Do You Speak Greek?

You can learn a lot about the Greeks by living in Astoria for a few years. Indeed, there's much more to these Mediterranean peoples than just Gyros, bad techno and seemingly unmanageable body hair. For example, did you know that Greeks are masterful confectioners? No shit, beyond the ubiquitous Baklavah exists a myriad of delectable desserts with a heavy focus on nuts, fruits and natural sweeteners. Personal favorites include loukoumades, galaktoboureko, and the Frappé.

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Loukoumades are basically Greek zeppoles, only far more light and textured than their Italian counter-parts. Instead of being covered with powdered sugar, loukoumades are doused with a warm honey sauce and dusted with sweet cinnamon.

Galaktoboureko is a wild semolina custard ensconced in flaky phyllo dough. It's warm, gushing slice of sweet comfort -- I haven't had anything else quite like in any of my culinary escapades.

The Frappé is an interesting concoction that is reminiscent of both a Starbucks Frappachino and a cappuccino proper. They are made from instant coffee, but don't let that dissuade you; this piquant caffeinated jolt is a real treat.

© 2009 c. c. villani @ "mission: insatiable" - http://missioninsatiable.com