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Hilopites

Description

  • Hilopites are a traditional Greek pasta known for their unique square or rectangular shape. They're usually small in size, resembling tiny flat noodles or dumplings, and are made from simple ingredients like semolina, flour, eggs, and milk. This gives them a distinctive texture that's a bit firmer and more toothsome than typical Italian pasta.

  • In Greek cuisine, hilopites are incredibly versatile and can be prepared in various ways. They're often cooked similarly to risotto, where they're sautéed with onions and garlic in olive oil, then simmered in broth until tender yet slightly al dente. This cooking method allows the hilopites to absorb flavors from the broth and aromatics, resulting in a dish that's rich in taste.

Ingredients
  • Hilopites
  • Olive oil.
  • Onion - finely chopped.
  • Garlic - minced
  • Chicken broth or water.
  • Grated cheese (like Parmesan or Feta)
  • Salt and pepper to taste.
  • Fresh herbs like parsley or oregano - for garnish
Directions
  • Boil the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the hilopites and cook according to the package instructions, usually for about 7-10 minutes, until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion (and minced garlic if using) and sauté until translucent and slightly golden.
  • Combine with Noodles: Add the drained hilopites to the skillet with the onions. Stir to combine, ensuring the noodles are well coated with the olive oil and onion mixture.
  • Add Liquid: Pour in chicken broth or water. The amount depends on how you prefer the consistency; more liquid for a soup-like dish, less for a pasta-like dish. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the noodles are fully tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
  • Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you're using cheese, sprinkle it over the top and let it melt slightly. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
  • Serve Warm: Serve the hilopites warm as a side dish or a light main course.
  • Feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to your taste. This dish is quite versatile and pairs well with a variety of ingredients like mushrooms, spinach, or even meat like chicken or lamb. Enjoy your cooking!