Tsiknopempti: A Vegan Twist on a Greek Tradition
Tsiknopempti or "Smoky Thursday", is a beloved Greek tradition celebrated the Thursday before Clean Monday, marking the beginning of the Lenten fast. Traditionally, this day is associated with the smell of grilling meat, but with a little creativity, vegans can fully participate in the festivities.
While the traditional focus might be on grilled meats, Tsiknopempti is more than just about the food. It's about gathering with loved ones, enjoying delicious food, and celebrating the start of a new season.
Here are a few ideas for a vegan Tsiknopempti celebration:
Vegan Grilling:
- Grilled vegetables: Skewer colourful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and mushrooms for a vibrant and flavourful vegan kabab.
- Mushroom gyros: Experience the savoury delight of this mushroom gyros! I've transformed this classic Greek favourite with tender, marinated mushrooms, perfectly seasoned and grilled to create a satisfyingly meaty texture.
- Vegan sausages: There are many delicious vegan sausages available on the market. Grill them alongside your vegetables for a smoky flavour.
- Vegan sieftalies: If you are based in Cyprus, you need to try sheftalies - a Cypriot delicacy - that we are lucky to have a vegan version of by Amanamu!
- Tofu: is a must addition to your feast, with my souvlaki tofu and Cypriot souvlakia you will not be disappointed!
Delicious Vegan Appetizers:
- Vegan dips: hummus, tirokafteri, tahinosalata and tzatziki are all delicious and easy-to-make appetizers.
- Stuffed grape leaves-dolmadakia: These classic Greek appetizers can easily be made vegan with rice and vegetables.
- Pitta bread with vegan spreads: Enjoy grilled pitta bread or bread with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of oregano, and serve with olives.
Don't Forget the Desserts:
- Baklava rolls: Indulge in a sweet treat with a delicious baklava made with walnuts and phyllo pastry.
- Purekkia: a Cypriot pastry dessert, traditionally stuffed with anari cheese (fresh mild whey cheese). For my vegan version I'm using silken tofu, that resembles perfectly the texture of anari!
Remember, Tsiknopempti is about more than just the food. It's about spending time with loved ones, sharing stories, and enjoying the company of others. So, gather your friends and family, put on some traditional Greek music, and celebrate this special occasion with a delicious and compassionate vegan feast.
Happy Tsiknopempti!
