A treasure trove of personal and factual information about the food of Greece and its Islands, from the Winner of Master Chef 2019. With thanks to Liz for her review.
Under the Olive Tree embraces everything that is wonderful about Greek cooking. The book is cleverly divided into two halves: the first focuses on quick and easy recipes, while the second is dedicated to weekend entertaining and annual celebrations. As seems to be the Mediterranean way, the recipes are simple, beautifully presented, and full of flavour.
Irini took part in MasterChef in 2019, during which time she was inspired to write this book, drawing on childhood memories of a busy Greek family kitchen as well as her experiences on the programme.
Take, for example, the Griddled Courgette Ribbons with Crumbled Feta and Mint Lemon Dressing. Imagine enjoying this with a glass of chilled, crisp white wine on a sunny afternoon. Later, for dinner, you might choose Roast Chicken with Root Vegetables and Chickpea Salad, Lamb Steak with Couscous Salad and Smoked Aubergine, or perhaps Slow-Roasted Lamb with Garlic, Herbs, Lemon, Mustard and Honey Dressing.
And do we need dessert? Oh yes! How about Lemon Curd Pavlova with Rose Chantilly Cream, Loukoumi and Marshmallows?
There are many ingredients featured in this book that a trip to Greece might introduce you to, but Irini thoughtfully explains the more unusual ingredients and where to find them. To be honest, our supermarkets are doing a pretty good job these days of keeping us up to date with exciting new flavours and products from around the world.
Wine pairings are also suggested for each recipe, with further guidance provided at the end of the book.
This is not a typical Greek holiday recipe book; it is so much more than that. If you are planning a trip to Greece, I would urge you to read it before you go and perhaps try a few recipes at home first. When you arrive, you’ll know exactly what dishes and flavours to look out for. And if you’re not travelling, this book offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the traditions, hospitality and flavours of Greece from your own kitchen. It will transport you there.
About the Book
Under the Olive Tree is a stunning and user-friendly collection of delicious Greek family recipes from Irini Tzortzoglou, the 2019 champion of MasterChef UK. Including accessible, everyday dishes for the home cook, as well as an entertaining section full of Irini’s tips and tricks for when you have a little more time or want to impress your guests.
Not only is Irini a fabulous cook, but she is a great teacher who cannot wait to show readers the dishes of her beloved homeland. With over 80 recipes, from breakfasts to quick dinners via salads full of sunshine, and on to feasting for Christmas, Easter and dinner parties, this cookbook is Irini’s celebration of Greece.
‘These recipes represent me as a cook and diner in that I like to experiment a little in putting flavours together, mixing classic combinations with my own touches.’
Recipes include:
* Chickpea and cumin fritters with a lemon and coriander yoghurt dip
* Cured salmon with star anise, yoghurt and ouzo cream, cucumber and fennel salad
* Aubergine topped with bulgur, sultanas, sundried tomatoes and pine nuts
* Braised Octopus in Red Wine with Sweetcorn Puree and Pepper Salsa
* Moussaka with beef, aubergine and red pepper sauce
* Slow-roasted lamb with herbs, lemon, mustard and honey
* Olive Oil, Almond and Candied Orange Baklava
About The Author
Irini Tzortzoglou was born on the Greek island of Crete, but has lived in the UK for forty years. Her home is in Cartmel in Cumbria, with her husband, John. She studied at Kingston University, is a retired banker and a step-grandmother. In 2019, Irini won MasterChef in the first all-female final seen on the show. Having attended a course in January 2020, Irini is also now an olive oil sommelier.
Purchase the Book
This book can be purchased in our store either on its own or in a cosy Book Box.
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