Fall in love with the cretan flavours!

Travellers from all corners of the world jet off to Crete year in and year out to dip into its emerald waters, sunbathe on its soft-sandy bays, and stroll through its ancient archaeological sites while soaking in the Cretan culture, traditions and unique flair, BUT everyone falls in love with the Cretan cuisine! On behalf of all food lovers out there, we have put together three top dishes and sweets to nibble on while sipping on raki!

Dakos Salad is Crete’s trademark salad. To make this delicious and refreshing salad, Cretans use a large piece of barley rusk, which they dip in water and leave to dry. On the top of the barley rusk they place a mixture of local produced ingredients. The mixture includes finely cut tomatoes, olives known as tsakistes and fennels, a tablespoon of lemon rind, mizithra (a locally produces soft cheese) and virgin olive oil. The result is amazing!

Gamos (wedding) and pilafi (rice) make up Gamopilafo! As you have already gathered, Gamopilafo is traditionally served at weddings or celebrations, even though currently the traditional dish is served in most traditional tavernas. Gamopilafo is one of the most ancient Cretan recipes; so those looking to truly experience the culture of the island must give it a try. The dish is made with boiled rice and goat-simple right? Well, the flavour is more than just simple.

Those with a sweet tooth will think they have died and gone to heaven, those without a sweet tooth will be tempted to revise their tastes. Trust us when we say, Cretan desserts are delicious! Sweet Kaltsounia are top of our list. These amazing treats are stuffed with cheese, honey, vanilla and cinnamon.

Finally, the best part! While nibbling on amazing Cretan dishes, have a raki! The Minoans were the first to produce the drink, thus if you know anything about the island’s history, you’ll probably know the Minoans thrived on the island well before 1600 BC. Thousands of years have passed, and the Cretans continue ‘drinking’ their ancient tradition! Cretan tsikoudia, or otherwise raki, is the island’s most famous drink. Wherever you go in Crete, even the shops, the Cretans always offer you a shot of raki. Raki is made from the leftovers of wine and accompanies any Cretan dish!