As with any world cuisine, fromItaliantoChinese, the quality of Greek food hinges largely on authenticity.
There’s a big distinction between authentic andAmericanized.
As Peter Tsaglis, executive chef of Miami’sJoia Beach, explains, a key part in authenticity is simplicity.
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With that ethos in mind, these are seven authentic dishes to order at a Greek restaurant.
“This is also a dish that has been around for thousands of years in Greek culture.”
His favorite preparation is grilled over charcoal, with not a lot of bells and whistles needed.
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That’s according to Vogiatzis, who likes to order Greek-style roasted lamb with lemon potatoes.
Another lamb fan is Vasiliki Vourliotaki, executive chef atKellari Tavernain New York City.
And you’ve got the option to’t go wrong with any of it.
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Vourliotaki recommends any number of simply prepared grilled fish options to try.
“The most common way to try it is with extra virgin olive oil, lemon and garlic.”
But when prepared the right way, it can be a real winner.
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“The word gyro comes from the ancient Greek for ‘turn.’
It refers to the way that the meat is pressed on a rotating spit.”
Gerry Sizemore, chef de cuisine ofHavenin Tampa, is another endorser of the gyro.
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“you’re able to’t go wrong ordering a gyro,” he says.
When it’s time for dessert, it turns out thatbaklava isn’t exactly the most authentic.
“For dessert, I recommend trying galaktoboureko,” says Tsaglis, another endorser of the confection.
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Baklava, eat your heart out.
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