Pita me Elies

Pita me Elies Recipe - Traditional Greek Recipe

Region / culture: Greece | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Pita me Elies is a traditional Greek dish that combines the flavors of olives, ham, and mint in a delicious pie. This savory dish is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a family dinner.

History

Pita me Elies has been a popular dish in Greece for generations. The combination of ingredients like olives, ham, and mint reflects the Mediterranean flavors that are characteristic of Greek cuisine.

Ingredients

5.5 tsp of soft flour
0.5 tsp of olive oil
4 eggs
1 tsp of milk
1 spoon of ham, finely chopped
2 onions, finely chopped
1 spoon of fresh mint, finely chopped
2 tsp of baking powder
1 tsp of black olives, cleaned and finely chopped

How to prepare

In a bowl, beat the eggs, olive oil, onions, mint, and ham.
Slowly add the flour, baking powder, and milk, mixing well.
Finally, add the chopped ingredients and sprinkle with plenty of flour.
Shape the mixture by hand (avoid using a mixer as it will mash the ingredients).
Preferably, use a long and narrow baking pan to spread the mixture evenly.
Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake for 1 hour.
Allow the pie to cool, then slice and serve.

Variations

Add feta cheese for a creamy and tangy twist.
Substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to finely chop the onions, ham, and mint to ensure even distribution of flavors in the pie.

- Use a long and narrow baking pan to spread the mixture evenly and create a uniform pie.

- Allow the pie to cool before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Pita me Elies warm with a side salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Beating the eggs and olive oil together helps to create a light and fluffy texture in the pie.

- Preheating the oven ensures even baking of the pie.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use whole wheat flour instead of soft flour for a healthier option.

- Substitute the black olives with green olives for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Pita me Elies can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Pita me Elies on a platter garnished with fresh mint leaves for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Pita me Elies with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing cucumber mint cooler.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Pita me Elies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Pita me Elies contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Pita me Elies contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Pita me Elies contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Pita me Elies contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Pita me Elies is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron.

Alergens

Pita me Elies contains eggs and wheat, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Pita me Elies is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Pita me Elies is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a combination of savory ingredients and a light and fluffy texture, this Greek pie is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was a hot summer day and I was visiting my sister who had just returned from a trip to Greece. She had brought back with her a cookbook filled with traditional Greek recipes, and one in particular caught my eye - Pita me Elies.

As soon as I saw the ingredients list, I knew this was a dish I had to try making. The recipe called for olives, feta cheese, tomatoes, and a variety of herbs and spices that I had never used before. I could already imagine the flavors and aromas that would fill my kitchen as I cooked.

I asked my sister to show me how to make the dish, and she gladly agreed. We spent the afternoon preparing the ingredients, chopping the vegetables, and marinating the olives in olive oil and herbs. As we worked together, my sister shared stories of her time in Greece and the meals she had enjoyed there.

When the pita was finally ready, we sat down to eat and I was transported to a little taverna overlooking the Aegean Sea. The flavors were bold and savory, with the salty olives and tangy feta cheese perfectly complementing the sweet tomatoes and aromatic herbs. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made Pita me Elies countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. I have added extra garlic for a more pungent flavor, experimented with different types of olives, and even tried substituting the feta cheese with goat cheese for a creamier texture.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, and it has become a favorite among all who have tried it. I love the way that food has the power to bring people together, to create memories and foster connections. Every time I make Pita me Elies, I am reminded of the day I first discovered the recipe and the joy it brought into my life.

As I sit here in my kitchen, preparing the ingredients for another batch of Pita me Elies, I am grateful for the experiences and people who have shaped my love of cooking. From my sister's travels to Greece to the countless hours spent in the kitchen with my own children, each moment has contributed to my culinary journey.

I may not have traveled to Greece myself, but through this recipe, I am able to experience a taste of the Mediterranean right in my own home. And for that, I am truly grateful. Cooking is not just about nourishing the body, but also the soul. And with each bite of Pita me Elies, I am reminded of the beauty and richness of life.