Kreatopita Kritiki

Introduction

Kreatopita Kritiki, also known as Cretan meat pie, is a traditional dish from the island of Crete, Greece. This savory pie holds a special place in Cretan cuisine, reflecting the island's rich history and culinary traditions. Kreatopita Kritiki is characterized by its flavorful mix of meat, herbs, and spices encased in a crispy, golden phyllo pastry. This dish is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to festive celebrations.

History of Kreatopita Kritiki

The origin of the Cretan meat pie can be traced back to the Minoan civilization, known for its sophisticated palate and focus on fresh, local ingredients. Over centuries, this dish has evolved, incorporating influences from Venetian, Turkish, and Greek cuisines, shaping it into the flavorful masterpiece it is today. Throughout the island, various village recipes exist, each adding its unique twist to the cherished meat pie. Traditionally, this dish was prepared using locally sourced lamb or goat, seasoned with herbs native to the Cretan landscape such as oregano and thyme.

Ingredients

Meat Filling

• Lamb (1 kg, cubed)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Onion (1 large, chopped)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Bay leaf (1)
• Red wine (1/2 cup)
• Cinnamon stick (1)
• Allspice berries (5)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Phyllo Pastry

• Phyllo dough (500g)
• Olive oil or butter (melted, for brushing)

Herbs & Cheese

• Fresh thyme (2 tablespoons, chopped)
• Fresh dill (2 tablespoons, chopped)
• Fresh oregano (1 tablespoon, chopped)
• Feta cheese (200g, crumbled)

Preparation

Preparing the Meat Filling

1. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
3. Add the garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant.
4. Introduce the lamb pieces to the pan, cooking until browned on all sides.
5. Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze.
6. Add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and allspice berries.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the lamb is tender and flavors are well combined. Stir occasionally.
9. Once done, remove the spices and allow the mixture to cool slightly.

Assembling the Kreatopita Kritiki

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F). Ensure the cooking timer is set correctly.
2. Brush a baking dish with melted butter or olive oil.
3. Layer half of the phyllo dough sheets, one at a time, into the dish, brushing each with melted butter or olive oil.
4. Spread the lamb mixture evenly over the phyllo layers.
5. Sprinkle the feta cheese and fresh thyme, dill, and oregano over the meat filling.
6. Layer the remaining phyllo dough sheets on top, again brushing each one with the melted butter or olive oil.
7. Tuck in the phyllo edges to create a neat, sealed border.
8. Score the top layer of phyllo gently into serving squares or diamonds.

Baking the Pie

1. Place the pie in the preheated oven, baking for 40-45 minutes or until the phyllo is golden brown and crispy.
2. Check using a cooking timer to avoid over-baking.
3. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the pie to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoying Your Kreatopita Kritiki

Kreatopita Kritiki is best enjoyed warm as a main course. Serve it with a fresh Greek salad and a glass of chilled white wine for a true Cretan experience. Each bite is a delightful combination of tender meat, fragrant herbs, and the creamy tanginess of feta cheese, all wrapped in crispy, buttery phyllo.

This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated just before serving, making it a convenient yet impressive option for gatherings. Bon appétit!