Britain’s Greek Supermarket

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Products

What if my tin or can arrives with dents or scratches?

We take great care to ensure your products arrive in excellent condition. However, sometimes tins or cans may get minor dents or scratches during transit.

Please note:

  • Superficial damage to the packaging (such as dents or scratches) does not affect the safety, quality, or usability of the food inside.

  • Because of this, we do not offer refunds, replacements, or compensation for tins or cans that have superficial dents or scratches only.

  • If you believe the damage has affected the product inside (for example, if the tin is leaking or the seal is broken), please contact us immediately with clear photos showing the damage. We will then assess the issue and advise you accordingly.

  • For your own safety, do not consume any product if you notice signs of spoilage, leakage, or contamination.

We appreciate your understanding that food safety and product quality are our top priorities.

How does the Buy 1 Get 1 Free offer work?

1. How does the Buy 1 Get 1 Free offer work?
When you purchase one eligible item, you can receive a second one of the same item for free. To take advantage of this offer, you must add both items to your shopping basket.

2. Why didn’t I receive my free item?
If you only added one item to your basket, the free item will not be included in your order. You need to add two of the same items to your basket, and the discount will automatically apply at checkout.

3. What if I forgot to add the second item?
Unfortunately, we cannot add the free item to your order after it has been placed. Please make sure you’ve added both items to your basket before completing your purchase.

4. Do I need a promo code for this offer?
No, you don’t need a promo code. Simply add two of the same items to your basket, and the discount will apply automatically.

5. Can I mix and match products?
No, the Buy 1 Get 1 Free offer only applies to the same product. You must add two of the same item to your basket to receive the discount.

6. Can I combine this offer with other promotions?
No, the Buy 1 Get 1 Free offer cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions unless specifically stated.

7. What happens if the item goes out of stock after I’ve placed my order?
In the rare case that the item goes out of stock, we will notify you and work with you to find an alternative or provide a refund.

Why didn’t I receive my free item? (Buy 1 Get 1 Free offers)

If you only added one item to your basket, the free item will not be included in your order. You need to add two of the same items to your basket, and the discount will automatically apply at checkout.

Can I refreeze thawed items?

Refreezing thawed food is safe if the food has been handled properly and kept at a safe temperature (below 8°C according to the UK’s Food Standards Agency) before refreezing. However, there may be a slight loss in flavour due to moisture lost during the thawing process, especially in delicate items like seafood or ready-to-eat foods.

Although you see to thaw and to defrost used almost interchangeably, there is a difference. To defrost means simply to release from the frozen state, while to thaw as a transitive verb means to cause to become free from the effects of cold (hardness, stiffness, numbness) through exposure to warmth. A frozen product soft to the touch does not necessarily mean it’s been fully defrosted.

My order arrived with solid gel packs, but the product feels soft. Is it defrosted and can I refreeze it?

Understanding Product State and Temperature:

  • Solid Gel Packs: The presence of solid gel packs is a good sign. It indicates that the internal temperature of the packaging has likely been maintained well below the freezing point throughout transit. This helps in keeping the products at a safe temperature.
  • Soft to the Touch: Products feeling soft to the touch does not necessarily mean they have fully defrosted. Meat and other frozen foods can begin to soften before they actually enter the “danger zone” (8°C to 63°C according to the UK’s Food Standards Agency or 4°C to 60°C according to USDA), where bacterial growth becomes a concern. Softening can occur at temperatures that are still safe, such as just below freezing.

Safety and Refreezing:

  • Refreezing Guidelines: If the gel packs are mostly solid and the product has remained chilled (even if soft), it is generally safe to refreeze the product without cooking it first. The solid state of the gel packs suggests the product was kept out of the danger zone.
  • Quality Consideration: Although safe, refreezing may affect the texture and quality of the product due to ice crystals that may have formed and then partially melted. This is more noticeable in delicate items like fish or finely sliced meats.

Best Practices for Handling Deliveries:

  1. Immediate Inspection: Upon delivery, immediately check the state of the gel packs.
  2. Feel the Package: If the product feels cold to the touch, similar to how it would feel in your refrigerator, it is likely that it has been kept at a safe temperature.
  3. Refreezing: If the product is soft but cold, and the gel packs are solid, it is safe to refreeze.
What is Moussaka?

Moussaka is a beloved dish in Greek cuisine, and it’s also popular in other countries of the Eastern Mediterranean and the Balkans. It consists of layered aubergine (eggplant), meat sauce, and a creamy béchamel or custard topping. The meat sauce is usually made from minced lamb or beef and is flavoured with various herbs and spices like cinnamon, oregano, and sometimes nutmeg. Some versions of the dish also include layers of thinly sliced potatoes.

To prepare moussaka, the aubergine slices are often fried or baked until tender. The meat sauce is cooked separately, often including onions, garlic, and tomatoes in addition to the minced meat. Once the aubergine and meat sauce are prepared, they’re layered in a deep baking dish. The topmost layer is usually a béchamel sauce, made from butter, flour, and milk, often enriched with eggs or cheese. This assembled dish is then baked until the top layer turns golden and the ingredients meld into a harmonious, richly flavoured casserole.

Moussaka is often enjoyed as a main course and is frequently accompanied by a simple salad. It can be served hot or at room temperature and is even said to taste better the next day, once the flavours have had more time to meld.

Given its status as a staple of Greek cuisine, moussaka has always been an excellent addition to the range of authentic Greek foods and experiences we offer through GreekMarket.co.uk. It’s a dish that encapsulates the hearty and flavourful essence of Greek home cooking.

What is Pastitsio?

Pastitsio is a classic Greek dish that is often described as a Greek version of lasagne. It consists of layered pasta, typically long tubular pasta like bucatini or penne, a meat sauce usually made from minced beef or lamb, and a creamy béchamel sauce. The dish is seasoned with various herbs and spices, including cinnamon and nutmeg, which add a distinctively Greek flavour.

To prepare pastitsio, the pasta is first boiled until it’s al dente and often mixed with a bit of cheese and egg to help the layers stick together. The meat sauce, similar to a Bolognese, is prepared by cooking minced meat with onions, garlic, and tomatoes, and it’s usually seasoned with cinnamon, salt, and pepper. The béchamel sauce is made from butter, flour, and milk, and is seasoned with nutmeg.

Once all the components are ready, the dish is assembled in a deep baking dish. A layer of pasta is placed at the bottom, followed by the meat sauce, another layer of pasta, and finally, the béchamel sauce on top. The dish is then baked in the oven until the top layer becomes golden and slightly crispy.

Pastitsio is a hearty dish that’s often served at family gatherings, celebrations, and festive occasions in Greece. It’s beloved for its rich, comforting layers and the blend of flavours that make it uniquely Greek.

Given its popularity and representation of Greek culinary traditions, pastitsio has been included in our offerings at GreekMarket.co.uk, serving as a hearty meal that encapsulates the warmth and richness of Greek cuisine.

What is Gemista?

Gemista, also spelled “Yemista,” is a traditional Greek dish featuring stuffed vegetables. The word “gemista” translates to “stuffed” in English. The most commonly used vegetables for this dish are tomatoes and peppers, although you can also use aubergines and courgettes.

The vegetables are hollowed out, and the scooped-out flesh is usually reserved and incorporated into the stuffing. The filling often consists of rice mixed with various herbs and spices, and occasionally minced meat is added. Once the hollowed-out vegetables are filled with the rice mixture, they are arranged in a baking tray. To keep them moist during baking, olive oil, water, or tomato sauce may be added. The dish is then baked until the vegetables become tender and the rice is fully cooked.

Gemista can be enjoyed either hot or at room temperature and is often served with a side of feta cheese or Greek yoghurt. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily customised to cater to different dietary preferences.

Given its authentic nature and adaptability, Gemista has always been an excellent addition to the range of Greek culinary experiences we offer through GreekMarket.co.uk. It encapsulates the essence of Greek home cooking and utilises seasonal ingredients.

What is mastiha (mastic)?

Mastiha, also known as mastic, is a resin obtained from the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus var. chia) primarily found on the Greek island of Chios. The resin is collected by making small incisions in the bark, allowing the sap to drip out and harden into translucent droplets. Once harvested, these droplets are cleaned and can be used in various forms, including as a chewing gum, a spice, or as a flavouring agent.

Mastiha has a unique, slightly piney flavour with a hint of sweetness, and it is used in a wide range of culinary and medicinal applications. In Greek cuisine, mastiha is used to flavour baked goods, liqueurs, candies, and even some savory dishes. It is also a key ingredient in certain traditional Greek spirits like Mastiha, a liqueur that can be served as an aperitif or digestif.

Beyond its culinary uses, mastiha has been prized for its medicinal properties for centuries. It has been shown to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant qualities, and it is used in various forms for digestive issues, skin conditions, and dental health.

Given its unique flavour and various applications, mastiha makes for a fascinating and authentic addition to our selection of Greek products on GreekMarket.co.uk. It embodies the diverse culinary and medicinal traditions of Greece, and offers our customers a taste of something genuinely unique to Greek culture.

What is Mandolato?

Mandolato is a traditional Greek confection that originated from the Ionian Islands, particularly from Corfu. It is a type of nougat made from honey, sugar, egg whites, and almonds or other nuts. The texture can vary from chewy to brittle, depending on the specific recipe and cooking time. Mandolato is often flavoured with vanilla or citrus zest to add an extra layer of complexity to its taste.

The basic process of making Mandolato involves whipping egg whites into a frothy meringue and then combining them with a mixture of boiled honey and sugar. Nuts are then added to the mixture, which is poured into a mold lined with edible rice paper or wafer. Once it has cooled and set, it’s cut into bars or squares for serving.

Mandolato is a popular treat during holidays and special occasions in Greece and is often found at local festivals, fairs, and traditional markets. Due to its rich taste and high-energy content, it’s considered a festive treat rather than an everyday snack.

The confection has some similarities to Italian torrone or the French nougat, but its unique blend of ingredients and regional variations make it distinctly Greek. Given its traditional significance and rich, nutty flavour, Mandolato has been an excellent addition to our selection of authentic Greek products at GreekMarket.co.uk. It’s a treat that not only satisfies a sweet tooth but also offers a taste of Greek heritage.

What is Pasteli?

Pasteli is a traditional Greek confection made primarily from sesame seeds and honey, although variations may include additional ingredients like nuts or dried fruit. This sweet treat has a chewy or crunchy texture, depending on how long it’s cooked and how much honey is used. Pasteli often comes in the form of bars or small squares and is sometimes sprinkled with a bit of sea salt to enhance its flavors.

The basic process of making Pasteli involves toasting sesame seeds and then mixing them with warm honey to form a sticky mixture. This mixture is then spread flat onto a surface, allowed to cool, and cut into pieces. The result is a simple yet delicious and nutritious snack that is rich in antioxidants, minerals, and healthy fats.

Pasteli is often enjoyed on its own, but it can also be used as a topping for yogurt or incorporated into various desserts. Because of its long shelf life, it makes a convenient snack for on-the-go or as a quick energy booster. It is a popular item at Greek festivals and is often given as a treat during holidays and special occasions.

GreekMarket.co.uk being a cultural hub for everything Greek, has added Pasteli to its product lineup since day one. It encapsulates the simplicity and richness of Greek culinary tradition and offers a genuinely Greek experience to our customers.

What is Tahini?

Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds, and it’s a staple ingredient in various cuisines, particularly in Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and North African cooking. While not exclusively Greek, tahini is also commonly used in Greek cuisine, often appearing in sauces, spreads, and desserts. The paste has a creamy texture and a nutty, slightly bitter taste.

To make tahini, sesame seeds are usually hulled, toasted, and then ground into a paste. The end product can vary in consistency from quite thick to somewhat runny, depending on the grinding process and the addition of any oils. Pure tahini consists solely of sesame seeds, but some commercial varieties may contain added oil or salt.

In Greek cuisine, tahini is often mixed with honey or sugar to create a sweet spread, and it can be used as a filling for various pastries. It is also used in savory dishes and sauces, often combined with lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. For example, it may be used in dips or as a dressing for grilled vegetables and salads.

Tahini is rich in nutrients, including healthy fats, protein, and various vitamins and minerals. It’s also a good source of antioxidants and has been associated with various health benefits, such as improving heart health and reducing inflammation.

Given its versatility and nutritional benefits, tahini has always been a wonderful addition to the GreekMarket.co.uk selection of Greek and Mediterranean products.

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