I’m absolutely loving Zoe’s monthly Greek food stories and hope you are too! This time we get to learn about Parian food. (Click here for Part One and Part Two and Part Three)
———————————————-
Today we will travel through the flavors of the heart of the Cycladic Island of Paros
Paros Island, Greece by Tango7174
Breathtaking natural beauty, crystal clear waters, secret footpaths leading to traditional villages and hidden landscapes make Paros one of the best loved and most popular holiday destinations in Greece. Living on an island like Paros is like living in paradise. Sun-drenched beaches, whitewashed houses, colorful boats and people so warm and gentle that you will never feel like a stranger. One thing that eases you into island life and makes your feel right at home is the variety and flavour of the island’s incredible food.
Parian cuisine is based mostly on vegetables and pulses, but with the added flavors of delicious fresh fish and the finest shellfish. These are easily available in every single fish tavern on the island.
A local specialty Paros is famous for is “gouna” a sun dried salty mackerel fish, served grilled with fresh lemon. You will certainly see it hanging in the sun outside tavernas and houses on the island.
Another Paros seafood specialty is the delicious “salatouri”, or fresh stingray salad. The stingray is caught and kept in salt before boiling or baked on the grilled. It is served with mixed leaves and is perfect for a light lunch. Served with extra lemon juice!
Last but not least this traditional dish is an absolute classic. Order a fish soup called “kakavia”, made with any kind of fish that fishermen caught in the early morning but are unable to sell. The soup is so easy to make, since it was made in a simple pot on deck, however the magic is in the experience of the one who cooks it!
If you want an authentic stay in Paros and taste delicious local cuisine, then stay in a quieter part of the island, in fishing villages like Piso Livadi or Alyki Village outside the crowded capital Parikia. There, small fish taverns, ouzeris and family run hotels like Aloni hotel will ensure you really feel like a local.