Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to Greece? Look no further! Today, we are thrilled to share with you the secret recipe for Greek Pasticio, a delicious and traditional dish that will transport your taste buds to the heart of Greece. Greek Pasticio, also known as Greek pie, is a savory pie filled with a mixture of ground meat, vegetables, and cheese, encased in a flaky pastry. Get ready to learn how to make this mouthwatering masterpiece right in your own kitchen!

Originating from the beautiful country of Greece, Pasticio has been a staple in Greek cuisine for centuries. It is often served as a main dish or as a side, and its versatility makes it a favorite among families and friends. The combination of rich flavors and tender layers of pastry creates a truly satisfying meal that is sure to impress.

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a moment to gather the necessary ingredients. To make a classic Greek Pasticio, you will need the following:

– 1 lb ground meat (beef, lamb, or a mixture of both)
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 cup frozen carrots
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 package of frozen pie crusts (2 crusts)

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the preparation process. Follow these simple steps to create your own Greek Pasticio:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.
3. Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, peas, and carrots. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, feta cheese, Greek yogurt, eggs, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Spread half of the meat mixture in the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish.
7. Pour the cheese mixture over the meat.
8. Top with the remaining meat mixture.
9. Roll out one of the pie crusts and place it over the filling, sealing the edges.
10. Roll out the second pie crust and place it on top of the first, trimming any excess dough.
11. Crimp the edges to seal the pie and make a vent for steam to escape.
12. Brush the top with a little water and sprinkle with sesame seeds or a sprinkle of oregano.
13. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
14. Allow the pie to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

And there you have it! Your homemade Greek Pasticio is ready to be enjoyed. This savory pie is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a taste of Greece. Buon appetito!