Greek Pies: A Delicious Journey Through the Culinary Traditions of Crete

Greece is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, and among its many delectable offerings, Greek pies hold a special place. They have been a staple of the country’s cuisine for centuries, with variations found throughout the mainland and islands. Explore the unique world of Cretan pies that perfectly embodies the island’s culinary traditions and local flavors.

These savory and sweet delights are beloved for their flaky crusts, hearty fillings, and the way they bring people together around the table. While Greek pies come in many forms, pies in Crete stand out for their distinctive preparation methods and unique flavor profiles. But what makes these island treats so special?

 

Cretan Pies: A Pan-Cooked Delight

One of the most interesting aspects of pies in Crete is their cooking method. Unlike many pies from different regions of Greece that are baked in an oven, the majority of pies in Crete are cooked in a pan. This technique gives them a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior that’s truly irresistible.

The pan-cooking method is deeply rooted in Cretan culinary tradition. It reflects the island’s history of resourcefulness and the need to create delicious meals with limited equipment. This cooking style also allows for quick preparation, perfect for satisfying hungry families or unexpected guests – a common occurrence in the famously hospitable Cretan culture.

 

 

Mizithra is the Primary Cheese in Cretan Pies

No discussion of Cretan pies would be complete without mentioning mizithra, a cheese that plays a starring role in many of these delectable treats. Mizithra is a traditional Cretan cheese variety that holds a special place in Cretan cuisine, especially in pie-making. Take a closer look at the cheese map of Greece! 

 

What is Mizithra Cheese?

Mizithra is a fresh cheese made from sheep’s milk, goat’s milk, or a combination of both. It has a soft, creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. In Crete, mizithra is often used fresh, but it can also be dried to produce a harder, saltier cheese known as anthotyros.

Mizithra is a key ingredient in many pies, both savory and sweet. Its creamy texture and mild flavor make it incredibly versatile:

1. In savory pies, mizithra is often mixed with herbs to create a flavorful filling.
2. For sweet pies, mizithra can be sweetened with honey and flavored with cinnamon.
3. The famous sfakiani pie uses mizithra as its primary filling, showcasing the cheese’s ability to work in both sweet and savory contexts.

 

 

Savory Cretan Delights: 

Cretan cuisine is known for its use of fresh, local ingredients, and its savory pies are no exception. Here are some popular savory Cretan pies you shouldn’t miss:

1. Kalitsounia: These small, crescent-shaped pies are filled with a mixture of fresh herbs and soft Cretan cheese. They’re typically pan-fried until golden and crispy.

2. Marathopita: A pie made with wild fennel (marathos), onions, and olive oil. It’s a testament to Cretans’ love for wild greens and herbs.

3. Kreatotourta: A hearty meat pie filled with lamb (or goat), mizithra, graviera, and aromatic herbs. It’s often served during festive occasions.

4. Sfakiani pie (or Sfakianopita): Named after the region of Sfakia, this pie is filled with soft cheese and drizzled with honey after cooking. It’s a perfect balance of savory and sweet.

5. Haniotiko Boureki (or Kolokythoboureko): A layered pie from Chania, made with zucchini, potatoes, mizithra, and graviera cheese. It’s a light summery dish which has its origins in western Crete, in the region of Chania.

6. Kremmydokalitsouna: Delicious mini pies simply stuffed with onions and xinomizithra cheese, a type of mizithra with a distinct sour flavor.

7. Sarikopitakia: These crispy dough spirals fried in olive oil are topped with sesame for extra crispiness.

 

 

Sweet Cretan Delicacies:

The island also boasts a variety of sweet pies that are sure to satisfy any dessert lover:

1. Lyhnarakia: These small, sweet Cretan tartelettes are filled with fresh mizithra and flavored with cinnamon. They are called “lyhnarakia” because their shape may be like an ancient oil lamp (lyhnos).

2. Nerati Mizithropita: The traditional cheese pie of Sitia, a region on the easternmost side of Crete. Filled with xinomizithra cheese and drizzled with thyme honey, it’s a favorite local delicacy for a proper Cretan breakfast or as a sweet dessert.

3. Mizithropitakia: Mini sweet pies, fried, filled with fresh mizithra cheese and spearmint. In Crete, “pitarakia” is the term used for small pies of various kinds. 

4. Kalitsounia (anevata): The popular sweet delicacy of Crete which is made out of sourdough. A sweet version of kalitsounia, filled with sweet myzithra cheese and flavored with cinnamon and honey. They’re often served during Easter celebrations.

 

 

The Art of Making Cretan Pies: Tips and Tricks

Creating authentic pies at home might seem daunting, but with a few key tips, you’ll be on your way to mastering these delicious treats:

1. Use high-quality olive oil: Cretan cuisine relies heavily on extra virgin olive oil, and it’s crucial for achieving the right flavor and texture in your pies.

2. Don’t overwork the dough: For flaky, tender crusts, handle the dough gently and avoid over-kneading.

3. Control the heat: When pan-cooking pies, maintain medium heat to ensure even cooking without burning.

4. Experiment with fillings: While traditional recipes are delicious, don’t be afraid to get creative with local, seasonal ingredients.

5. Add one shot of tsikoudia (the Cretan spirit drink): One shot of tsikoudia helps give the pie a crispy texture. You can replace tsikoudia with cognac, red wine vinegar, or rhum.

 

What Can I Use as a Mizithra Substitute in Greek Pies?

While mizithra has a unique flavor and texture, you can try these substitutes in your recipes:

1. Ricotta cheese: This is probably the closest substitute. It has a similar texture and mild flavor.

2. Feta cheese: For savory pies, crumbled feta can work, though it’s saltier than mizithra.

3. A mix of ricotta and feta: This combination can mimic both the texture of mizithra and its slightly salty flavor.

Remember, these substitutes may alter the flavor and texture of your pie slightly, but they’ll still result in a delicious treat. For the most authentic experience, try to source real Cretan mizithra if possible.

 

Greek Pies in Modern Cuisine

While deeply rooted in tradition, pies from Crete have also found their place in modern Greek cuisine. Many contemporary Greek chefs are reimagining these classic recipes, experimenting with new flavor combinations while respecting traditional cooking methods.

The growing interest in Mediterranean diets has also brought Cretan cuisine and pies into the spotlight. Using wholesome ingredients like olive oil, fresh vegetables, and herbs aligns perfectly with current health food trends.

 

 

Are all Pies in Crete Cooked in a Pan?

While the majority of pies in Crete are indeed cooked in a pan, there are some exceptions. A few varieties, like some versions of Haniotiko Boureki (also known as kolokythoboureko), are traditionally baked in an oven. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days and reheated in a pan or oven.

 

Is Cretan Cuisine Vegetarian?

Absolutely! Many pies in Crete are naturally vegetarian, filled with cheese, seasonal vegetables, or wild greens (horta). Cretans have a deep connection to their land, and it is reflected in the cuisine. Fresh vegetables, herbs, and fruits play a starring role.

Extra virgin olive oil is the backbone of the local cuisine. Even traditionally meat-based pies can often be adapted with plant-based fillings. Cretan vegetarian cuisine celebrates simplicity, local ingredients, and the joy of sharing meals with loved ones. Cook a selection of easy vegetable-based recipes at the core of Cretan cuisine!

 

 

Experience the Flavors of Crete at Home

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Cretan gastronomy is an important, rich chapter of Greek cuisine offering lots of food options for a vegetarian-based diet as well. Download now your free Cretan recipes to learn how to cook the Cretan way from scratch! Happy cooking!