki’s flexibility in nature could mean that it can reach the level of popularity of burgers or burritos.
Now that Greek food is making a buzz across the UK, it’s about time to get to know some of the most recommended Greek cuisine choices you can try.
1. Moussaka
Probably the most popular traditional Greek dish that Brits are familiar with is moussaka. This dish is packed with aubergine layers, potatoes, and minced meat; and added with a creamy béchamel sauce on top before baking until it is golden brown. A vegetarian version is also made available for this one.
2. Koulouri
A large sesame seed-covered soft bread makes it a perfect breakfast food. Perfectly paired with a cup of coffee that you can enjoy when on the go or when relaxing at home. Some bread variations include plain, stuffed with fillings like chocolate spread, cheese, tahini, and sometimes even without sesame seeds.
3. Souvlaki
If you’re looking for a Greek version of the usual Middle Eastern kebab, souvlaki is the answer for you. A skewer full of meat, pork, chicken, beef or fish, that’s been marinated in lemon juice and olive oil along with herbs and spices like oregano, salt, pepper, and garlic before it is grilled. You can have it with cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and peppers as sides or mixed in the skewer with the meat. Some people also eat this with grilled pita like a sandwich.
4. Baklava
A popular dish found all over Greece, the Middle East, and Turkey has gained attention in the UK. Baklavas are sweet pastries soaked in sweetened syrup and layered with crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts. This small, delectable treat is worth giving a try.
5. Pastitsio
This is another Greek comfort food that is often compared to Italian lasagna. Instead of pasta sheets, small macaroni is used for this dish. It is then layered with ground beef or lamb mixed with béchamel sauce. Some people prefer adding nutmeg, cinnamon, or Greek herbs for additional flavour. Other recipes include grated cheese as a topping before leaving in the oven to bake.
6. Fasolatha
Here are another one of classic Greece’s national dishes. Fasolatha is a white bean and tomato soup made from beans, carrots, crushed tomatoes, onions, and celery. Seasoned with thyme, bay leaves, or parsley to complete the easy and flavorful soup. It is a recommended healthy dish because it’s high in protein and has loads of vegetables in it.
7. Spanakopita
If you’re looking for a pie option, you will love this dish. It has many variations, from enriched dough with different fillings. The classic version is a phyllo pastry with layers of feta cheese and spinach seasoned with dill. Another recipe, also called tyropita, is a crunchier version of phyllo pastry covering the tasty cheese filling.
ChefOnline has many delicious greek options for your lunch or tea. Check them out today.
