Ep 7. Episode 107: The Lesvos Spirit

In episode 7 of season 1 of My Greek Table with Diane Kochilas, viewers are taken on a culinary journey to the beautiful island of Lesvos. This episode is titled "The Lesvos Spirit" and focuses on the diverse landscapes, rich history, and unique flavors of the island.

As always, Diane begins her adventure by exploring the island's local markets and sampling some of the traditional dishes. She meets with local farmers and artisans to learn about the ingredients and techniques that make Lesvos's cuisine so special. Diane tastes unique cheeses, olives, and olive oils, as well as a rich meat dish called kontosouvli and the traditional sweet of the island pasteli, made with sesame and honey.

On her journey, Diane visits Agiassos, a picturesque town located on the slopes of Mount Olympus. She explores the town's narrow streets and beautiful architecture. Diane stops at a bakery famous for its local pastries, such as the semolina cake called halvadopita and the sweet sesame cookies known as mouratania.

Later in the episode, viewers are taken to Skala Eressos, a seaside village known for its beautiful beaches and fresh seafood. Diane meets with a charismatic fisherman who shows her the art of fishing and then cooks a traditional dish using freshly caught octopus.

Diane also pays a visit to a local ouzo distillery and learns about the extensive process of making this quintessential Greek spirit. She samples some of the different varieties of ouzo and learns how to properly drink it alongside some delicious meze.

The episode ends with Diane learning about and cooking a delicious Lesvos dish known as savoro. This unique dish consists of fried fish that is marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce made with vinegar, rosemary, and bay leaves.

Overall, "The Lesvos Spirit" is a perfect example of the beauty and diversity of Greek cuisine and culture. Diane does an excellent job of showcasing the unique flavors and techniques of Lesvos while also highlighting the island's history and landscape. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in Greek food or travel.