Bougatsa

The name “bougatsa”, comes from the Ottoman word “pogatsa” (a different word in Latin for “foccacia” meaning, sweet pie) and was used to describe a “salty or sweet pie filling, wrapped very well and tightly in the dough”. Traditionally, is served as a sweet breakfast treat but it also makes a great snack or dessert.

Available at every corner in Greece in the specialty shops called ‘bougatsopolia’. Bougatsa (Greek custard pie with phyllo) is a delicious Greek pastry filled with Greek cream. The warm custard filling takes over your senses instantly. Originating from Constantinopole during the Byzantine period. As many Turkish immigrants settled in Northern Greece, bougatsa became a specialty of Serres and Thessaloniki. Still a traditional Greek dessert, the pastry was invented before the city fell to the Turkish occupants. Originally the filling found in the pastries was both sweet and savory. Today, however, most prefer to have this delicacy to be sweet.

Make sure to get a taste during your next visit to Greece! These scrumptious delights are abundant year-round.