Category Archives: Culture

Greek Food For Sharing

I’m super excited to introduce my latest cookbook to you, Greek Food For Sharing; recipes that nourish the soul.

It’s filled with mouthwatering authentic Greek recipes that will tantalise the tastebuds. Take a journey through the pages of this beautiful book brought to life by evocative images that capture the beauty and sophistication of the Mediterranean and the unique flavours of Greece.

Think homemade filo pastry, Rozedes, Paximadia, Yemista, Moussaka and Pastitsio in both tradtional and vegan version for times of Lent, plus a vegan Mageritsa especially for Easter. My aromatic cinnamon rice is a family favourite, and I share with you the absolutely best Avgolemno soup, plus so much more!

Greek Food For Sharing continues the celebration and benefits of the Mediterranean Lifestyle. There is something for everyone including pescetarians, vegetarians, vegans, and of course those who enjoy the classic and delightful flavours of traditional Greek cuisine.

Get yours now!

Australian residents – signed copies of my book are available at these amazing stockists:-

Avenue Bookstore, Albert Park, VIC

Avid Reader, Queensland

Caras, Oakleigh, VIC

Dillon’s Bookshop, Norwood, SA

Dymocks Books, Rundle Mall, Adelaide

Dymocks Books, Glenelg, SA

Dymocks Books, Hyde Park, SA

Greek Bilingual Bookstore, NSW

Hill of Content, Melbourne, VIC

Mostly Books, Mitcham, SA

Mykos The Gift Collection, NSW

Norwood Garden Centre, SA

Once & Again Book Cafe, Plympton, SA

Omega Foods, Hindmarsh, SA

The Greek Providore, NSW

ALSO AVAILABLE AT THE LINKS BELOW

The softcover is available at Amazon Australia here.

The eBook on Amazon is available here.

The softcover is available on Amazon for those living in the US, UK, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Japan, and Canada. Place your orders here.

Beautiful Blue and White

Those who know me well also know that I have a passion for all things blue-and-white, and in my kitchen and living room especially you can see hues of this favourite colour combination, that makes me feel happy and inspired. This timeless colour palette evokes memories of the Aegean with its endless blue skies, and calm seas.

So it follows that when I brought Greek Life (family, culture, food) to life, the front cover would include this beautiful combination, in a truly authentic Hellenic theme. This timeless book inspires readers with the story of family, philosophy, beautiful photography, authentic family recipes and the principles that sit at the heart of the Mediterranean Diet.

Greek Life makes a beautiful addition to your collection, and a meaningful gift for your loved ones, and sits proudly in homes around the world. Now available as an eBook, a softcover and a hardcover. Have you got your copies yet?

The hardcover is in limited supply. You won’t want to miss out on securing copies of this high quality book. Need convincing? Read my reviews. Find a stockist nearest you or order direct from me at jeanie.pantahos@bigpond.com

So join me as I invite you to step inside my living room and share my passion for all things blue-and-white, all set to some passionate Greek music. This little video, of course, also features my book Greek Life.

Join the celebration!

Eugenia xx

Taking Greek Life to Canberra

Welcome to GL!

I’ve had a couple of wonderful days in our Capital City, Canberra. It’s the first time that I’ve visited this city, and the aerial view was quite impressive. The people are so friendly, and my taxi drivers were so informative and helpful.

Having been invited to share the story behind my book Greek Life, I was so happy to meet some truly wonderful people who came along to share in my story.

You may remember, that the last blog post was written at Melbourne airport whilst I was waiting for my connecting flight to Canberra. After boarding and settling back in the window seat, a lady named Therese sat at the aisle seat.

Introductions were made, and soon we started chatting and it was truly so lovely to meet this wonderful and worldly lady who was heading back to Canberra to visit her friend and her mum. After learning that I was presenting an author talk, Therese said she was hoping to bring her friend Donna to my event at the Hellenic Club. As you can imagine, I was so truly thrilled to see that both Therese and Donna came along to my talk, and that they went home with signed and personalized copies of Greek Life!

Upon arriving at the Aegean Room at the Hellenic Club, I was also surprised to see that there were people waiting to see me, to chat, and to secure signed copies of Greek Life before the event. A few people purchased one copy, only to come back a few minutes later to buy more.

The Hellenic Club at Woden, did a beautiful job spoiling guests with a delicious buffet of cheese, crackers, and platters of fruit prepared by the catering team, served with a choice of wines or tea and coffee. I also wanted to showcase some of the lovely chocolates made by the iconic South Australian chocolate makers, Haigh’s Chocolates, so guests also got to savour some delicious dark pastels.

After a wonderful introduction by Yiota, it was my turn to share the story of Greek Life, the story of my family, the philosophy, some personal photographs from our family archives as well as images of just some of the food found in Greek Life, based on the principles of the Mediterranean Diet/Lifestyle.

At the end of the presentation, people stayed back and shared with me what the book means to them. The feedback was sincere and inspiring, and I felt so happy to have made meaningful connections with those who came along. After a chat with Yiota, and meeting the President of the Hellenic Club, it was off to bed for me, but not before enjoying a sneaky night-cap (ok…a glass of wine)!

After a restful sleep, and some peppermint tea, I caught up with a family friend for a delicious and healthy brunch at 80/20 on Lonsdale Street. I managed to squeeze in some sight seeing, with my first stop being the National Library of Australia. I signed up to become a member so that I could request that my copy of Greek Life, that was gifted to the Library when first published, could be brought up so that I could have a photograph taken. It was such a beautiful and special moment in my journey so far.

Naturally, this auspicious occasion deserved a little personal celebration. The National Library has a lovely cafe and in the spirit of celebrating in style, I decided to order some sparkling wine (the sign did read ‘press for champagne’) and a serve of a coconut and raspberry cake; scraping off the rich cream cheese topping of course!

It was a little decadent, and I loved every minute of it. This private moment of stopping, acknowledging, and celebrating is just as important as the journey. You see it has taken much dedication, vision, strategy, commitment, and determination to make this happen. To back myself, to live a dream out loud, whilst also being a daughter, sister, wife, and mother to 3 amazing girls.

After my little celebration I continued taking in some of the main sights of Canberra, taking a lovely stroll to the National Portrait Gallery, which is an absolute must visit when in this city. The photo to the left is my own ‘self portrait’ titled ‘Rear Mirror’. A little bit of fun in the ladies; I hope you like it (insert wink)!

I admired the work of some amazing artists and in particular I liked the portrait of Carla Zampatti (Australian Fashion Icon), Paul Grabowski (Musician/Composer), Ronnie Tjampitijimpa (Indigenous Australian), and a tall striking portrait of a judge (the name escapes me). I meandered my way to the National Art Gallery and was captivated by the beautiful composition and shimmering colours of Monet’s Water Lillies, a must do if you’re in our capital city.

On the lower ground floor on the way back to the cloak room I got see some amazing indigenous art, before taking a taxi for a quick stop at the Kingston foreshore for a promenade whilst having a wrap-up phone call with Yiota before heading to the airport to take a direct flight home and be reunited with my family.

If you’re living in Canberra, and missed the talk, or if you did come along and would like more copies of Greek Life, then please visit Yiota Eleftheriou at the Hellenic Club at Woden.

There are limited copies of Greek Life in stock there, and that means you’ll save on the postage and handling costs. So now’s the time to secure your copies. It’s never too early to get your loved ones a timeless and beautiful gift for Christmas, or graduations, birthdays and more!

Thanks for joining the celebration that is Greek Life, and thank you for your continued support!

Eugenia xx

Greek Life and Boston, USA

Welcome to GL!

Last month, Greek Life was featured in an online newspaper in the City of Boston, Massachusetts. I was so happy to see the publication, and truly sometimes I simply feel amazed by the support that I’ve received to date.

For the lovely people in Boston and beyond, If you would like to join the celebration that is Greek Life, than please visit my website where you can find links to the softcover version of Greek Life that celebrates family, culture, and food.

Within its pages, you will find mouthwatering recipes for the food prepared when observing cultural traditions, delicious and nutritious Lenten food, seafood, meat, and celebration foods, interwoven with thought inspiring philosophy, and beautiful full colour photography that takes readers on an intimate journey through the Greek way of life.

Greek Life is like no other cookbook. It is filled with cultural traditions and explains the when, why, and how of observing the timeless and meaningful Greek traditions. Be transported by the story of family as it unfolds, and be inspired by the Mediterranean Diet/Lifestyle and the healthy way of eating that is respected the world over as the most desirable and beneficial way of eating and enjoying life.

The Meditteranean Diet, image property of Eugenia Pantahos. Copright. Not to be used under any circumstances.

Eating the Greek way!

The Mediterranean Diet is more than food, it is a lifestyle that encompasses socialising, working, incidental exercise through gardening and dancing, enjoying coffee, oh and a few glasses of wine, eating seasonally, having very little dairy, enjoying seafood, but having limited meat.

It is mostly a vegetarian and vegan way of life especially when observing times of Lent and fasting.

Of course there are times that are celebrated throughout the calendar year, and we all know what that looks like! A Greek Feast, is like no other. Tables set with the most colourful assortment of food usually dressed in olive oil, lemon juice and oregano (or other homegrown herb) , aromatically prepared and slow cooked meats, mouthwatering sweets, wine, the elixir of the gods, and lots of kefi!

So, what are you waiting for? Get your copies of Greek Life at Amazon now and join the celebration that is called Greek Life!

Eugenia xx

Taste of Greece Lunch in Sydney

LUNCH IN SYDNEY

I’m looking forward to seeing you in Sydney at the Tavernaki on Sunday 30th April at this Family Friendly Event.

Bring your family and friends and join in the discussion and celebration around my book Greek Life over delicious Greek food, great company, and inspiring conversation.

Book your tickets by either calling Eleni on mobile number 95594424 or email events@greekbilingualbookshop.com.au with your name, number of people attending, and any dietary requirements. A confirmation email will be sent to you.

Together we will enjoy a 3-course meal and glass of wine for a very reasonable cost of between $35 and $40 per person.

As you would expect from a Family Friendly Event, there is no extra charge for young children sharing with parents. Drinks of course are extra.

Hope to see you there! Eugenia xx

Greek Life Stockists

Support Those Who Support Me

What you need to know NOW about Greek Life

Greek Life – available from my amazing stockists nationally

Greek Life (family, culture, food) has been embraced by the community at large, but this wouldn’t have happened without the support of my AMAZING stockists.

Discovering the meaning behind Greek traditions and the food prepared at certain times of the year or throughout one’s life, is the gift that Greek Life has given to those for whom Greek culture means something. It is unique, inspiring, a keepsake, a reference book, a cookbook, and a book that sits proudly in homes around the world.

Need convincing? Read the heartfelt reviews from my customers.

Within Australia, the hardcover collectors edition is available from my amazing, supportive and encouraging stockists. Greek Life has enjoyed pride of place in these select business, and I’m proud that my book has been so well received by them, and by you, the readers who are enjoying the journey, and who have joined the celebration that is Greek Life.

Please support those who support me. Remember, buy local. It’s the new black!

CANBERRA

Dymocks Bookshop, Canberra Centre

NEW SOUTH WALES

Glee Books, Glebe
Greek Bilingual Bookshop, Dulwich Hill
Reader’s Companion Bookshop, Armidale

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Booked, North Adelaide Village
Dillons Bookshop, Norwood
Dymocks, Burnside Village
Dymocks, Glenelg
Dymocks, Rundle Mall
Foodland, Frewville
Foodland, Pasadena
Globe Importers, Magill
Mostly Books, Torrens Park
Omega Foods, Hindmarsh

VICTORIA

Avenue Bookstore, Albert Park
Avenue Bookstore, Elsternwick
Caras Greek Music, Lonsdale Street
Caras Greek Music, Oakleigh
Dymocks, Collins Street
Hill of Content, Bourke Street

I’ll have a copy of Greek Life with that!

Pick up a copy of Greek Life with your groceries!

You can find Greek Life sitting proudly at many high quality stockists in Australia including the award winning Frewville and Pasadena Foodland stores here in South Australia.

Greek Life – now available in store at Frewville and Pasadena Foodland stores.

For the second consecutive year these fine supermarkets have been recognised and awarded the much coveted title of International Retailer of the Year. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Nick Chapley and his team.

I’m proud to have my book Greek Life stocked at these iconic stores, and whether you’re buying Greek Life for yourself or as a gift, you will find them especially gift-wrapped to keep your copies safe when shopping.

Greek Life is a celebration of family, culture and food, and at the core are the principles of the highly regarded Mediterranean Diet, or as I like to call it, the Mediterranean Lifestyle. Unique and inspiring, Greek Life commences with the story of family and continues with thought inspiring philosophy, beautiful full colour photography, and authentic family recipes that are prepared when observing cultural traditions.

Greek Life is the perfect gift for Easter, so when you stock up on your chocolate Easter eggs, let the staff know that you’ll like Greek Life with that!

GL xx

Taste of Greece Dinner – Tuesday 20 September 2016

Taste of Greece Dinner – A contemplation of Life and Death

Taste of Greece Dinner – Eugenia Pantahos and Derrick McMannus

You’re invited to my next Taste of Greece dinner on Tuesday 20 September at 6.30pm for a 7pm start at the Greek on Halifax, Adelaide.

You won’t want to miss out on this inspiring discussion on a Contemplation of Life and Death with the highly acclaimed international speaker Derrick McMannus.

Limited Places – Bookings Essential – Tell Your Friends x

Adelaide – a

Adelaide – A vibrant cultural city with an amazing lifestlye!

Feeling the love from Visit Henley Beach who shared my recent article on our beautiful city! For those wanting to make the most of a visit to Adelaide or those living here wanting some new inspiration, be sure to have a read and go on an adventure as you explore my Adelaide x

Read my article here!

Adelaide - A vibrant cultural city with an amazing lifestlye! By Eugenia Pantahos

My Adelaide by Eugenia Pantahos

Pastelli

Sesame and Honey Sweets from Zakynthos

Recently I felt inspired to make home-made Pastelli, a specialty from the island of Zakynthos, from where my father’s family is from. I engaged my intuitive cooking skills and the science of cooking to come up with a recipe that is both golden in colour, and quite simply delicious.

The addition of a hint of vanilla sugar, and freshly grated orange zest makes these original health bars just that little more aromatic and enticing.

Having rolled the mixture quite thin and cutting it into little squares makes them perfect for popping into your mouth. I much prefer them this way rather than having to bite into this crunchy and chewy mixture.

I cut pieces of clear cellophane to carefully wrap each piece of Pastelli and then finish them off with lengths of pretty ribbon tied into bows, before placing these beautiful little confection treats into my favourite footed sweets bowl ready for serving.

This recipe has a little crunch, so care needs to be taken of one’s teeth….alternatively just simply pop one into your mouth and allow these little sesame seed bars to tantalize your taste buds.

Here’s my recipe made with love, and brought to you with love!

Pretty Pastelli all wrapped up!

INGREDIENTS

1 cup sesame seeds

1/2 cup honey

1/4 cup sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla sugar

1 teaspoon grated orange rind

1/2 cup almond slivers, toasted, for decoration

METHOD

Place the sesame seeds into a dry heavy based frying pan and toast gently.

In another saucepan heat the honey until it begins to bubble, add the orange rind, sugar, and vanilla sugar. Stir well over low heat until sugar is dissolved.

Transfer the toasted sesame seeds into the honey mixture and mix well.

Place baking paper onto a glass board or marble slab, or other smooth surface.

Working quickly, pour the mixture onto the baking paper, spread with a blunt knife, sprinkle with the toasted almond slivers, place another sheet of baking paper on top, and roll the mixture out thinly using a rolling pin.

Remove top layer of baking paper, and using a sharp knife proceed to cut the Pastelli into square or diamond shapes. Allow to cool completely.

Pastelli can be stored in airtight container but you’ll need to place a clean sheet of baking paper in between each layer, to prevent them from sticking together.

I like to wrap mine individually in cellophane and tie with a pretty ribbon.

Place the Pastelli into your favourite bowl to have available for your visitors to enjoy (that’s if your family can resits them) and serve with a glass of iced water and a Greek coffee!

EP xx