A vacation in Greece is associated with many new culinary experiences - and this starts with the appetizer: Greek meze combines a variety of Mediterranean culinary traditions and stands for good conversation, versatile food, and the communal sharing of the meal.
What is Meze?
Greek meze simply makes you want more! It's like an introduction to further culinary delights, lively exchange of ideas in a convivial setting, and cheerful sounds at a large table. But what distinguishes it from other typical dishes of Central European cuisine?
Definition
The term Meze (alternative spelling: Mezze) originally comes from the Middle East and is usually translated as "taste", "appetizer", or "snack". Meze, therefore, is a small portioned dish that often comes to the table as the first course.
Good to know: Although Mezedes (the plural of Meze) have more of an appetizer tradition, they sometimes also represent an independent meal.
Greek meze is characterized by variety.
Where to find Mezes
In many parts of the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East, Mezedes are popular and are sometimes known by slightly different names. These areas include the former countries of the Ottoman Empire, such as Greece, Iran, Bulgaria, or Turkey. There, Mezedes are often enjoyed in connection with the respective local drinks. These include Greek wine and Ouzo, Lebanese Arak, or green tea in Arab countries.
In general, there is an extraordinary variety of Meze preparations everywhere. There are slight differences in the popularity of the ingredients and spices used, which, for example, tend to be more spicy in Bulgaria.
Spanish tapas can be seen as Western European relatives of Greek Mezedes in a certain way. Similarities also exist with Italian antipasti, which, however, have a stronger "appetizer character" than Greek Mezedes.
Meze plates and their variety
For those who are less concerned with culinary definitions, Mezedes could be briefly described as follows: delicious variety in small bites! From cold to warm preparations with fish, meat, or completely vegetarian, Greek meze comes in a wealth of variations.
Hearty classics like dried meat or meatballs are popular with meat lovers, while vegetable fritters, olives with herbs, or regional cheeses particularly appeal to the vegetarian palate. Small salads, bread, and oriental or spicy dips are also characteristic components of a rich Meze meal. The ingredients that are particularly popular in a region are sometimes also determined by the proximity to the sea or local agriculture.
The selection of flavors is almost inexhaustible! Access is allowed, and the variety on your plate is expressly desired. Because: Several Mezedes usually end up on the table together.
Meze culture: Culinary delight in Greece
In Greece, Mezedes are simply part of it. They are considered an indispensable part of the local food culture. Satisfying immediate hunger is often secondary; the focus is more on the communal experience. Whether in the company of family, friends, or new acquaintances - the shared meal in a convivial setting connects.
In Greece, meze and main courses are often served simultaneously. A colorful selection of Mezedes is spread across the dining table and passed around as desired. This way, everyone can help themselves to the various bites, toast together with Ouzo or Retsina, and engage in evening-long conversations. The culinary tradition surrounding Greek meze often lasts for hours - sometimes well into the night. In addition, the appetizing Mezedes are also very popular as welcome small snacks during the day.
Good to know: Mezedopoleia are Greek restaurants that specialize in preparing Meze.
Greek Meze Recipes to Discover
Naturally, Greek Meze tastes especially aromatic when enjoyed in the Mediterranean ambiance of Greece. However, with the right recipe, you can easily bring the Greek vacation feeling into your own four walls.
Tzatziki
Greek yogurt dip with cucumber and garlic is quickly prepared and indispensable for a Greek evening with friends. Of course, Tzatziki is not only suitable as a spicy side dish for other Mezedes; the refreshing dip goes excellently with Greek pita bread, meat, fish, or vegetables. Tzatziki has also made a flavorful name for itself as a classic among dips in our part of the world. If you'd like to vary it a bit, you can refine your Tzatziki with some olive oil, a splash of lemon juice, or alternatively with dill.
Important: For a special creaminess and a more intense taste, it is highly recommended to use Greek yogurt!
Fava
Fava is similar to Oriental hummus and is another classic of Greek cuisine. It is a puree made from cooked yellow split peas, often refined with capers, garlic, fried onions, and olive oil. This light version of Greek Meze can be served excellently with toasted white bread or Greek sesame rings.
Tip: Yellow split peas can sometimes be difficult to find in. Alternatively, you can use yellow peeled peas.
Greek Meze: Recommendations from MANI
Perfect for balmy summer evenings in good company: The Greek Meze plate with vegetables and various dips. The heart of the cold appetizer plate consists of fresh bell peppers, cucumber pieces, radishes, and other seasonal vegetables. As a side dish, hummus made from red beets and gremolata is suitable. Olives, capers, and fresh pita bread complete the Meze plate and round off the authentic Greek flair.
Greek Meze in the form of zucchini fritters with yogurt dip is also quickly prepared and very tasty. Crispy on the outside and still wonderfully juicy on the inside, the vegetable patties shine on a vegetarian plate as well as a side dish for meat-containing Mezedes. A dip with garlic and olive oil optimally rounds off the taste of this healthy meal.
A Greek vacation between relaxation and culinary delights: At the organic-certified guesthouse MANI SONNENLINK, you can enjoy the Mediterranean sun amidst green olive groves. The guests' physical well-being is, of course, also comprehensively taken care of – including Greek Mezedes made from high-quality MANI products.
