Ep 11. Sharing Abundance: The Cuisine of Greece

In episode 11 of The Everyday Gourmet: The Joy of Mediterranean Cooking, host Chef Bill Briwa explores the vibrant cuisine of Greece and the concept of sharing abundance. Briwa delves into the rich history and cultural significance of Greek cuisine, emphasizing the importance of communal dining and the symbolism behind certain foods.

The episode kicks off with a classic Greek appetizer: tzatziki sauce. Briwa demonstrates how to make this creamy, tangy dip using simple ingredients like yogurt, cucumber, and garlic. He explains that tzatziki is traditionally served alongside bread or pita, and is a staple at any Greek gathering.

Next up, Briwa dives into the main course with a traditional lamb gyro. He notes that lamb is a popular meat in Greece, and is often cooked on a rotating spit. While most home cooks don't have access to such a contraption, Briwa gives tips on how to achieve a similar flavor profile using a slow cooker. He also demonstrates how to assemble the gyro with all the classic fixings, like tomato, onion, and tzatziki sauce.

For a side dish, Briwa makes spanakopita, a spinach and feta pastry that's perfect for sharing. He explains that this dish is often served at family gatherings and special occasions, and symbolizes the idea of coming together and sharing abundance. Briwa provides step-by-step instructions on how to make the pastry dough from scratch, as well as how to prepare the filling using fresh spinach and crumbled feta cheese.

To round out the meal, Briwa makes a simple Greek salad with ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and briny kalamata olives. He emphasizes the importance of using high-quality ingredients in this dish, as each flavor component is meant to shine on its own.

Throughout the episode, Briwa shares insights into the history and culture of Greek cuisine, touching on topics like the influence of Ottoman and Byzantine empires, and the role of foreign ingredients like tomatoes and potatoes. He also emphasizes the importance of communal dining in Greek culture, and gives tips on how to create a welcoming, hospitable atmosphere in your own home.

By the end of the episode, viewers will have a newfound appreciation for the vibrant, flavorful cuisine of Greece, and the concept of sharing abundance through food. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a complete novice, Briwa's easy-to-follow recipes and expert tips are sure to inspire your next dinner party.