Spanakopita facts for kids
Spanakopita
|
|
| Type | Savoury pie |
|---|---|
| Place of origin | Greece |
| Region or state | Southern Europe |
| Main ingredients | Phyllo, spinach (or leeks, chard, or sorrel), feta and/or ricotta, onions or Spring onions, eggs |
Spanakopita is a yummy Greek pie that's full of flavor! It's often called a 'spinach pie' because its main ingredients are fresh spinach, salty feta cheese, eggs, and onions. All these tasty ingredients are wrapped up in thin, crispy layers of phyllo pastry, brushed with olive oil. People usually enjoy spanakopita as a snack, a light meal, or even for breakfast!
Contents
What is Spanakopita?
Spanakopita is a type of savoury pie. This means it's not sweet like a fruit pie, but instead has a salty or savory taste. The word "spanakopita" comes from two Greek words: "spanaki," meaning spinach, and "pita," meaning pie. So, it literally means "spinach pie."
The Special Pastry
The crust of spanakopita is made from phyllo dough. Phyllo is a very thin, unleavened dough. This means it doesn't use yeast to rise. It's made by rolling out dough into sheets that are almost as thin as paper. When baked, these layers become wonderfully crispy and flaky.
Main Ingredients
The most important ingredients in spanakopita are:
- Spinach: This green leafy vegetable gives the pie its name and much of its flavor.
- Feta Cheese: A salty, crumbly white cheese from Greece. It adds a unique tangy taste.
- Eggs: Eggs help bind the filling together.
- Onions: These add a savory depth to the flavor.
- Herbs: Often, fresh herbs like dill, mint, or parsley are added for extra flavor.
How Spanakopita is Made
Making spanakopita involves a few simple steps. First, the spinach is usually cooked to remove extra water. Then, it's mixed with the crumbled feta cheese, beaten eggs, chopped onions, and herbs. This mixture becomes the delicious filling.
Next, layers of phyllo dough are carefully brushed with olive oil or melted butter. The spinach and cheese filling is spread over some of these layers. More phyllo layers are placed on top. The pie is then baked until the phyllo is golden brown and super crispy.
When to Eat Spanakopita
Spanakopita is a versatile dish. It can be served warm or at room temperature. Many Greek families enjoy it as part of a main meal, often with a salad. It's also a popular appetizer at parties or a quick snack to grab on the go. Sometimes, people even eat it for breakfast!
History of Greek Pies
Pies like spanakopita have been a part of Greek cooking for a very long time. Ancient Greeks made simple pies with honey and cheese. Over centuries, these recipes evolved. The use of thin doughs, similar to phyllo, became popular in the Byzantine Empire. Spanakopita as we know it today is a beloved part of modern Greek food culture. It's a dish that connects people to the rich history and traditions of Greece.
