Appetizers

Crispy Feta Pastry with Honey and Thyme How do I prevent the phyllo from tearing while wrapping the feta? Keep it covered with a clean, damp kitchen towel as you work. Phyllo dries out quickly when exposed to air, making it brittle and prone to breaking. When brushing with melted butter, be gentle and use just enough to moisten the dough without oversaturating it. If a sheet tears, you can usually patch it by layering another small piece of phyllo over the torn area. Because the pastry is wrapped and baked until crisp, minor imperfections won’t be noticeable in the … Read more

Greek Grape Leaves Stuffed with Herbed Rice How can I keep the leaves from falling apart during cooking? Make sure to roll them tightly but not too tight, as the rice will expand slightly. Always place them seam-side down in the pot to help them stay closed. Lining the pot with tomato slices and packing the rolls close together prevents them from moving during simmering. Covering them with parchment and a plate creates gentle pressure that holds them intact. Also, use high-quality grape leaves with no tears or holes, and blanch them first if they’re fresh to soften them for … Read more

Beetroot Terrine with Goat Cheese and Herb Spread Can I make beetroot terrine ahead of time? Beetroot terrine is an excellent make-ahead dish for entertaining. In fact, it benefits from chilling for several hours or overnight to allow the layers to firm up and the flavors to meld. After assembling the terrine, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 3 hours, though 8 to 12 hours is ideal. This resting time makes the terrine easier to slice and more cohesive. Prepare any garnishes, such as chopped walnuts or fresh thyme, just before serving. Because of … Read more