Skordalia Recipe

There’s something utterly transformative about turning a humble potato and garlic into a delicious Greek-inspired skordalia—it’s like a creamy, tangy revelation just waiting to rock your snack game.

I love the bold and satisfying flavors of skordalia, a traditional Greek dish that combines the creamy goodness of potatoes with the robust kick of garlic. My recipe uses extra virgin olive oil for its health benefits, while white wine vinegar adds a tangy finish, perfectly complemented by salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Enjoy this nutrient-rich dish that’s both comforting and flavorful.

Skordalia Recipe Ingredients

• Potatoes: Rich in carbohydrates, great for energy and fiber.
• Garlic: Known for its bold flavor and immune-boosting properties.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats, adds richness and smooth texture.
• White Wine Vinegar: Provides a tangy, acidic balance, enhancing flavors.

Skordalia Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 5-6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4-6 cloves of garlic, minced
• 120 ml (1/2 cup) extra virgin olive oil
• 60 ml (1/4 cup) white wine vinegar
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Water (for boiling potatoes)

How to Make this Skordalia Recipe

1. Peel and dice the potatoes into evenly sized cubes to ensure they cook evenly.

2. Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Add a pinch of salt to the water.

3. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

4. While the potatoes are boiling, mince the garlic cloves finely and set them aside.

5. Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and return them to the pot. Allow them to cool slightly.

6. Using a potato masher or fork, mash the potatoes until smooth and lump-free.

7. Gradually add the minced garlic to the mashed potatoes, stirring well to combine.

8. Slowly incorporate the extra virgin olive oil and white wine vinegar into the potato mixture, mixing until the skordalia is smooth and creamy.

9. Season the mixture generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

10. Serve the skordalia at room temperature or slightly chilled as a dip or spread, accompanied by warm bread or vegetables.

Skordalia Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Vegetable peeler
2. Cutting board
3. Chef’s knife
4. Large pot
5. Measuring cup
6. Potato masher or fork
7. Colander or sieve
8. Mixing spoon
9. Bowl or serving dish

FAQ

• What is Skordalia? Skordalia is a traditional Greek dip or spread made primarily with potatoes and garlic, emulsified with olive oil and vinegar, providing a rich and garlicky flavor.
• Can I use a different type of potato? While the recipe specifies medium potatoes, you can use any starchy potato, such as Russets, for a smoother texture.
• How do I adjust the garlic intensity? If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, start with fewer cloves and increase according to taste.
• Can I make Skordalia ahead of time? Yes, Skordalia can be made a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
• What can I serve with Skordalia? Skordalia pairs well with grilled meats, fish, vegetables, or simply as a dip with pita bread or crusty bread.
• Can I substitute the olive oil with another oil? Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its flavor, but a mild tasting oil like sunflower or canola can be used as a substitute though it may alter the traditional taste.
• How can I make Skordalia smoother? For a smoother consistency, ensure the potatoes are well mashed and use a hand mixer or food processor to blend the ingredients thoroughly.

Skordalia Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Medium potatoes: You can substitute with equal amounts of sweet potatoes or cauliflower for a different texture and flavor.
• Garlic: Substitute with garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon for every clove) or roasted garlic for a milder flavor.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Can be replaced with avocado oil or sunflower oil for a neutral taste.
• White wine vinegar: Use apple cider vinegar or lemon juice as alternatives for a similar tanginess.

Pro Tips

1. Consistency Matters For a smoother texture, consider passing the mashed potatoes through a fine sieve or using a ricer before adding the garlic and other ingredients. This ensures an extra creamy final product.

2. Garlic Infusion To mellow the sharpness of the garlic and add depth, lightly sauté the minced garlic in a bit of the olive oil over low heat for a minute or two before incorporating it into the mashed potatoes.

3. Flavor Boost Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice along with the white wine vinegar to brighten the flavors and add a hint of acidity that complements the garlic.

4. Herb Addition Consider adding fresh chopped herbs like parsley or dill to the mixture for a fresh, aromatic touch that pairs well with the garlicky flavor.

5. Texture Variation For a slightly chunky texture, reserve some of the diced potatoes, mash them roughly, and fold them back into the mixture after achieving the desired creaminess. This can add an interesting contrast.