Greek cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and emphasis on shared dining experiences. Central to this culinary tradition is the concept of appetizers, or small plates, enjoyed before the main meal or as a complete meal in themselves. But what do the Greeks actually call these delectable bites? The answer is meze (μεζέ).
Understanding Meze: More Than Just Appetizers
Meze isn’t simply the Greek equivalent of appetizers. It represents a whole culture of eating and socializing. It’s about sharing food with friends and family, engaging in lively conversation, and savoring the moment. The word “meze” originates from the Persian word “mazeh,” meaning taste or snack. This hints at the historical influences that have shaped Greek gastronomy.
The experience of enjoying meze is deeply ingrained in Greek culture. You’ll often find them served in a mezedopolio (μεζεδοπωλείο), a taverna specializing in meze dishes, accompanied by ouzo, tsipouro, or wine. The atmosphere is usually relaxed and convivial, encouraging diners to linger and enjoy the company.
The Social Aspect of Meze
The act of sharing meze encourages a sense of community. Plates are passed around, and everyone helps themselves. This communal aspect of dining fosters conversation and strengthens bonds. Ordering a variety of meze allows everyone to sample different flavors and textures, making it a truly interactive and enjoyable culinary experience.
Meze is a symbol of Greek hospitality. Offering a selection of meze to guests is a way of showing warmth and generosity. It’s a gesture of welcoming and creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
Regional Variations in Meze
Just like Greek cuisine in general, meze varies significantly from region to region. Coastal areas often feature seafood-based meze, while inland regions might emphasize meat and vegetable dishes. These regional variations reflect the diverse ingredients and culinary traditions found throughout Greece.
For example, in the islands, you might find marinated octopus (htapodi xydato), grilled sardines (sardeles skaras), or fried calamari (kalamarakia tiganita). In contrast, mountainous regions might offer saganaki (fried cheese), loukaniko (sausage), or various pickled vegetables.
Popular Types of Meze: A Culinary Journey
The world of meze is vast and varied. Here are some of the most popular and beloved meze dishes you’ll find in Greece:
Dips: The Foundation of a Meze Spread
Dips are a cornerstone of any meze selection. They are typically served with warm pita bread or vegetables for dipping. Some of the most common and delicious dips include:
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Tzatziki (τζατζίκι): A refreshing yogurt-based dip with cucumber, garlic, and dill. It is a staple in Greek cuisine and a must-have for any meze platter. The cool and creamy texture perfectly complements the other flavors.
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Melitzanosalata (μελιτζανοσαλάτα): A smoky eggplant dip made with roasted eggplant, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. It has a rich, complex flavor that is both savory and slightly sweet.
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Taramosalata (ταραμοσαλάτα): A creamy dip made from salted and cured fish roe (usually carp or cod), bread crumbs, olive oil, lemon juice, and sometimes potatoes. Its distinct salty and briny flavor makes it a unique and memorable meze.
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Htipiti (χτυπητή): A spicy feta cheese dip made with roasted red peppers, olive oil, and sometimes a touch of chili flakes. Its creamy texture and bold flavors make it a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or vegetables.
Cheese: A Staple of Greek Cuisine
Cheese plays a significant role in Greek cuisine, and many types of cheese are served as meze.
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Feta (φέτα): The most famous Greek cheese, feta is a salty, crumbly cheese made from sheep’s milk or a mixture of sheep’s and goat’s milk. It’s often served simply with olive oil and oregano or used in salads and other dishes.
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Saganaki (σαγανάκι): Fried cheese, usually kefalotyri, kasseri, or graviera, is a popular meze. It’s often flambéed with ouzo and served with lemon juice. The crispy exterior and melted interior make it a truly indulgent treat.
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Halloumi (χαλούμι): A semi-hard, brined cheese that can be grilled or fried without melting. It has a distinctive rubbery texture and a salty flavor.
Seafood: A Taste of the Aegean
Given Greece’s extensive coastline, seafood is a prominent feature of meze, particularly in coastal regions and islands.
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Htapodi Xydato (χταπόδι ξυδάτο): Marinated octopus in vinegar, olive oil, and herbs. The octopus is usually grilled or boiled until tender and then marinated to enhance its flavor.
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Kalamarakia Tiganita (καλαμαράκια τηγανητά): Fried calamari, a classic Greek meze. The calamari is usually lightly coated in flour and then fried until golden brown and crispy.
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Gavros Marinatos (γαύρος μαρινάτος): Marinated anchovies in vinegar, olive oil, and garlic. These small fish are a flavorful and affordable meze option.
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Sardeles Skaras (σαρδέλες σχάρας): Grilled sardines, a simple yet delicious meze. The sardines are usually grilled whole and seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano.
Meat: Savory Bites to Share
While Greece is known for its vegetarian dishes, meat also features prominently in meze selections.
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Keftedakia (κεφτεδάκια): Fried meatballs, usually made with ground beef or lamb, bread crumbs, herbs, and spices. They are a popular and versatile meze option.
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Loukaniko (λουκάνικο): Greek sausage, often flavored with orange peel, fennel seeds, or other spices. It can be grilled, fried, or baked.
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Souvlaki (σουβλάκι): Small skewers of grilled meat, usually pork or chicken. Souvlaki is a popular street food in Greece and can also be served as a meze.
Vegetables: Fresh and Flavorful
Vegetables play an important role in Greek cuisine, and many vegetarian dishes are served as meze.
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Dolmades (ντολμάδες): Stuffed grape leaves with rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat. They are a classic Greek dish and are often served as a meze.
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Kolokithokeftedes (κολοκυθοκεφτέδες): Zucchini fritters, made with grated zucchini, feta cheese, herbs, and spices. They are a light and flavorful meze option.
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Gigantes Plaki (γίγαντες πλακί): Baked giant beans in tomato sauce, onions, and herbs. This hearty and flavorful dish is a popular vegetarian meze.
Pairing Meze with Drinks: The Perfect Combination
No meze experience is complete without the right drinks. The choice of beverage can significantly enhance the flavors of the meze and create a truly memorable culinary experience.
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Ouzo (ούζο): The quintessential Greek aperitif, ouzo is an anise-flavored spirit that is traditionally served with water and ice. The milky white liquid that forms when ouzo is mixed with water complements the salty and savory flavors of many meze dishes.
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Tsipouro (τσίπουρο): Another popular Greek spirit, tsipouro is a grape-based brandy that is similar to grappa or Italian pomace brandy. It can be served neat or with ice and is often flavored with anise.
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Wine (κρασί): Greek wines are increasingly gaining recognition for their quality and diversity. A crisp white wine, such as Assyrtiko or Savatiano, pairs well with seafood meze, while a light-bodied red wine, such as Agiorgitiko, complements meat dishes.
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Beer (μπύρα): Greek beer has also seen a rise in popularity, with several local breweries producing high-quality lagers and ales. A cold beer is a refreshing accompaniment to any meze spread.
In conclusion, meze is much more than just appetizers; it’s a celebration of Greek culture, hospitality, and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. From dips and cheeses to seafood and meat, the world of meze offers a diverse and flavorful culinary journey. So, the next time you find yourself in Greece, be sure to indulge in the experience of meze and discover the true taste of Greek hospitality.
What exactly is “meze” in Greek cuisine?
Meze (μεζέ) refers to a diverse collection of small, savory dishes that are served as appetizers or snacks in Greek cuisine. Think of them as the Greek equivalent of Spanish tapas or Italian antipasti. They are typically enjoyed alongside drinks like ouzo, tsipouro, or wine, and are meant to be shared amongst friends and family, encouraging conversation and a convivial atmosphere.
Meze can range from simple, readily available items like olives, feta cheese, and pickled vegetables, to more elaborate and prepared dishes like fried calamari, grilled octopus, and various dips like tzatziki and melitzanosalata (eggplant dip). The selection of meze often depends on the region, the season, and the occasion, showcasing the local flavors and culinary traditions of Greece.
Are there specific types of meze that are considered “classic” Greek appetizers?
Yes, several meze dishes are widely recognized and considered classic staples in Greek cuisine. These include items like tzatziki (yogurt and cucumber dip), htipiti (spicy feta cheese dip), dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), spanakopita (spinach pie), and keftedes (Greek meatballs). These are almost always present on a meze spread.
Other highly popular and classic meze options include grilled octopus, fried calamari, saganaki (fried cheese), and various types of olives and cheeses, especially feta. These dishes are frequently ordered in tavernas and restaurants throughout Greece and are considered essential components of the Greek culinary experience, representing the diverse and flavorful character of Greek appetizers.
How does the tradition of eating meze differ from eating a main course meal in Greece?
Eating meze is significantly different from a typical main course meal in Greece, primarily due to its social and leisurely nature. Meze is not just about the food; it’s about sharing and enjoying the company of others. The meal often unfolds slowly, with multiple courses of small dishes being served over a period of hours, accompanied by drinks and conversation.
In contrast, a main course meal is usually a more structured affair, with a single, larger dish being the focus. While sharing may still occur, the emphasis is typically on individual portions and a more focused dining experience. Meze prioritizes variety, casual interaction, and the pleasure of savoring different flavors, creating a relaxed and festive atmosphere unlike the more formal structure of a main course.
What kind of drinks typically accompany meze in Greece?
The drinks that accompany meze in Greece are carefully chosen to complement the flavors of the dishes and enhance the overall dining experience. Ouzo, a dry anise-flavored aperitif, is perhaps the most iconic drink associated with meze. Its distinctive licorice flavor pairs well with many seafood and vegetable-based meze.
Other popular choices include tsipouro, a strong distilled spirit similar to grappa, and various types of Greek wine, both red and white, depending on the specific meze being served. Beer is also a common option, particularly during the warmer months. The key is to select a beverage that cleanses the palate and allows the flavors of the meze to shine through.
Are there regional variations in the types of meze served across Greece?
Yes, Greece’s diverse geography and culinary traditions lead to significant regional variations in the types of meze served. Coastal regions, like the islands and areas along the Aegean and Ionian Seas, often feature seafood-centric meze, such as grilled octopus, fried calamari, and marinated anchovies.
In contrast, inland regions might emphasize meat-based meze, like sausages, grilled meats, and various types of cheeses and cured meats. Furthermore, each region boasts its own unique dips and spreads, incorporating local ingredients like specific types of olives, herbs, and vegetables. These variations reflect the distinct culinary heritage and available resources of each area.
What is the proper etiquette for enjoying meze in a traditional Greek setting?
The proper etiquette for enjoying meze in a traditional Greek setting emphasizes sharing, moderation, and savoring the experience. Meze is meant to be shared amongst everyone at the table, so it’s considered polite to take only a small portion of each dish initially, allowing others to sample it as well. Avoid taking the last piece of a dish without offering it around the table first.
Engaging in conversation, enjoying the company, and pacing yourself are also crucial aspects of the meze experience. The goal is not to rush through the meal but rather to savor each bite and enjoy the social interaction. Offer compliments to the host and be mindful of not overindulging in alcohol, as the focus is on the food and the camaraderie.
Can you suggest some popular meze dishes that are suitable for vegetarians?
Certainly! Greek meze offers a delightful array of vegetarian options. Classic choices include tzatziki (yogurt and cucumber dip), melitzanosalata (eggplant dip), htipiti (spicy feta cheese dip – though check if vegetarian rennet is used), and dolmades (stuffed grape leaves, ensure they are not made with meat). Spanakopita (spinach pie) and various types of olives, peppers, and pickled vegetables are also great choices.
Additionally, fasolia gigantes (giant baked beans), briam (roasted vegetables), and grilled halloumi or feta cheese are excellent vegetarian meze. These dishes showcase the fresh, vibrant flavors of Greek vegetables and herbs, providing a satisfying and diverse vegetarian meze experience.