Experience the island of Crete in Greece

Tag: Mediterranean food

  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Crete

    Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Crete

    Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Crete

    Have you ever wanted to taste olive oil coming directly from the press? Have you ever wondered how many different olive varieties exist? And which ones are better for extra virgin olive oil production? The Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Crete is one of the highest quality extra virgin olive oils in the world, and Crete the most important island for the industry.

     

    History of Olive Oil

    The Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Crete is one of the highest quality extra virgin olive oils in the world, being Crete one of the most important producers.According to archaeologists, the true origins of the olive tree go back in time as long as 60,000 years. The oldest equipment for storing olive oil dates back to 3,500 BC. It was found on Crete which suggests that it is there where everything started.

    Olives have always been important for their nutritional value. In old times, both the oil and the wood served fuel, building material and more. The crushed olives remaining after the pressing were most likely food for the domestic animals.

    Iconic tree

    The Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Crete is one of the highest quality extra virgin olive oils in the world, being Crete one of the most important producers.Olive trees are such precious trees that they naturally turned into an icon. In Ancient Greece, it was common to make offerings of olives to the Gods. Also, a wreath of olive twigs was a present for athletes competing in the Olympic Games. 

    There is a widely spread religious tradition of respect and worship of olive trees. Olive oil is a key element in burial ceremonies, baptisms, harvest festivals.  In Greece, sailors sprinkle the oil on stormy seas and newborns still receive a new olive tree as a gift.

    Olive Oil in Greece

    The production of olive oil in Greece is currently based on small farms. There are 17 Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) regions, each producing olive oil with distinct characteristics. Greece holds the world’s highest annual consumption: About 32 pounds per year. Besides, Greece is the world’s largest exporter of Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

    The Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Crete is one of the highest quality extra virgin olive oils in the world, being Crete one of the most important producers. Olive Tree on CreteA superior quality and excellent organoleptic properties grant an unparalleled taste and aroma. These have further increased Greek exports thanks to the increasing importance of the Mediterranean diet. Consumers all over the world have learned value olive oil and the unique virtues of Greek olive oil.

    Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Crete

    Crete is the second national producer of EVOO with 30% of the national production. Endless fields of olive trees have naturally led to the registration of 9 PDO regions. Being Koroneiki the most predominant variety, while some other local varieties, such as Tsounati, Throumbalia, and Hondrolia. Each of them accounts for the distinct flavor of every region.

    This all-natural food is the single most important element of the world-famous Cretan diet. Extra virgin olive oil from Crete is abundant in monounsaturated fats, vitamins, antioxidants, and nutrients of exceptional value. Cretan olive oil is associated with longevity and overall health.

    The Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Crete is one of the highest quality extra virgin olive oils in the world, being Crete one of the most important producers. Olive Tree on CreteOlive oil is not just another ingredient of the island’s diet. It is probably one of the most important elements of the local culture. Cretans consume olive oil in any possible way. They pour it on toasted bread for a snack, but also fry, cook, roast, and to condiment breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The population also use it medicinal and cosmetic purposes, to soothe or moisturize both skin and hair.

    A perfect balance in terms of flavor, aroma, color, and acidity level give value to extra virgin olive oil. In fact, its delicate consistency makes it perfect for dressings as well as for cooking.

    Olive Oil Tourism

    The Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Crete is one of the highest quality extra virgin olive oils in the world, being Crete one of the most important producers. Olive Tree on CreteHigh-quality extra virgin olive oil is present in the kitchens of local hotels such as Karatarakis hotels & its restaurants. Especially the guests of the Olive Green Hotel are eager to learn more about Crete’s green gold as the hotel is named after it and its concept and policy is built on the protection & preservation of nature.

    It is possible to visit local producers to sample the varieties, but also to witness the process of production, from the harvest to the mill. If you are staying in one of our hotels, we will be happy to arrange a visit to one of these family factories producing one of the best Extra Virgin Olive Oils from Crete.

  • Traditional Greek Breakfast

    Traditional Greek Breakfast

    Simple Treats of the Traditional Greek Breakfast

    Many believe that Greek breakfast is nonexistent. In many cities, where modern life rhythms have prevailed, it is, in fact, usual for people to have just a coffee and (maybe) a koulouri. However, Greece has a rich tradition when it comes to breakfasts. Unfortunately, only a few hotels serve different versions of the Traditional Greek Breakfast, without falling into the temptation of the safer Continental version of the first meal of the day. This is the case for Legacy Gastro Suites, the 5* city hotel at the heart of Heraklion Crete.

    Greek Koulouri. (photo courtesy Gabi Ancarola). traditional Greek breakfast
    Greek Koulouri. (photo courtesy Gabi Ancarola).

    The Tradition of Breakfast in Greece

    Long ago, when life was mostly rural, breakfast used to include large quantities of animal fat. This provided the needed energy for the day’s labors. In many villages around Crete, for instance, it was easy to see servings of eggs with staka (similar to a clotted cream), rich pies and soups. 

    Ingredients that Make a Tradition

    Legacy Gastro Suites breakfast set

    Local Greek breakfast shall, first of all, use local, fresh products. From a nutritional point of view, it will be mostly rich in starch and proteins. According to traditional eating habits, a hearty breakfast would get workers through a day of hard work in the fields. 

    Today, this reflects in generous servings that also work well as a brunch. A small meal that can keep you full almost till it’s dinner time.

    Olives and paximadia (rusks), Graviera cheese and the well-known Greek yogurt with local thyme honey are classics. Usually going with a cup of Greek coffee or herbal mountain teas. However, the traditional Greek breakfast does not end there, different pies, both sweet and savory, also make it to the morning table.

    Baked Treats and Pita Pies

    Freshly baked products in general and pita pies, in particular, are also included in the traditional Greek breakfast. Greek pies have fans everywhere thanks to an endless choice of fillings. Simple to prepare (almost always in the oven, less often fried), Greek pies change in every corner of the country.

    Tradition normally wants seasonal vegetables as a filling, together with different cheese varieties. It possible to enjoy them filled with mushrooms, onions, feta cheese, and potatoes as well. Or even with even chicken, beef and ham. 

    On the sweet side, pita pies also differ according to the season. Apple, cherries, oranges, and nuts, or even sweet milk or chocolate.

    A special mention goes to bougatsa with delicious fillings and a crunchy dough that makes all the difference.

    Authentic Greek Yogurt

    Traditional Greek Breakfast: Yogurt, fruit and honey.
    Traditional Greek Breakfast: Yogurt, fruit, and honey.

    Rich in calcium and protein, Greek yogurt balances sumptuous taste and nutritious qualities. The dish offers plenty of health benefits which have gained international recognition. The rich texture and unique taste are mostly a consequence of the straining process.

    Topped up with fruit, either fresh or dried, but also nuts and honey, authentic Greek yogurt is one of the many dishes in a traditional Greek breakfast. Yet, it can also be a delicious standalone experience.

    Traditional Greek Breakfast from Crete

    Unique local products with a rich nutritional value transform the Cretan diet into the key to a healthy way of life. On the island, there are plenty of ingredients that make a fantastic breakfast. From olives and honey to wild greens, herbs, unique cheeses, sausages, and cold cuts.

    Bougatsa, another traditional baked treat (Photo courtesy Gabi Ancarola). Traditional greek breakfast
    Bougatsa, another traditionally baked treat (Photo courtesy Gabi Ancarola).

    Some of the dishes to be found at the Cretan breakfast table are rusks, graviera cheese, myzithra cheese, and honey. As far as proteins, dishes include sygklino (salted and smoked pork), sausages, apaki (smoked pork), fried eggs with staka (butter-cream).

    Cretan pies usually have local cheese and wild greens. But there is also lyhnarakia (a small sweet pie with anthotyro cream cheese) and bougatsa (usually filled with custard on the island).

    Herbal teas and Greek coffee are also an important part of the Cretan breakfast tradition. And when sipped during a break looking at the Greek landscape from your hotel balcony, any day can start well.