Category Archives: Greek Food

Newsflash! Greek Life and Greek Food For Sharing

There’s exciting news that I’m just bursting to share with you…..insert drum rolll….and that is the much awaited stock of my cookbooks titled Greek Life and also Greek Food For Sharing have just hit the press.

Greek Life a book about family, culture and food

You’ve sent me messages, emailed me, visited bookshops asking when the books will be available….and I’m here to share that Greek Life and Greek Food For Sharing will be arriving within a month or so.

I have a growing waiting list of people who have already reserved their copies, so if you’re wanting to add these beautiful and meaningful books, composed and infused with love to your library, then let me know so that I can put your name on the list.

In the meantime for those outside of Australia, the updated soft cover edition of Greek Life and Greek Food For Sharing, plus my other books, can be found at my author page.

Greek Food For Sharing - Recipes that Nourish the Soul

Join the celebration of Greek culture!
Need more information? Visit my website.

Feel free to share this email with your family, friends and colleagues or better still ask them to sign up here and they will receive their own S/S edition of Easy Entertaining; a free mini cookbook from me!

With love,

Eugenia x

The Mediterranean Diet is a Lifestyle

A GUEST BLOGPOST

DR ROSANNE FREAK-POLI, BSc, BHSc, PhD

Senior Researcher, Epidemiologist, Heart Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow

Last week I was enjoying a coffee at my old local coffee shop when I struck up a conversation with Eugenia, the owner of this blog. I am a life-course epidemiologist, meaning that I am interested in factors across the life course that impact health, well-being, and longevity.

These factors may not be obvious, and much of my work is exploring new potential risk factors for chronic disease. For example, I am currently funded by the National Heart Foundation of Australia to assess whether social connections with other people can prevent heart disease.

Eugenia and I soon realised our common interests in well-being and longevity. However, Eugenia taught me something very important that had escaped my attention. Eugenia was explaining the premise of her books “Greek Life” and “Greek Food For Sharing” which describe the benefits and lifestyle factors of the Mediterranean diet.

I instantly made the common mistake of thinking of the Mediterranean diet as simply the nutritional benefits provided to our bodies, but what Eugenia explained is that the Mediterranean diet is more than this, it is a way of life.

Eugenia explained that the secrets behind this way of living consist of both food and lifestyle factors. These include choosing the freshest and seasonal fruits and vegetables, consuming small quantities of nuts, dried fruits and natural yoghurt, generous amounts of olive oil, enjoying a glass or two of wine with meals and not as stand-alone events. The diet also encompasses multiple servings each week of legumes, two to three servings of seafood a week, and very limited dairy, red meat, and poultry. An abundance of herbs that are used in both cooking and for medicinal purposes, such as herbal teas.Aside from the food, the Mediterranean Lifestyle encompasses having fun, being socially connected with family and friends, laughter, and incidental exercise by way of walking, gardening or dancing. Enjoying a cup of Greek coffee that’s prepared on the stovetop using pulverised coffee, means that this brew is packed with polyphenols and antioxidants, and these contribute to health and longevity.

Greeks are known to take a nap after lunch and this helps the body to rest, restore and reset. Another important lifestyle factor is the fasting rituals that include over 200 days a year where no dairy, meat or poultry is consumed, and this caloric deficit also contributes to health and wellbeing.

I’ve now learnt that these are the reasons why in some parts of Greece people enjoy longevity and good health well into their 90’s and to beyond 100. The island of Ikaria is one such place, and its been named as the island where people forget to die.

Instantly it all made sense. As researchers conducting data analysis we can only assess the variables that are available in the database. If someone is interested in nutritional content, dietary patterns, and food behaviours then they may ask a lot of specific questions about these factors. Some interests are not collected at all, and because of this we would have very little information of the ‘way of life’ that the Mediterranean diet encompasses. An example of this is reflected through much of the lifestyle choices, for example, the importance of social connections that attribute to wellbeing and longevity.

Why does it matter? The public health message that we receive is that the Mediterranean diet is the most beneficial for health. However, if someone decides to make a lifestyle change, then the Mediterranean diet definition only discusses the dietary pattern and nutritional content. Potentially the other elements as discussed above are not provided and therefore the person wanting to make the lifestyle change is not fully informed.

I can see that Eugenia’s books would be of benefit to people wanting to make a positive lifestyle change, not just for health but also for their well-being.

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.

Learn the secrets of the Mediterranean Lifestyle

You may wonder what all the fuss is around the Mediterranean Diet. I’d like to share the secrets behind this way of living, and why in some parts of Greece, people enjoy longevity and good health well into their 90’s and beyond 100.

Firstly, it’s not simply a diet. More than that, it’s a lifestyle. It’s about choosing the freshest in season fruits and vegetables, enjoying a small quantities of nuts and dried fruits, generous amounts of olive oil, a glass or two of wine, multiple servings each week of legumes, two to three servings of seafood a week, and very limited dairy, red meat, and poultry.

Correctly observed, the Mediterranean Lifestyle also incorporates times of fasting. As a rule each Wednesday and Friday, plus forty days before Easter, the first 15 days of August, 40 days before Christmas, and some other dates in between. That adds up to over 200 days of the year where no dairy, meat and poultry is consumed, and on some of these days oil and wine are also not consumed.

Aside from the food, the Mediterranean Lifestyle encompasses having fun, being socially connected, laughter, dancing, gentle exercise by way of walking, gardening or dancing (did I say fun?), sipping a Greek coffee served in a demitasse cup, enjoying a couple of glasses of wine, and basking in the company of family and friends.

These lifestyle choices are at the core of my book award-winning book Greek Life. If you love Greek food, and admire Greek culture, be sure to order your copies from Amazon. Click on this link to order my books.

Greek Life belongs in the homes of families for whom Greek culture means something.

I’m Eugenia Pantahos, and I thank you for keeping the celebration alive.

xox

Mouthwatering Greek Shortbread aka Kourambiedes

Welcome to Greek Lifestyle!

This is your special invitation to visit my YouTube channel where you can watch me preparing some amazing Hellenic recipes.

The latest instalment on my channel is the famous Greek Shortbread known as Kourambiedes. For those who already have my award-winning cookbook, Greek Life, you can find this aromatic and mouthwatering recipe on page 122. Impress your family and friends with this melt-in-your mouth, delicate Greek shortbread!

Open this link to watch a short demonstration.

I value your time and my time and that means all my videos are around 2 minutes or less and set to music, allowing viewers to experience an uplifting and inspiring demonstration.

You see, I like my videos short, sharp and shiny, making them entertaining and easy to watch whilst protecting your time and mine. Let me know your thoughts, or any suggestions you may have.

Greek Life is now in limited supply….so if you haven’t added this timeless celebration of Greek culture and food to your collection, now is the time to do so. You’ll find an entire section on lent and fasting, Easter traditions, and delicious recipes that represent the Mediterranean Diet. Order here !

Smiles,

Eugenia xx

Adelaide Dinner – The Idea of Love

ADELAIDE DINNER EVENT

Let’s explore the meaning of love, the ideas held by ancient philosophers, and what it means in our modern world. Come to join the discussion over a 3-course meal, glass of wine and tea/coffee. Bookings essential. Limited Places. Book now!

Greek Dolmades Recipe- Stuffed Grape Vine Leaves

Greek Dolmades Recipe – Stuffed Grape Vine Leaves

Anyone fortunate enough to sample a homemade Greek dolmades recipe, or as we sometimes affectionately call them, dolmadakia, only know too well the absolute delicious experience of savouring each mouthful of these delicate rice and herb stuffed grape vine leaves.

Usually served with a squeeze of lemon and a dollop of natural yoghurt, you can’t go past just one. The flavour is lively and zesty and these delightful little morsels literally dance on your tastebuds!

Here’s a little video I’ve put together on how to make Greek Dolmades, and if you like what you see, feel free to subscribe and be kept up to date. Enjoy!

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

Greek Dolmadakia Recipe – Stuffed Grape Vine Leaves

Spring is the best time to prepare dolmadakia, when vine leaves are young and fresh. I’ve been lucky to have access to homegrown and organic tender, young vine leaves, and once you’ve used the best, its difficult to use the preserved varieties.

So how to prepare this classic Hellenic dish? It’s very simple, a little time consuming, but its definitely worth it!

Here’s a little video of me preparing dolmadakia that you might enjoy!

Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil

1 large onion, finely chopped

3/4 cup long grain rice

1 cup hot water, from kettle

1/4 cup finely chopped parsley

1/4 cup finely chopped mint

salt and pepper, season to taste

30-50 vine leaves, depending on size

Method

Heat the olive oil in a medium sized saucepan and saute the onion until soft and transparent.

Add the rice, stir, and cook for a couple of minutes.

Add the herbs, and season with salt and pepper.

Continue stirring for a minute before adding the hot water.

Stir well, bring to the boil, reduce heat and cook for approximately 5 minutes.

Turn off the heat and place a lid on the pot.

To prepare the vine leaves you will need a large stainless steel bowl half filled with boiling water, and another stainless steel bowl filled with cold water. Place around 5 leaves at a time in the hot water first, and press down gently to ensure they are covered. As the leaves change colour which may take 3-5 minutes, remove the leaves gently and place into the cold water to stop the cooking process.

Take each leaf and drain over the edge of a colander that has a large dish beneath it to catch the drips of water. Repeat until all leaves have been prepared.

With the smooth side down, and the stem side towards you, place the vine leaf onto a large plate. Place a heaped teaspoon of the mixture horizontally onto the leaf, and fold in the end with stem, roll once again, and then fold in the sides, and then gently roll to form a nice little parcel.

Line the bottom of a saucepan with 3 layers of baking paper or a heatproof plate that fits snugly and place the dolmadakia on top fitting them in nice and tight. Continue rolling until all leaves are used up.

Drizzle with approximately 1/4 cup olive oil, gently pour over 3/4 cup hot water, and then finish with the juice from half a juicy lemon. Then top with an inverted plate to keep the dolmadakia from moving around in the pot. Place lid on pot and take to the stove top, bring to the boil, then reduce heat and cook for approximately 1 hour or until rice is cooked. You’ll need to have a little sneak peak. When ready, turn off the heat and leave the pot to sit until completely cool and all the liquid has been absorbed.

Dolmadakia usually taste better the next day, so if you can resist, when they have cooled put them onto a serving plate and place in the refrigerator. Enjoy with a dollop of Greek natural yoghurt, a bowl of kalamata olives, wedges of tomatoes, slices of cucumber, some continental bread, and wash down with a crisp white wine.

Kali Orexi!

Eugenia xx

Greek Life a Self-Published Success Story

Welcome to Greek Lifestyle!

A little while ago, I learned that my book Greek Life, a celebration of family, culture, and food, was to be shared as an example of what a self-published book could look like. with regard to design, layout, and content. A much respected book store owner who fell in love with Greek Life when she first saw it, was the guest speaker at this event and she had chosen my book as an exemplary example of a self-published book!

What you need to know NOW about Greek Life

A book about family, culture and food by Eugenia Pantahos

My friend Doris had called me excitedly to let me know that that my book Greek Life was to be discussed at this event. Naturally I jumped at the opportunity and eagerly accepted Doris’ invitation to join her, and when I arrived I found that Doris had reserved a place for me to sit next to her . The two of us were first time authors and we listened and learned about others who had gone before us on this unknown journey of writing and publishing.

You can only imagine my surprise that Greek Life was to be showcased by such a respected person, and of course, how could I not go along to listen to what she had to say.

I sat there in awe, watching her hold up my book, and talk about not only the design elements, but also about the way in which I wrote Greek Life, describing it as tenderly written. I know that my readers express the same experience when reading Greek Life, often being moved by the story of family and the anthologies surrounding the food.

This lady was so passionate about my book, and what was amazing is that with her expertise and years of experience she instantly recognised the ‘non-negotiable’ design elements that I had envisioned for my book.

It was a moment that I won’t forget, seeing my book being held up for all to see, and certain pages shown to the audience. Seeing this through the eyes of an audience member, but also as the author, was surreal and humbling. I felt quietly proud to have my book discussed so passionately.I was simply amazed that my book had been chosen for this event, and thank Charmaine from Mostly Books for her heartfelt and professional views.

Eugenia Pantahos is bringing her book Greek Life to Canberra. Join her as she shares her story. Signed copies of this limited edition book available on the night. Don't miss out!!!

Greek Life – a self publishing success story

When bringing Greek Life to life, my vision was to publish a book of the highest quality, one that created a celebration around Greek culture, and one that was supported by thought inspiring philosophy and beautiful photography. Choosing the final fonts and colour schemes, and the placement of images in a meaningful way, meant that Greek Life is now regarded as the foremost book on Greek culture. That’s something I’m truly proud of.

Join those around the world who have placed Greek Life at the heart of their homes. Learn about the essence of the Mediterranean Diet and Lifestyle that is celebrated through seasonal and delicious food both for times of celebration and for observing cultural events. Be moved by the story of family and migration, and harness your inner domestic god or goddess as you experience ‘real’ Greek food. Expand your thinking with thought inspiring philosophy, and take an intimate journey with me through the pages of Greek Life.

If you would like to watch this short 2 minute expose start listening from 19 minutes in 🙂

I hope you enjoy this little clip!

Eugenia xox