What to eat in Crete, the typical dishes of the tradition not to be missed in Greece and in the town of Chania. Read the post and book your next vacation in Greece.
What to eat in Crete, a short guide to typical dishes not to be missed during a trip to the enchanting Greek island. A trip to Crete it is a dip in its blue waters, an immersion in its millenary history and above all the discovery of its irresistible culinary traditions. Yes, because the kitchen of Crete is a real pleasure.
The typical dishes are prepared with local ingredients, simple and natural but with a unique taste. The flavors are enhanced byGreek olive oil and the scents are those of the vegetables and spices that grow on the island, generously kissed by the sun. And the best part of Cretan cuisine is this one simplicity. No refined or elaborate dishes, just the unforgettable flavors of the island and the freshness of its ingredients. What to eat in Crete? Today I will tell you what are the typical dishes of the splendid Greek island, which made me dream during my last trip to Crete.
Typical dishes of Crete
Greek salad
One of the best known and loved dishes of Greek cuisine, particularly in Crete. Cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, black olives, oregano and feta or myzithra. To be eaten either as an appetizer or side dish (perhaps sharing it with other diners) or as a single dish for a quick lunch.
Moussaka
The moussaka is somewhat reminiscent of a cross between a lasagna and aubergine parmigiana. It is a famous Greek dish and it is made of eggplant, meat and bechamel, in layers.
Cheeses
All cheese lovers in Crete will be enchanted. In addition to the famous “feta”, a cheese made with sheep and goat milk widely used in Greece, here we find other delicious types of cheese. Myzithra, a soft cheese often used instead of feta in the Cretan version of the Greek salad, and Graviera, similar to Swiss “cheese with holes”.
Ajinosalata
A typical dish of Crete is the sea urchin salad, a must try.
Grilled Fish
Being an island, fish in Crete is certainly one of the main dishes. Sea bream, octopus, mullet, swordfish, are usually grilled and flavored with spices such as thyme, sage, oregano or basil, then sprinkled with the tasty olive oil.
Souvlaki (skewers)
The skewers, made of lamb, beef or kid, are very popular in Crete. They are served both on the plate and as street food in a pita sandwich. They are cheap and very tasty, so much loved by both locals and tourists.
Cretan bread
Paximadi is the classic Cretan bread, made of rusks, softened with water to be eaten as an accompaniment, such as a bruschetta. It will be seasoned with oil, oregano, tomato and cheese.
Honey
Crete is also famous for its honey, of great quality thanks to the many plants found on the island.
Loukoumades
Sweet pancakes with Cretan honey.
Yogurt
Greece is famous for its yogurt. With a creamy and compact consistency, it is sold "by weight" and often seasoned with honey, as a dessert. Try it after a meal or as a mid-afternoon snack.
Wine
What's better than a good wine to accompany a dinner based on typical Cretan dishes?
We told you what to eat in Crete, and we couldn't help but make you dream with what to drink on the island. Cretan wines are mostly fruity and aromatic. There are different types and you will rarely find them bottled, because they are house wines. Their alcohol content is around 14 degrees and the color is golden, therefore neither white nor red.
Raki
Raki is the typical Cretan grappa, a wine distillate that is offered after meals, as an aperitif, or as a welcome drink. Despite its alcohol content, it is quite light on the palate, so be careful not to make too many toasts with friends. And if it is true that you also know a place from its cuisine, the one in Crete promises to be a wonderful journey.
