MasalaMinds Jan - Feb 2014

Jan- Feb 2014

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OPA!! Greece » An ancient trail through medieval Greek castles » Dining in a Greek village » The Magic of Mezedes » Eat, Dance & Celebrate - Greek Style » “Kali orexi” (bon appétit) with Gyros » 5 must-try Greek specialties

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MasalaMinds.com • Jan - Feb 2014

CONTENTS OPA!! Greece

09 12 14 20 24 26

5 must-try Greek specialties

05

Trending Now

30

Kitchen Corner

34

MasalaMinds Online Community

36

Upcoming Events

Dining in a Greek village An ancient trail through medieval Greek castles The Magic of Mezedes Eat, Dance & Celebrate - Greek Style “Kali orexi” (bon appétit) with Gyros

Quinoa, Cake pops, Iced-Fruits and more

Featuring Kalamata Olives and authentic Greek Spanakopita and Baklava recipes

User Reviews about food products, eat-outs, and travel destinations

Details about Food, Travel & Culture festivals from across the globe

Jan - Feb 2014 • MasalaMinds.com

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Global palates are expanding, and international food sections are growing in every market all over the world. Whether you’re near or far from home, your favorite comfort foods are always nearby.

Globalization has also generated interest in exploring other locations and cultures – understanding the local mindset and shopping like a native, be it for food or other products and services. Rooted in passion for food, culture, and travel, MasalaMinds explores these topics and gives you the tools to help you plan your perfect getaway or find your new favorite flavors.

Our sister site MasalaMinds.com can help you work through the multitude of issues that you face when you move or travel to a new place, region, or culture by connecting you with feedback from folks who have paved the path for your journey. MasalaMinds.com also collects advice from the locals in your new/ current location. Think of MasalaMinds as a substitute for the network of family and friends that you left behind when you moved or traveled to a new place. Wherever you go, we will be there for you.

As part of the MasalaMinds community, you’ll also be able to give back the knowledge you gain by sharing your own experiences via reviews, comments, or pictures. Love a product or business? Let us know so that others may benefit from your input and make more accurate buying decisions. After all, when you discover items that take you down memory lane or open your mind to new possibilities, it’s only fair that you share your find with others! You are forging a channel as you set down roots in a new place.

MasalaMinds.com provides a place to lead others in your exploration. Or, you can simply start wandering the trails others have blazed before you to find great restaurants, grocery items, and travel destinations.

Add your voice to our community at MasalaMinds.com.

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Editorial Disclaimer: All material published are the copyright of MasalaMinds. Views expressed in the magazine are of the contributors and does not necessarily bind the Editor or the Publisher of the magazine. MasalaMinds does not hold responsibility for the outcome of decision or action based on the information contained in the publication.

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MasalaMinds.com • Jan - Feb 2014

Trending Now

food Quinoa

K

nown as the “Ancient grain” Quinoa with its nutty taste and

immense

nutritional

value is gaining popularity, especially

for gluten free diets. Rich in proteins

and carbohydrates, it is versatile and matches well with most ingredients.

Use it boiled or toasted, seasoned or just plain; it is a perfect swap for rice or pasta in most recipes. Add a coat of

quinoa flour to chicken fingers for extra nutrition and crunch, or toss some

cooked quinoa with spring onion stalks, red pepper, cucumber and lemon juice to make a tangy salad. Now all you need to do is learn how to pronounce it! (keen-wa)

Cake pops

P

assion for cake has taken a new

turn with the arrival of cake pops, delicious candy-coated

balls of crumbled cake on a stick.

These lollipop shaped bite-sized treats are a perfect alternative to slices of

cake for any special occasion. Make

a 3D mini teddy bear pop for your little one’s birthday, or display pastel

pops on a beautiful stand for a bridal

shower. Sweets on a stick for a perfect celebration!

Jan - Feb 2014 • MasalaMinds.com

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Trending Now

food Fruit infused Ice-Cubes

I

t’s simple; yet stunning. Sweet and brightly colored fruits, veggies or herbs are frozen inside small cubes

of ice. These cubes are then added to

enhance the flavor of drinks. When planning for a party, do not forget to try out this simple trick. Fruit infused ice

cubes not only look beautiful in water, they also impart a refreshing burst of flavor to it. These are a delicious way

to sweeten your water without artificial sugar!

Pizza for dessert?

Y

ou heard it right! You can up the fun factor at any party with

these sweet treats that adults

and kids will both love. Tender pie or cookie crust is laden with delicious

toppings to provide an impressive ending note to your meal.

For a

healthier twist, select the season’s finest fruit - strawberries, blueberries,

peaches or kiwi as your toppings. Or indulge yourself with rich ones like

Crème fraîche, buttery mascarpone or melted dark chocolate. A sweet twist to the world’s most loved pie!

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MasalaMinds.com • Jan - Feb 2014

Trending Now

travel Luxury European river cruises

A

n

increasing

number

of

travelers are now experiencing

through

Europe on luxurious cruises its

numerous

waterways.

Sailing rivers like the Danube, Seine or Moselle you can enjoy Europe’s scenic countryside and rich cultural heritage

in a relaxed yet exciting way. Enjoy the lush vineyards and medieval castles in

the Moselle and Rhône river cruise or take a tour through the sidewalks of Europe’s ancient cities and sight the

legendary Lorelei rock in the Rhine river cruise. Bon voyage!

Film Tourism

F

ilm tourism is hot news and a driving factor in destination

choice today! Films projects

evoke an interest among travelers to

destinations

where

they

can

view famous production sites and landmarks. To take advantage of this

growing craze, travel companies and hotels

incorporate

these

locations

in their packages to lure film buffs.

Tourists also sometimes get to witness

filming taking place during these tours.

The movie Long Walk to Freedom has inspired many travelers to Robben Island, South Africa to witness the majestic prison set created for the movie.

Jan - Feb 2014 • MasalaMinds.com

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OPA!! Greece

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MasalaMinds.com • Jan - Feb 2014

OPA!! Greece

5 must-try Greek specialties

G

reece’s Red Gold - Crocus Sativus The dried stigma of Crocus Sativus flower is Saffron, the most expensive spice in the world. Though cultivated globally,

Greece’s Crete Island owns the credit of introducing it to the world. A few threads are enough to flavor dishes and impart

a reddish-orange hue. Make yourself the traditional Kakavia (Greek fisherman’s soup) by adding snapper and whiting fish fillets, tomato puree, onion, garlic, saffron threads, dill and white wine to water and simmering it for 15 minutes.

Greek fisherman’s soup

Jan - Feb 2014 • MasalaMinds.com

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OPA!! Greece

Say Cheese!

Greek cheeses are special. Greeks believe that God Apollo’s son gifted them the art of cheese making. They can be

enjoyed as mezedes, appetizers, used in main dishes, or

simply as snacks. Feta, Kasseri, and Kefalotyri are a few to name. For a unique snack bake seasoned tomato shell with

olives, basil, and yogurt and add all ingredients of a Greek salad with crumpled feta cheese. A delicious Gemista dish for your dinner tonight!

Gemista

Nothing fishy - Avgotaraho (Fish roe) Avgotaraho is salted and preserved roe (eggs) of the flat-head mullet; harvested from the shallow lagoons of Messolonghi in Greece. After being cured, they are dipped in natural bees wax for protective coating and a long shelf life. Slice it thinly and put it on crostini to create a savory appetizer or grate it finely and add to spaghetti with some lemon zest, minced garlic, fresh parsley to create a briny entree. Either way, you are going to love this salty sea goodness.

Avgotaraho pasta 10

MasalaMinds.com • Jan - Feb 2014

OPA!! Greece

The Greek ambrosia - Yogurt Greeks provide tough competition when it comes to yogurt.

The purest form of Greek yogurt is made from ewe’s milk with a small amount of goat’s milk to enhance its flavor.

Thick, creamy and ultra-luxurious, this yogurt has double the protein of regular yogurt and tastes almost like cream cheese with a tang! Add toasted walnuts, your choice of fruits and a drizzle of honey to a cup of plain Greek yogurt to create

Yogurt Drizzled with Honey & Walnuts

an invigorating breakfast or a guilt-free dessert!

In love with Florina Peppers Try some peppers from the Greek town of Florina. You will feel like Zeus struck you with his bolt and changed your taste buds! Just by itself, as a meze, an addition to salads, or as a spread, the taste of this pepper has a new depth with every

Hot Stuffed Peppers

dish. Whip some feta, olive oil, parsley, yogurt, oregano, egg yolks, and lemon zest, and stuff it inside the pepper. Broil it until the cheese turns golden brown. Your meze pairing with anise flavored ouzo is ready.

Jan - Feb 2014 • MasalaMinds.com

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OPA!! Greece

G

Dining in a Greek village reece is famous for its beautiful islands. Several villages dot the countryside and some on the coastline have exotic beaches. Tourists from across the globe visit Greece, especially during summer months to sunbathe on golden sandy beaches and splash around in the blue Mediterranean Sea.

Ouzo Souvlaki

Sip at the Local Café

The Greek villages are known for their Kafeneion (Café or coffeehouse) and local Greeks are very selective about their coffee. They prefer a coffee house based on the type of people who gather there. Women and other family members sit at the tables; outside.

The indoors traditionally belongs to men, where they gossip over their coffee and play cards or “tabli” for hours. The Greeks never drink without eating something. Hence a non-Greek visitor will be surprised to see men munching a few olives, traditional “Feta” cheese or even tomato slices as they sip their coffee.

Dine and Wine at an Ouzeri

Greeks consume the local alcoholic drink, Ouzo with great fervor. One can easily find a traditional Ouzeri (where Ouzo is served), built on the similar line as Kafeneion. However an Ouzeri also serves a full meal from its selection of local appetizers known as ‘Mezedes’ in Greek. The famous Greek fast food Souvlaki is consumed with or without the local bread, ‘Pita’. Souvlaki dish is made

up of grilled pieces of pork and served with fried potatoes and sauce. A few Ouzeris serve chicken or lamb pieces in place of pork to suit the taste buds of the tourists. A little culinary innovation!

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MasalaMinds.com • Jan - Feb 2014

OPA!! Greece

Traditional Greek Tavern Enjoy Home made Cuisine at Tavern

Greeks are very particular about their food and the way it is cooked. A traditional Tavern is generally frequented by families and

foreign tourists who want to relish spitikó (homemade) Greek cuisine. Well, there is a reason behind its popularity. Tavern is a

family business and the whole family is involved in it, right from cooking to managing the customers. Hence one gets the feeling

of eating at a Greek home. A seasoned traveler can make out the difference between a Tavern and other restaurants because of the “Spitiko” flavor (as the locals call it) that emanates from the cuisine. Though a Tavern offers fewer choices in the menu, it certainly offers a feeling of eating home cooked food. Not an experience to miss!

Try Grilled Meat

A psistaria is a type of Greek restaurant that specializes in grilled meat. Grilled beef, lamb, pork and chicken are some of the

delicacies that await the taste buds of travelers. Psarotaverna is a heaven for those who love seafood! Deep fried squid rings (Kalamari) will surprise the taste buds of people new to Greek cuisine.

Greece has many culinary surprises in store for foreign tourists

who are travelling for first time. Though the menu has a large number of meat and fish recipes; and less vegetarian dishes, there are enough options for everyone to enjoy.

Fried Kalamari Rings

Jan - Feb 2014 • MasalaMinds.com

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OPA!! Greece

An ancient trail through medieval Greek castles

A

Acropolis of Athens

cro (high) and polis (city) meaning ‘city on the edge’ in Greek, is a popular monument. Though there are many acropolises

in Greece, Acropolis of Athens is the most popular. Temple of Athena Nike, Erecthion, and Parthenon are the popular

temples of Acropolis. Tomb of Cecrops, a half serpent man who is believed to be the first Athenian king is also seen here.

Erecthion

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Temple of Athena

MasalaMinds.com • Jan - Feb 2014

Parthenon

OPA!! Greece

Angelokastro Castle

Angelokastro meaning ‘Castle of Angels’ is situated on a steep cliff in Corfu island; overlooking the sea. The city of Corfu lies in the South East, and the castle was built to shield people from pirate attacks. An ancient church for Archangel Michael is also seen in the castle.

Fortress

Jan - Feb 2014 • MasalaMinds.com

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OPA!! Greece

Castle of the Knights

This castle in the Rhodes Island is one of the best examples of military architecture. Also known as ‘Palace of the Grand Master’, it was built during the 7th century for defensive purposes. Walking along the narrow alleys, cobbled streets, and massive walls, one gets transported to medieval times.

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MasalaMinds.com • Jan - Feb 2014

OPA!! Greece

Castle of Methoni

This is one of the most picturesque castles of Greece, built on the water with spectacular views. Legend says that a knight named John Koutroulis fell in love with a married woman, and waited for 14 years to marry her. Walls of the castle that stood witness to this ceremony still stand intact, with the story inscribed on the castle gates.

Jan - Feb 2014 • MasalaMinds.com

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OPA!! Greece

Castle City of Mystras

Located 8 kilometers from Sparta is the city of Mystras. The city which was once a cultural, military and spiritual centre, stands today; as a deserted town with rich archaeological details.

The Monastery of Pantanassa is a preserved monument of Mystras. Walking through the ruins of the castle, towers, and churches is an unforgettable experience.

Monastery of Pantanassa

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MasalaMinds.com • Jan - Feb 2014

OPA!! Greece

Palamidi Castle

The castle is located in Nafplio, one of the most picturesque cities of Greece. The top of the castle can be reached by climbing a stone staircase of 999 steps. One can enjoy the breathtaking views of Nafplio through the windows of the castle.

Jan - Feb 2014 • MasalaMinds.com

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OPA!! Greece

The Magic of Mezedes

A

trip to Greece is never complete unless you have tried the vast assortment of Mezedes. These are snacks served as

‘hors d’oeuvre’ (first course) to compliment a drink, and also as a nibble during a social gathering. Mezedes may be hot (cooked) or cold (un-cooked). Here are a few popular ones.

Melitzanosalata: Baked eggplants are mashed and

Taramosalata: If you like seafood, then this one is to

taste of this dip transports one to another world. Which

bread pulp, lemon juice, grated onion and olive oil with

added to lemon juice, olive oil, and pepper. The tangy

ingredient does the trick? Ask your taste buds! This meze tastes well with meat and pita bread.

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MasalaMinds.com • Jan - Feb 2014

die for! A classic Greek spread made by adding soaked

mashed tarama (carp eggs). Spread it on bread slices for a delicious experience.

OPA!! Greece Tzatziki: A magic concoction made of yogurt, garlic, cucumber and lemon juice. Add a dash of fresh dill or mint for that authentic Greek taste. You can successfully pair it with pita bread, gyros, fish, grilled meats, falafel, souvlaki, and crackers. Whip up some tzatziki dip and you‘ll thank us later!

Jan - Feb 2014 • MasalaMinds.com

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OPA!! Greece

Keftedes: Savory little balls that are made with meat including fish, crab, chicken, or pork; mixed with mint and onion, and deep fried in oil. These crispy balls are best enjoyed with anise flavored Ouzo.

Kolokithopita: We all know zucchini is healthy, but how many of you love it? Greeks have elevated this humble vegetable to a new level by creating delicious fritters. Shredded zucchini is added with other ingredients, coated in bread crumbs and baked until golden brown. Try these and it will become your favorite too!

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MasalaMinds.com • Jan - Feb 2014

OPA!! Greece

Dolmathakia klimatofila: Dolama (stuffed) klimatofila (grape leaves) as the name translates, is made with ground lamb or beef and rice filling; wrapped with grape leaves. A meatless version of this dish (Dolmathakia yialantzi) is prepared with rice and vegetables during the lent season.

Saganaki Cheese: A heavenly treat for all cheese lovers - Fried cheese flambĂŠed with Greek brandy in a traditional Saganaki pan and served with a wedge of lemon. Kefalograevria and Kefalotyri cheeses are some popular options.

Jan - Feb 2014 • MasalaMinds.com

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OPA!! Greece

Ash Monday celebration

Eat, Dance & Celebrate - Greek style Endless miles of aquamarine beaches, ancient castles and fortresses transporting

one to medieval times, serenity of the temples, and lush hillside flowers…Greece is a country with remarkable cultural pursuits.

A

land of gods, and giants, Greece is a religious country, and this reflects in their festivals and traditions. Greeks begin the year with the Festival of Agios Vassilis (Greek name for Santa Claus). They bake sweet breads called ‘Vassilopita’ with a coin hidden

inside, believing the coin will bring good luck to the person who finds it.

Would you like to have a

troublesome goblin as your guest? Visit Greece on the

6th of January during the

feast of Agia Theofania or Fota.

Greeks believe that the goblins

that

appeared during Christmas were banished to the

underworld on this day. Kallikantzaros or goblins are evil characters that live in the underworld and visit

earth for twelve days during Christmas (Dec 25th to Jan 5th). During these days people hang a colander on their doorstep for protection. It is believed that

if a goblin comes to their home, it will start counting

holes in the colander, and forget troubling them (and

Colander at the doorstep

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it doesn’t know to count after 3). Interesting!

MasalaMinds.com • Jan - Feb 2014

Hobgoblin

OPA!! Greece

Carnival parade

Apokries (carnival) is celebrated in honor of Dionysus, the god of wine and feast. It takes place forty days

before Easter and ends with Kathari Deftera (Ash Monday). People dress up for masquerade, crowd the streets during the night and play pranks with one

another. A time for fun, frolic and laughter! The lent period starts on Ash Monday, and lasts for 7 weeks.

During these days, people fast by avoiding meat, oil and dairy products. The lent period ends on Easter Sunday, and Greeks break their fast with a meat soup

Masquerade

called Mageiritsa.

Easter is the most important festival in Greece.

During Megalo Savato (Saturday night before Easter), the priest holds a lighted torch and shares

the holy light with the nearby worshippers. They,

in turn light their neighbor’s candle. This process is repeated until the entire courtyard is lighted up with candles. A breathtaking spectacle!

If you love to eat, dance and celebrate, visit Greece

when the country is in a festive spirit. These festivals

offer a chance for merry making and an escape from the monotony of everyday life.

Jan - Feb 2014 • MasalaMinds.com

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OPA!! Greece

“Kali orexi”

(bon appétit) with Gyros

T

aking a stroll through streets of Greece, you are sure to bump into a stall selling gyros. A Greek version of fast food, gyros are made with meat and vegetables and served with ’Ttzatziki’, a yogurt based dip.

With a few ingredients, the Greeks have created gyros

that are sure to make make everyone happy. A variety of meats including pork, lamb, beef or chicken is roasted on a vertical spit in low heat, and then cut into

crisp slices. These slices along with crunchy vegetables

like lettuce, tomatoes and onions are stuffed in rich and fluffy pita bread which is wrapped and rolled into

a sandwich like creation. Once you bite into it, the only thing you will wonder is how soon is too soon to have another. A reason why tourists leave Greece weighing more than what they were when they arrived!

Gyros are popular worldwide, with countries having their own version and names for this Greek legacy.

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MasalaMinds.com • Jan - Feb 2014

OPA!! Greece

Australia

A surprise for Greeks! Australian gyros contain two times more filling than the Greek gyros, and include hummus, bulgur, and tabouli along with other Greek ingredients. This is usually served with tzatziki, chilli or barbecue sauce.

Middle East

In Middle Eastern countries, ‘Shawarma’ similar to gyros is made with turkey, chicken, or lamb cut in small chunks, and not in slices as the authentic Greek gyros.

The filling is served in pita or laffa bread along with tahini sauce.

Jan - Feb 2014 • MasalaMinds.com

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OPA!! Greece

Turkey

Known as ‘Doner Kebab’ in Turkey, it is made with slices of marinated meat (excluding pork) stuffed in Turkish bread, or served on the top of diced flat bread with sauces.

Iran

Iranians call it ‘Kabab Torki’ meaning Turkish kabab and prepare it with lamb or beef. Sandwich preparation varies where the meat sliced from the spit is grilled with chopped green pepper and onion. It is not served with sauce.

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MasalaMinds.com • Jan - Feb 2014

OPA!! Greece

UK

In UK, the term ‘Kebab’ is more common than gyros, and is prepared with regional variances. It is not filled in bread, and is sold loose along with garlic or chili sauce replacing the traditional Greek tzatziki.

US

The American version of gyros is made in cone shaped bread filled with slices of beef or lamb cut off from a rotating spit. Thinly sliced meat pieces offer incredible flavors, salty, crispy, moist and tender; creating an appetizing culinary treat.

Jan - Feb 2014 • MasalaMinds.com

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Kitchen Corner

Kalamata Olives - discover the taste; enjoy the experience‌ Greek legends say that the olive tree was created by goddess Athena to win a competition with Poseidon. Olives have always been

an important aspect of Greek culture, traditions, and cuisine. The Greeks used to crown honorable people with a chaplet made

with olive leaves. What makes this almond shaped purplish Greek olive different from the other green and black ones? Kalamata

olives are grown in the Kalamata region of Greece. Its rich; sweet flavor, almond shape, and purple shade distinguishes it from the black and green varieties. Unlike other olives that can be harvested while still green, kalamata olives are harvested only after they ripen up. It is then slit and preserved in water, brine (water-salt solution), dry cured in salt, or in lye.

Health benefits

Packed with nutritional benefits, olives make a healthy

addition to your food. They help to reduce cholesterol levels,

strengthen bones, control stomach ulcer, and serve as an anti-inflammatory agent in reducing pain.

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MasalaMinds.com • Jan - Feb 2014

Kitchen Corner

A little culinary exploration

Olives are a wonderful Greek treat makes a perfect snack by itself . Eat one, and you can feel

its soft and smooth skin melt in your mouth.

Add it in pasta dishes, salads or wraps to give a salty touch to your dish. Mash the olives

into a tapenade (purĂŠed olives added with

Olive baked chicken breast

other ingredients) and use it as a spread for flat breads and crackers. Kalamata olives have an appetizing flavor when cooked. Add slices

of onion, meyer lemon, feta cheese, tomatoes,

and kalamata olive pits to chicken breast and bake it until brown. This flavorsome dish of

tangy lemon, salty cheese, and sweet tomatoes,

complimented by Greek olives is sure to win the hearts of your family and friends!

Olive oil for a beautiful skin

This Greek fruit can be a part of your beauty

regimen too! The vitamin E in kalamata olives

moisturizes

the skin, prevents

wrinkles, and reduces scars. Coat your finger nails with olive oil to strengthen them, mix

olive oil with almond oil and use it to remove make up, or mix a few drops of olive oil with

lemon and apply it to lighten dark spots and gain a glowing complexion. Olive oil soap revitalizes sunburned skin.

Some quick Facts Availability: All year round How to buy: Ripe ones in deep

purple or black without green shade.

How to store: Once the can is

opened; transfer the olives to an air tight glass jar and use them within two weeks.

Jan - Feb 2014 • MasalaMinds.com

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Kitchen Corner

T

raditional Greek pastry dough, phyllo comprises of layers of delicate paper-thin sheets, which are basted with butter or oil and stacked together. A filling is usually placed between the sheets and then it is baked to form a flaky, crispy crust. It is best known for use in traditional Greek dishes like Spanakopita and Baklava.

Spanakopita Preparation Time: 1 hour 30 minutes Serves: 8 Ingredients • 1 package frozen phyllo sheets, or at least 20 sheets, • ¼ cup olive oil

• 1 bunch spinach, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped • 3 stems, scallions, chopped

• 2 cups feta cheese, crumbled • 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 2 eggs, lightly beaten • ¼ teaspoon. nutmeg

• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation • Preheat the oven to 350° F.Unroll the phyllo dough and keep it covered with a damp towel to prevent it from drying out.

• Heat 1 tbsp. oil in a pan. Add the scallions and cook for a

minute until softened. Now, add the spinach and dill. Cook over low heat until the spinach wilts.

• Squeeze out all the excess water from this mixture and cool.

Add cheeses, egg, nutmeg, salt and pepper.

• Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in prepared baking pan, and

brush lightly with olive oil. Lay another sheet on top and brush again with oil, and repeat process with ten more sheets.

• Spread spinach and cheese mixture evenly on top of these

sheets and fold any overhanging dough over the filling.

Layer the remaining sheets of phyllo over the filling, brushing each time with olive oil.

• Pre-cut the top layer into squares according to the desired serving size.

• Bake 40 to 45 minutes, or until the crust is golden, let stand 15 minutes, and serve warm.

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MasalaMinds.com • Jan - Feb 2014

Kitchen Corner

Baklava Preparation time: 2 hours Serves: 8 Ingredients

Preparation

• 1 package frozen phyllo sheets, or at least 20 sheets,

• Preheat the oven to 325°.

• 1 cup almonds, finely chopped • 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

• Bring 1-cup sugar and water to a boil. Add the honey, lemon

juice and simmer for 5 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the syrup cool.

• 1/3 cup honey

• Mix the chopped nuts, cinnamon, vanilla & 1 teaspoon

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• Butter a 12-by-10 inch baking pan. Layer 8-10 sheets of

• 1 cup plus 1 teaspoon granulated sugar • 1 cup water

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice • 1 teaspoon vanilla

sugar together.

phyllo in the pan, brushing each sheet with butter. Spread

the filling evenly over the sheets. Top it off with 10 more sheets of buttered phyllo. Fold in any excess pastry hanging over the side of the pan. Brush the top with butter and cut into large diamond shapes.

• Bake for about an hour until pastry is golden brown.

• Remove from oven and immediately pour the syrup over it. Let it cool to room temperature before serving. Do not refrigerate.

Jan - Feb 2014 • MasalaMinds.com

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MasalaMinds Online Community

REVIEWS

ON PRODUCTS & PLACES @MasalaMinds.com

Thanks to all our members below for contributing with their reviews!

New users can chime in by joining MasalaMinds.com.

Saint John Hotel, Mykonos Myconian Dream! | Culture: Greek This is definitely one of the best hotels I have ever stayed in. The rooms start at Jr Suites and I will say it is a bit pricey for Greece. The service is excellent and highly personalized. Having said that...worth every penny! The infinity pool relaxing and the beach unspoiled, the restaurant at the pool serves up modern Greek fare, also quick bites that are perfect for vacationers. The club-sandwich is a must. It is not centrally located but you can easily get to town, there is a motor coach that everyone uses if the urge to party should

By Kat Von B

arise.This hotel does cater to affluent Greeks so just know that there will be almost no other nationalities.

My favorite in Mykonos.

Tesco Soft Ricotta Cheese Versatile Tesco soft Ricotta Cheese | Culture: Italian Ricotta cheese is made from cow’s milk and can be used in both sweet and savoury cooking. It has a fresh and mild flavor that doesn’t overpower any dish that it is used in.

The best discovery for me was when I learned that ricotta cheese can be used in Indian cooking (as it is suitable for vegetarians) and from that day onwards it has had a very special place in my Indian kitchen too! I can now make khoya, peda, barfi (all traditional sweets) without compromising on authentic Indian

By Jagruti Raj

taste. So now there is no need to despair if you don’t live in an area that doesn’t stock mawa or khoya, instead just visit your local supermarket and grab a pot of ricotta cheese!

President Emmental Grated Cheese Excellent For Cooking | Culture: Italian One is often confused which cheese to use for cooking. Yes mozzarella is great for pizzas...but what about baked dishes, or cheese used in recipes where deep frying is needed? Some cheeses melt and make a mess of the oil and spoil your snack. I am often asked which cheese I use for making my cheese pakoras etc... I use grated emmental cheese because its an all rounder cheese with a good flavor also it can be used for deep fried dishes without worrying it might spread, melt and make a mess of the oil.

By: Nitu Chugani

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MasalaMinds.com • Jan - Feb 2014

Masalaminds Online Community

Patak’s Hot Curry Concentrated Paste Lifesavers on the shelf | Culture: Indian Synonymous with quality, Patak’s brand has withstood the test of time. Hailing from UK, it has now found a comfy spot on the American grocery store shelves. The Hot Curry Paste is a staple in my fridge. Compared to dry curry powders, which tend to lose their flavor with time, the paste is well preserved in oil which seals in the flavor and would still taste the same after months of refrigeration. The usage of the paste is only limited by one’s imagination: dry curries, gravies, pickles (yes, the paste is a wonderful medium for pickling Adelina

veggies), sauces, even curried soups and bouillon! I highly recommend the paste to the modern busy woman who wants to save time, cut corners, and still make enjoyable meals for her family and friends!

Loutro Taverna, Chania My Favorite Restaurant in Crete! | Culture: Greek This restaurant is the one place you should eat if you are in or near Chania. It is a bit hard to find on the old ethnic road between Chania and Rethymnon. Located in a valley it has charm as well as delicious food.

The food I love and the house specialties are Kreatopita (meat pie), Spring Salad, and Kaftero Tyri (hot cheese), those are my favorites but everything is good! Try the organic wines and make sure you have a glass of Tsikoudia to finish it all off!

By: Kat Von B

Zaka Indian Restaurant,Cape Town Family Style | Culture: Indian In this unique eatery meals are in all awe as the tradition, authenticity and flavor bursts in the atmosphere.

I experienced real passion that goes into any meal prepared. Each meal is prepared in a Tandoor oven adding to the flavor and authenticity. Ensuring the tender off the bone meat complimenting the fresh ingredients used. My favorite meal was the tandoori chicken with rice and hot vegetables something really different. The staff were all friendly and the fact that it is managed by the owner gives you a warm welcome.

By: Nafeesa

From the starters to main course to side dishes, desserts and refreshments all Indian authentic. Service was okay, as any normal eatery, definitely Wow. .

McCormick Hot Mexican-Style Chili Powder Taco Hard and Soft Like you ONLY READ about in Books! | Culture: Hispanic Now Tacos have finally found the perfect mate for your spicy palate. Add this to the ground meat along with the seasonings already at hand. Prepare everything exactly as you would to make a Taco but let me tell you... This is going to take everything to a whole new level of Wicked Yummy. Try it tonight or the next Taco moment. You will probably never go back to just a simple Taco again. I know for sure I haven’t. This is in my cabinet and I can’t ever make Tacos without it. Just saying it’s that GOOD. Enjoy!

By : ramram11

Jan - Feb 2014 • MasalaMinds.com

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Events Looking for a foodie getaway or cultural escape? Look no further than our calendar of upcoming culinary events to make your plans for January and February.

Ati-Atihan

Date: January 10th to 19th, 2014 Location: Aklan, Philippines Eat, drink and dance in the most colorful festival of Philippines. A nine day exhibition of dance and costume where celebrators take part with painted faces, feathered head dresses, and animal bones creating a spectacular visual feast.

Patras Carnival

Date: January 17th to March 3rd, 2014 Location: Georgiou Square, Patras, Greece This is one of the biggest events in Europe with 160 years of history. The festival includes a series of events including parades, balls, and treasure hunts. Mouth watering dishes of smoked and grilled meat are available on ‘Smoky Thursday’ to entertain foodies.

Thaipusam

Date: January 17th, 2014 Location: Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Experience the pilgrimage to Batu Caves in pursuit of spirituality. This is a celebration of Lord Murugan’s victory over demon Soorapadman. A self sacrificing journey where devotees fast, pierce their skin, and undertake a barefooted trek in return for their answered prayers.

Farmhouse Breakfast Week

Date: January 26th to 1st February, 2014 Location: Lancashire, UK The event promotes the benefits of eating a healthy breakfast. Get to know about quick and easy breakfast ideas, about whole grain foods, oats, and rapeseed oil benefits.

Activities include breakfast competitions, cooking demos, tasting sessions and more.

Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival Date: February 13th, 2014 Location: Pingxi, Taiwan

Buy a lantern, write your wishes, and let it fly towards the sky. Pingxi is the only place in Taiwan, where sky lanterns are permitted to be released. It is breath taking to view almost 2,00,000 hot air balloons light up the night sky.

South Beach Wine & Food Festival Date: February 20th to 23rd, 2014 Location: Florida, US

A four day star-studded event featuring the world’s best wines, paired with delicious food from local restaurants, and culinary personalities. A chance for foodies to try signature dishes from the finest restaurants of Florida.

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MasalaMinds.com • Jan - Feb 2014

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