If you attend a wedding in Crete, you must try it!
It symbolises the couple's deep connection and commitment.
Cretan pilaf is a traditional dish served at Cretan weddings, symbolising the couple's strong foundation and connection.
Ingredients:
1 1/2 - 2 kilos of hoggit cut into portions
Carolina rice
lemon juice
lemon zest
salt - pepper
Procedure:
Rinse the meat thoroughly and place it in a pot with plenty of water. Bring it to a boil and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, skimming any foam with a slotted spoon. Continue simmering for approximately 2 hours. Once cooked, remove the meat using a slotted spoon and transfer it to a serving platter. Season with salt.
Next, strain the broth and measure it. The recommended ratio is 3.5 cups of broth to 1 cup of rice. In a large pot, bring the broth to a boil. Once boiling, add the rice and reduce the heat to medium. Allow the rice to simmer for about 20 minutes, until cooked through.
Once the rice is ready, add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring it to a final boil, then remove it from the heat. Stir in the lemon zest and cover the pot with a clean white tea towel and its lid. Serve the pilaf hot alongside the meat.
Lena Igoumenaki
President of the Cretan Cuisine Festival Association
Cretan Cuisine Festival
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