Quince (Kydoni in Greek), is known from ancient years and its cultivation is said to have preceded that of the apple culture.
Greek Traditions
This Sweet and Savoury Pork Tenderloin with Quince, Prunes and Chestnuts is a flavour-packed dish that combines succulent pork tenderloin with the rich, fruity sweetness of quinces and the earthy goodness of chestnuts.
Kalikantzari, which are malevolent goblins, in Greek and Cypriot folklore tradition, get out of the depth of earth during the twelve days of Christmas.
This classic Orange flavoured Vassilopita cake pairs well with an orange or Lemon Buttercream.
There are many ways to make this cake, so you can learn all about the tradition behind the cake and another recipe in my last year’s post.
Samousades is the Spartan version of baklavas and is made in a similar way we make “Tsipopita” in Cyprus, the only difference is that they are rolled into a thicker roll and whereas Tsipopita is always made with almonds, in samousades you can also add walnuts, pistachio etc, and more spices.
Tyropita (pr. tee- row -pee-ta) (τυρóπιτα), from tyri (cheese) + pita = pie is a Greek pastry made with different cheese fillings.
Zalatina, as it is called in Cyprus, or pichti in Greece, is a traditional delicacy, served as an appetizer, originally made from the head and trotters of the pig, which create a gel when it sets.
Spartiatika Loukanika are the famous Spartan Sausages, which are flavoured with orange and spices.
I have tried nearly all type of Greek and Cypriot sausages and not that I don’t like them all but these ones with orange flavour are my favourite.
These Bitter Chocolate spiced carob cookies were made with bitter chocolate, carob syrup and ginger. They have a chocolatey taste due to the chocolate but also due to the carob syrup.
Bombari is a Cypriot traditional recipe which resembles like sausage but it is made with ground pork and rice and is actually a cooked meal.