What Makes Greek Food So Good?

Greek food isn’t just a meal; it’s like stumbling upon a hidden treasure chest of flavors, a culinary adventure that’ll have your taste buds doing the happy dance. If you’ve ever wondered what’s the deal with Greek food, hold onto your taste buds because we’re about to dive headfirst into the delicious mysteries of Greece.

A Taste of Greece: Why Greek Food Rocks

Greek cuisine isn’t about culinary acrobatics; it’s all about letting the ingredients shine and doing a little Mediterranean dance in your mouth. So, let’s spill the (olive) oil on what makes Greek food stand out:

Freshness Rules the Roost. Greek food takes the “fresh is best” mantra to a new level. It’s like they have a hotline to the vegetable garden of the gods, serving up ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and herbs so fragrant they make your taste buds stand up and applaud.

Mediterranean Magic on Your Plate

Thanks to its prime Mediterranean real estate, Greek cuisine boasts a seafood game as strong as Poseidon’s trident. It’s a seafood lover’s paradise, from grilled octopus to buttery sardines.

Herbs & Spices: The Greek Flavor Wizardry

Greek chefs are like wizards with herbs and spices. Oregano, thyme, rosemary, and garlic are their magic wands, transforming simple ingredients into culinary enchantments.

Simplicity with a Dash of Pizzazz

Greek cuisine knows how to do “less is more” with style. Whether it’s a classic Greek salad or a gyro bursting with flavor, they believe in quality ingredients stealing the spotlight.

The Liquid Gold: Olive Oil

Olive oil in Greek cooking isn’t just an ingredient; it’s the show’s star. It’s got a rich, fruity flavor that adds a dose of Mediterranean sunshine to every dish.

Tavernas: Where the Magic Happens

In Greece, meals are more than just eating; they’re an event. Gather with friends and family at a cozy taverna, raise a glass of ouzo, and let the feast begin. It’s like a Mediterranean fiesta for your taste buds.

Sweet Endings with Greek Desserts

Greek desserts are the grand finale that’ll leave your sweet tooth singing. Baklava, those honey-soaked layers of pastry, are like a culinary hug from Greece.

Why You Should Savor Greek Food at Committee

At Committee, we’re like culinary wizards, conjuring up the essence of Greece in every dish. From the freshest ingredients to age-old recipes, we’re here to make your taste buds do a Greek dance. Greek food isn’t just about filling your belly; it’s about creating memories around the table and experiencing the joys of simplicity.. So, set off on the culinary adventure and let Greek food’s goodness guide you.

Your Guide to Exploring the Seaport in Boston, MA

Committee is located in the Seaport District of Boston, MA. This neighborhood has a significant place in American history as it was the site of the Boston Tea Party. These wharves and warehouses stored vast amounts of sugar, molasses, and items used in the local shipbuilding trade. The area is now a thriving community with various shops, restaurants, tourist destinations, and not to mention beautiful views. 

How To Get To The Seaport District

Reach the Seaport District attractions through the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority’s subway system, known locally as the “T.” The nearest T stop is South Station on the Red Line. There are also multiple stops along the Silver Line, including Court House and World Trade. The Seaport District is a quick walk from Boston’s Financial District, Faneuil Hall, and other downtown locations.

Activities for All Ages in the Seaport 

Boston Children’s Museum

The Boston Children’s Museum was founded in 1913 and is the country’s second-oldest children’s museum. It offers a wide range of hands-on exhibits and activities for all ages. Winning the 2015 Children in Museums Award for Lifetime Achievement, the museum is perfect for exploration, learning, and discovery. It offers educational exhibits that make learning about art, culture, and science fun. Exhibitions include:

• An authentic Japanese House.
• A three-story climbing structure.
• A stage where children can participate in their production.

The iconic 40-foot tall Hood Milk Bottle is located right outside!

Institute of Contemporary Art

The Institute of Contemporary Art is noted for the architecture of its building as much as it is for its art collection. Diller, Scofidio, and Renfro’s design features a cantilevered glass exterior with sharp angles contrasting the 18th-century brick warehouses nearby. Known as ICA Boston, the museum hosts a range of events. Catch films, presentations, performances, and exhibits by established and emerging contemporary artists worldwide. The museum has showcased works by Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and Robert Rauschenberg.

Seaport District Waterfront Restaurants 

The Seaport District has a burgeoning food and music scene with the choice of brewpubs and casual and fine dining restaurants serving various fare. Inspired by the modern-day “ouzeri” found throughout Greece, Committee is the vibrant, welcoming place where the conversation flows, the sharable plates delight and satisfy, and the creative cocktails keep the mood light and fun. Kick back in a place that brings a new spark to the Boston waterfront. Get a taste of Greek meze and cocktails in Boston, MA! Call us today at 617.737.5051!

Try These Greek Meals In Boston, MA

Are you looking for new meals to try? Are you transitioning into a Mediterranean diet?

Here are some great Greek meal options for you to try. Visit Committee in the Seaport of Boston, MA, for an authentic Greek experience. 

Meze & Cheeses

One of the most famous Greek cuisines you must try is our meze and cheese options as a first course or a light snack. This typically includes an array of Greek dips, including tzatziki, hummus, or a yogurt dip. At Committee, we have various options, including our delicious Halloumi cheese french fries, served with a tomato-mustard sauce. We also have a simple olive meze dish with Peloponnese olives, garlic, cumin, thyme, and orange zest. 

Spanakopita 

If you have yet to try Spanakopita, visit the Committee as soon as possible. Spanakopita is a delicious savory pie made of crispy layers of phyllo dough and a comforting filling of spinach and feta cheese. Spanakopita makes a great side dish for large holiday dinners next to lamb or lemon chicken. Serve it with a big salad like Greek or Mediterranean chickpea salads and favorite dips like Greek Tzatziki or Roasted Garlic Hummus. If you don’t feel like cooking it yourself, visit Committee and try our take on the Spanakopita with our Spanakopita Manti, spinach and feta dumplings, sun-dried tomatoes, and retsina sauce. 

Gyro

Gyros are one of the most famous Greek street food dishes. It is simple and consists of meat such as pork, chicken, or a lamb and veal mixture cooked on a vertical spit. The meat is sliced in thin shavings and placed in pita bread with toppings of your choice – such as tzatziki, tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and cucumbers. Some people also like to add french fries to the gyros for a crunchy addition. Gyros is derived from the Greek word gheereezo, meaning to turn, referring to the rotating spit on which the meat is cooked. Some believe that gyros originated during Alexander the Great when soldiers skewered meat on their swords and cooked it over a fire. At Committee, we offer a twist to the gyro with our bao gyro – consisting of crispy pork belly, BBQ tzatziki, and Greek slaw.

Souvlaki 

Souvlaki is one of the most famous Greek dishes in addition to gyros. It comprises small cubes of skewered and grilled pork, chicken, lamb, or beef. It is a popular fast food typically served in small eateries that often serve gyros and similar grilled meat dishes. Souvlaki first appeared in ancient Greece when it was called kandaulos, consisting of grilled meat, pita bread, cheese, and dill. At Committee in Boston, MA, we offer a lamb souvlaki with rigani, lemon, and tzatziki. 

Why Greek Food is the Healthiest Diet

Greek food is popular in restaurants, parties, and home gatherings. Research shows that the exceptional preference for Greek food isn’t only attributed to its taste and health advantages. According to the U.S. World News Report, individuals living around the Mediterranean Sea live longer and healthy. They are mostly found to be free of cancer and cardio-related diseases. Greek foods are considered the healthiest diet because they are rich in nutrients. Thus, the primary nutritional components of Greek foods are further explained below.

Fresh Vegetables

Greek diets contain many fresh vegetables, including cucumbers, leafy greens, eggplants, tomatoes, and bell peppers. These vegetables are rich in minerals, vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is a cornerstone of Greek cuisine and is used generously in cooking and salads. It is considered a better alternative to butter because olive oil contains healthy omega-3 fatty acids and is lower in saturated fat. The fat content in olive oil benefits heart health and reduces inflammation. 

Whole Grains

Grains like whole wheat, barley, and bulgur are commonly used in Greek dishes. They offer complex carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients.

Lean Proteins

Greek cuisine incorporates lean protein sources, such as fish, seafood, poultry, legumes, and yogurt. These proteins provide essential amino acids and are lower in saturated fats than red meat.

Fresh Herbs and Spices

Greek cuisine incorporates an array of herbs and spices like oregano, thyme, mint, and garlic. This adds flavor without the need for excess salt or unhealthy sauces.

Other Characteristics of Greek Foods

Apart from the nutritional components, Greek foods are also made up of the following characteristics:

Limited processed foods: Traditional Greek cuisine relies on fresh, whole foods and minimizes using processed and fast foods. This reduces the intake of unhealthy additives and preservatives.

Red wine: Red wine, a common feature in the Mediterranean diet, has particular health benefits when consumed in moderation. These benefits include anti-oxidation, improved heart, healthy bones, and better blood sugar control.

Social and lifestyle factors: Besides the food itself, Greek food is often enjoyed socially and leisurely. This encourages mindful eating and positive social interactions.

The Greek diet is low in red meat, saturated fat, and sugar, and its combination with an active lifestyle helps manage weight. Embracing the principles of Greek food as an approach to nutrition can contribute to your well-being. 

Plan Your Trip To Boston, MA, This Summer

Some people love summer, while others hate the intense heat from the scorching sun. However, this differs in Boston, as everyone seems to love summer. Boston, Massachusetts, offers many activities and attractions during the summer months. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventures or want to enjoy the weather, here are things to explore in Boston.

Step Aboard the Tall Ship in Boston 

The Tall Ship in Boston is a majestic vessel, a replica of an 18th-century sailing ship, standing tall with its impressive masts and billowing sails. Once on board, you’ll be welcomed by a friendly and knowledgeable crew passionate about sharing Boston’s maritime heritage. For a more leisurely experience, find a cozy spot on the deck to relax. You can bask in the sun and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the waves.

Bow Market Offers Unforgettable Summer Experience

Embrace the vibrant spirit of the summer season by visiting Bow Market, a bustling marketplace in the heart of Somerville, Massachusetts. This dynamic outdoor marketplace is known for its creativity, showcasing the talents of local artists, makers, and entrepreneurs. Bow Market is a paradise of diverse flavors and delights for foodies and culinary enthusiasts. 

Fun in the Sun at Castle Island

Experience the enchanting beauty and rich history of Castle Island, an idyllic oasis tucked away in South Boston, Massachusetts. Feel the warm sun on your face and the gentle ocean breeze as you stroll along the picturesque HarborWalk that encircles Castle Island. Castle Island also offers a pristine beach where you can bask in the sun, build sandcastles, and take refreshing dips in the inviting waters. 

Embark on a Breathtaking Summer Adventure at the Charles River

Paddle Boston offers a variety of watercraft rentals suitable for all ages and skill levels, ensuring that everyone can participate in this delightful experience. The Charles River also awaits you, which promises a day of leisure, exploration, and connection with nature right in the city’s heart.

Visit Committee in the Seaport 

After a long day of exploring the city, visit Committee in the Seaport for a fun and vibrant atmosphere with delicious Greek cuisine and drinks. Inspired by the modern-day “ouzeri” found throughout Greece, Committee is the kind of vibrant, welcoming place where the conversation flows, the sharable plates delight and satisfy, and the creative cocktails keep the mood light and fun. Step in and kick back in a gathering place that brings a new spark–and a true taste of Greece–to the Boston waterfront. 

Don’t Miss Out On These Greek Brunch Essentials

Greek brunch brings a wide variety of foods and flavors to the table. After a long week, a great way to spend a weekend day is to get brunch with good people and indulge in even better food! Committee Boston offers a delicious brunch menu filled with must-try items. Continue reading to learn more about some Greek brunch essentials and prepare for your next weekend brunch!

Bougatsa

This traditional Greek dish is the perfect thing to order at brunch! Bougatsa is a Greek breakfast pastry made deliciously with phyllo, vanilla custard, and cinnamon and topped with powdered sugar. The sweetness in this dish is just what you need for your sweet tooth!

Artichoke Moussaka

A well-known dish that you have to try is artichoke moussaka. There are many variations of moussaka, but this one is the best. It is made to perfection with artichokes, caramelized onions, potatoes, and béchamel. This makes for a perfect brunch dish for you to indulge in with its delicious, savory flavors!

Greek Yogurt

A breakfast/brunch essential that everyone knows about! Greek yogurt brings a creamy, tart flavor to the table. Greek yogurt at Committee Boston is served with sour cherry version, pasteli, berries, and granola. If you’re looking for something light but still delicious and sweet, this is the essential brunch!

Classic Greek Omelet

Omelets are always a go-to brunch meal. They’re packed with many flavors and are just what you need on the weekend. A classic Greek omelet is made with spinach, dill, scallions, and feta served with home fries and pita. This perfect combination offers fresh and savory tastes; you can’t pass up on this brunch essential!

Loukaniko Hash

This brunch dish serves you with three sunny-side-up eggs, pork and leek sausage, butternut squash, celery root, spinach, and sourdough toast. With a combination like this, you can go right! Try this weekend brunch essential during your next visit to Committee Boston!

Spanakopita Grilled Cheese

Everyone loves grilled cheeses… You will have to try this spanakopita grilled cheese for brunch! Deliciously served with feta, kasseri, and spinach on sourdough bread and a side of tomato soup. This is a perfect meal for the cooler days when you want something comforting and warm!

Visit Committee in the Seaport 

At Committee Boston, we’re serving up the brunch essentials you need. Visit us today and enjoy our delicious brunch selection. Contact us at (617) 737-5051 or visit our website. We look forward to having you!

The History of Greek Meze

Meze is a term that describes a custom in Greece and other Mediterranean nations. Although it is similar to how we think of “appetizers” in the United States, it is much more than that in Greece. Meze consists of little dishes created to be shared and savored over an extended time by friends and family.

What is a meze?

Known variously as mezedes or meters, a meze platter is a collection of little nibbles that makes an ideal appetizer or light meal before dinner. It hits the perfect balance between being fair enough to enable you to enjoy your meal and being substantial enough to satisfy your appetite. It can be consumed before the main course or as a full dining experience. It can be grouped into the following basic groups:

• Hot meze
• Vegetable meze
• Sweet meze
• Cold meze
• Fish meze

History of Greek meze

Meze originated in the Balkans, Greece, Turkey, and nations further south, like Lebanon and Syria. This long-standing custom shows a value Greeks hold: conversing with friends over a few dishes of delectable, straightforward food while enjoying different meals. The Greeks rarely eat without drinking, and they seldom drink without eating.

The practice of savoring mezethes is still very much alive in the capital of Greece, and on any given day of the week in the mid-afternoon, the city’s downtown mezethopoleia are crowded with workers taking a break or stopping by before returning home for a full midday meal. 

What consists of a meze?

Nearly anything can be served as a meze, ranging from a straightforward dish of olives, sliced cucumber, and bread to hearty preparations like spicy sauces or even yesterday’s leftover supper. The type of meze provided will depend on the kind of booze being consumed. For instance, dishes with strong flavors like pickled vegetables, strong cheeses, olives, and salted fish accompany less flavored wine.

Why meze?

Greek culture still holds fast to the ancient Greeks’ emphasis on the communal nature of eating, as eating with family, friends, or coworkers is more advantageous since you can ensure everyone eats enough and that there are no leftovers after the meal. Making time to eat with others might be challenging in today’s hectic world. Thankfully, Greeks worldwide offer various services, including catering and in-store dining, to allow indigenes and tourists to share a meal. The history of Greek meze goes beyond the cuisine alone; it also reflects the customs and values that make up Greek civilization. Meze symbolizes friendliness, charity, and the pleasure of dining with loved ones and exemplifies the culture of loving the embrace of a family or stranger. 

5 Popular Greek Spirits You Should Try

Greek spirits are a great place to start when seeking something new! It can be challenging to know where to begin with various items to choose from. Fortunately, there is a handful of considered “must-try” items. These popular Greek spirits are some of the country’s most well-known and appreciated. 

Kitro

Kitro is a traditional Greek liqueur that is made from a citron tree. The process begins by softening the leaves in alcohol, distilling them, and combining them with a sugar-water mixture. The beverage is clear with a yellow-green tint and a citrus flavor. It is frequently enjoyed on the rocks but can also create tasty cocktails. A fun note to consider is that the beverage’s color can indicate its sweetness level. When the drink is green, it has a sweeter taste. On the other hand, a yellow Kitro is more potent in alcohol – typically around 36% ABV.

Rakomelo

For honey lovers, rakomelo is a must-try Greek spirit! Rakomelo differs from other spirits in its consistency, as the honey creates a thicker beverage. Because of the viscosity, it is best served warm and is commonly consumed in the colder months. Rakomelo is made by infusing Raki with honey and spices. Raki is another spirit distilled from the grape remnants after pressing for wine. The drink is sweet on the tongue and can be easily made at home with the right ingredients. 

Metaxa

Although the exact ingredients of Metaxa are unknown, it is a brand with brandy, wine, and different herbs. This Greek spirit has been around for over a century and is well-known worldwide. People describe the taste as rich, sweet, fruity, floral, and spicy. Metaxa achieves its taste with a particular mix of ingredients and barrel aging. Its flavor is popular for those who wish to drink it straight, but it also creates tasty cocktails.

Ouzo

Ouzo may be the solution if you seek one of the most well-known and ancient Greek spirits. It tracks as far back as the 19th century and can only be produced in Greece. Ouzo is made from distilled grapes with aniseed, fennel, coriander, and licorice. Greeks pair Ouzo with appetizers like olives, feta cheese, and seafood. It is most commonly served on the rocks or neat. 

Visit Committee in the Seaport

If you would like to try one of the spirits above but aren’t making a trip to Greece anytime soon, visit Committee in the Seaport of Boston, MA! We have a variety of different craft cocktails and wine options for you to indulge in while taking in the beautiful sight of Boston Harbor.

Why You Should Visit Seaport in Boston, MA

Boston is one of the best destinations in America, striking a balance between a rich historical heritage and modern fun and amenities. It is where you can meet various people and enjoy a mish-mash of cultures and identities. Here are some things you can expect to enjoy on a trip to seaport Boston.

Boston Harbor Islands

The Boston Harbor Islands are 34 islands with a wealth of everything, including civil war-era forts, tide pools, nature trails, and activities such as swimming and camping, all within reach of the sprawling downtown metropolis. The islands are an excellent way to get up close and personal with nature without leaving the comfort of modern-day conveniences.

Rose Kennedy Greenway

Located right in the middle of a steel jungle, the Rose Kennedy Greenway is a striking change of pace with its vibrant greenery and beauty. It stretches over a mile, cuts across many neighborhoods, and contains plazas, art, fountains, and special lighting.

Boston Children’s Museum

The children’s museum answers those worried about their children lacking things to do in seaport Boston. The museum provides an excellent opportunity to learn about science, culture, art, health and fitness, and environmental awareness. There’s a little something for every child to discover in this museum.

New England Aquarium

The New England Aquarium gives its visitors the proper perspective on marine life and biology. In a reasonably natural habitat, you can see sharks, seals, whales, turtles, and more. It also provides an excellent learning opportunity for kids and adults alike on aspects of the ocean and aquatic life.

Freedom Trail

If you are a history buff, the Freedom Trail is your tea. It has everything from revolutionary-era museums to burial grounds. There’s a lot of heritage to be unearthed on this trail. You can also use it to instill knowledge in your children, although it might not be on the same level of coolness as the aquarium or parks.

Visit Committee in the Seaport

There are many places to visit in seaport Boston, and it would be impossible to see them all on an itinerary. However, the best thing about it is that there is something for everyone, and you are destined to find something that will make you fall in love with Boston. For a fun Greek meal, join us at Committee for delightful craft cocktails and delicious Greek cuisine.

The History of the Gyro

The gyro is a well-known Greek meal eaten for many years worldwide. It is often served in pita bread or platter and is a delectable combination of meat, vegetables, and spices. Gyros are an excellent and gratifying dish that has endured the test of time, despite some controversy about their origin. This blog post will discuss the gyro’s history and how it became the famous dish it is today.

Origin of the Gyro

While the gyro is frequently attributed to Greece, its origins are hazy. Some people think it was created in Greece, while others believe it was invented in Turkey. One of the most well-liked ideas is that Greek immigrants to America in the 1920s were responsible for its creation. Regardless of where it came from, the gyro is a typical dish in Greek cooking and is loved by people worldwide.

Ingredients and Preparation

Gyros are traditionally made with lamb but can also be made with chicken or beef. The meat is slow-roasted on a vertical spit after being marinated in a mixture of herbs and spices, including oregano, garlic, and lemon juice. The meat is shaved off the spit and served with lettuce, tomato, onion, and tzatziki, a yogurt-based sauce, as it cooks. In addition to rice or fries, the gyro can be done on pita bread or a plate.

Popularity and Evolution

In the 1920s, the gyro initially gained popularity in Greece, swiftly spreading to other countries. The dish became more well-known when Greek immigrants established eateries and food carts in the 1970s in the United States. The gyro has changed over time to incorporate new flavors and ingredients. For instance, some people now substitute pork or tofu for lamb, and some restaurants offer it with various sauces or garnishes.

Why Visit Commitee?

Visit Committee if you enjoy Greek food or want to learn more about the gyro’s past. The spinner is one of the many traditional Greek dishes we provide at our restaurant. Our gyros are slowly cooked to perfection on a vertical spit using fresh ingredients. We provide choices of toppings and sauces so that you may personalize it to your tastes. Visit us and sample the gyro’s history for yourself.