Taramokeftedes # 2 - Fried tarama balls with bread and fresh herbs

One of the most tasty meze of the traditional Greek cuisine and one of the most popular dishes during the fasting period of "Sarakosti" (which started this week) and a shiny star at the table on "Clean Monday" day. It is a meze, though, which you can enjoy anytime in the year as long as you accompany it with a chilled glass of ouzo!:-)) I've said before that there are a few variations of "taramokeftedes" and last year I had posted another one. This one today, though, is one of my favourites

Tomato rice pilaf with squids

Lent period started yesterday and for the next few weeks I will try to present you some of the most delicious and interesting fasting recipes we have in Greece. You don't need to be a Greek or religious to follow this type of dishes. If you are vegetarian or vegan or even just somebody who likes to eat something different than meat all the time then here you'll discover some delicious ideas to enjoy with your family and friends. I start with a traditional recipe to enjoy squids in a different way. A rather common and popular way of cooking squids in Greece but in this version there is a novelty. To make your life even easier, canned (in tomato sauce) squids are used and believe me nobody would be able to tell because they compare very favourably to the fresh or frozen squids- their taste is nice and they are tender in texture. In this recipe we use a variety of rice (of Greek origin) called "Nychaki", as it is broadly known. It is a white long-grain variety and it is ideal for  plain rice and pilafs but also can be used in some kind of stuffings. I don't expect you to find the same variety in your country but if you can then it is worth trying it out. Otherwise choose a variety that it is appropriate for such kind of recipes

Is "Clean Monday" again! - Why not fasting while feasting!?!?

The Carnival period finished in Greece yesterday. Today we are back to "Sarakosti", the 40-day fasting period until the Holy Week before Easter.

Pasta with ground beef, lentils and yoghurt sauce

Inspired, in a way, from the recipe of "Chickpeas with ground beef" this is another delicious way to use dried pulses with a whole new approach. An unusual combination of ingredients which in the end offers such a hearty and tasty meal

Fresh tuna fillets in wine sauce with white beans

We are not big fish-lovers at home but this was a nice alternative to the classic ways of cooking beans and fresh tuna. Delicious combination and very nutritious as well. Enjoy along with a nice glass of red wine

Velvety celery soup with mushrooms and white pepper

The Winter is still around and this year arrived stronger and took us by surprise... So, the best season for more hearty soups at the table to warm us up! The white pepper in this recipe makes the difference so use freshly ground