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Greek Feta: Why and How to Buy It
Continuing on with last week's theme, this Sunday marks the Cheesefare (Forgiveness Sunday). This Sunday reminds us of our need for God’s forgiveness and guides our hearts, minds, and spiritual efforts on returning to Him in repentance. This upcoming Monday marks the true first day of the Lenten season. As we say goodbye to cheese, and dairy in general, I wanted to briefly touch on a topic which has interested me. Is Greek feta superior to the American made brands, if so, why? Here at Nick's, we are fortunate enough to carry many specialty items which are typically not found at...
Meatfare Sunday: A Guide for a Fast-Friendly Lent
With the Lenten season nearly upon us, this Sunday (Judgement Sunday) is the Meatfare Sunday in the Orthodox Church, meaning it is the last day to eat meat before the Great Fast. This Sunday's service is designed to fill us with salutary fear, sorrow for our sins, and to stress the importance of good works, especially works of mercy. It is important to think of fasting not as an inconvenience, but rather as a challenge and mission to better ourselves as devout Orthodox Christians. While I certainly am not qualified to give an entire lesson on the reason and meaning...
The Perfect Pastitsio: A Historical Background and Recipe Guide
With the Lenten period fast approaching (March 18-May 4), there is a limited amount of time remaining to indulge in one of, in my opinion, the best meals in Mediterranean cuisine. Pastitsio, rooted in the heart of Greece, presents itself as a symphony of flavors and textures, each element crafted to evoke a sense of hearty comfort. Sometimes known simply as the Greek version of lasagna, Pastitsio brings an entirely cheesier, creamy taste. In this week's blog, I will include a brief history of the influences which have shaped the modern Pastitsio that we know and love. In addition, I will include an...
Sipping Traditions: Greek Coffee, Frappes, and the Unique Charms They Bring
Coffee lovers rejoice, for the world of coffee offers a spectrum of flavors and brewing techniques to suit every palate. Two standout contenders in the world of distinctive coffee experiences are Greek coffee and Greek frappes. Luckily for you, we have four different Greek coffee brands available, SHOP HERE! In this blog post, we'll explore the differences and benefits that set these Hellenic delights apart from the regular cup of coffee. Greek Coffee: A Timeless Tradition Brewing Technique: Greek coffee, or "ellinikos kafés," is brewed using finely ground coffee beans, water, and sugar (optional) in a small pot called a...
Embracing the Mediterranean Lifestyle: A Culinary Journey to Health and Longevity
The Mediterranean diet has garnered widespread attention for its delicious and nutritious approach to eating. Rooted in the traditional dietary patterns of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, this lifestyle is more than just a diet; it's a celebration of fresh, wholesome foods and a commitment to overall well-being. In this blog post, we'll explore the key principles of the Mediterranean diet, its health benefits, and how you can incorporate this flavorful way of eating into your daily life. Key Principles of the Mediterranean Diet: Abundance of Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: At the heart of the Mediterranean diet are vibrant and...