Greek cuisine is known for its rich flavors and unique ingredients. One delicacy that stands out is the Greek smoked pork, which includes two popular variations: Siglino and Cretan Apaki. These traditional Cretan meats are marinated with a mix of herbs, spices, and extra virgin olive oil, then slowly smoked to perfection, resulting in a delightful combination of flavors.
What is Siglino?
Siglino is a traditional Cretan pork meat that has gained popularity not only in Greece but also worldwide. It is made from lean pork marinated in extra virgin olive oil and a carefully curated blend of herbs and spices. The marinated meat is then slowly smoked, allowing it to absorb the delightful aromas of the wood used in the smoking process.
Produced by the local producer Hasikos, Siglino is renowned for its high quality. It is often served as a meze, making it an excellent addition to charcuterie platters. To enjoy Siglino, simply sauté it in a pan for a few minutes and serve. It is recommended to preserve Siglino refrigerated between 2°- 4° Celsius until its expiry date, and it is also suitable for home freezing.
Siglino is available in a convenient 500gr ℮ pack, although the weight may vary slightly (+- 0.075gr).
What is Cretan Apaki?
Cretan Apaki is another traditional smoked and salted meat from Crete. Similar to Siglino, it is made from lean pork marinated in a mixture of mountainous herbs, spices, and extra virgin olive oil. The marinated meat undergoes a slow and natural smoking process, which imparts it with the enticing aromas of the wood used.
Produced by the local producer Paterakis, Cretan Apaki is known for its exceptional quality. Like Siglino, it is often served as a meze and can be enjoyed as part of charcuterie platters or separately. To savor the flavors of Cretan Apaki, simply sauté it in a pan for a few minutes before serving.
Similar to Siglino, Cretan Apaki should be preserved refrigerated between 2°- 4° Celsius until its expiry date. It is also suitable for home freezing.
Cretan Apaki is available in a convenient 350gr ℮ pack, with a slight weight variation of +- 0.075kg.
What makes Greek smoked pork unique?
Greek smoked pork, including Siglino and Cretan Apaki, stands out due to its marination process, which combines a mix of herbs, spices, and extra virgin olive oil. The slow smoking process infuses the meat with distinct wood aromas, resulting in a flavorful and tender product.
How should Siglino and Cretan Apaki be served?
Siglino and Cretan Apaki are both versatile and can be served in various ways. They are commonly enjoyed as meze, making them perfect for charcuterie platters. Additionally, they can be sautéed in a pan for a few minutes and served as a standalone dish. The choice is yours!
Can Siglino and Cretan Apaki be frozen?
Yes, both Siglino and Cretan Apaki can be preserved in the freezer. However, it is recommended to consume them before their expiry date for the best flavor and texture.
Greek smoked pork, particularly Siglino and Cretan Apaki, offers a unique culinary experience. These traditional Cretan meats are marinated with a blend of herbs, spices, and extra virgin olive oil, then slowly smoked to perfection. The result is a delightful combination of flavors and aromas that can be enjoyed as part of a meze or as a standalone dish. Whether you're a fan of charcuterie platters or looking to explore new flavors, Greek smoked pork is a must-try delicacy.
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