Portokalopita (orange cake)

portokalopita_(orange_cake)

Greek cuisine is known for its rich and diverse flavors, and one such dish that has become increasingly popular in recent years is the Portokalopita or Greek orange cake. This sweet and moist cake is a perfect dessert for any occasion and is especially loved for its unique blend of flavors that is sure to tantalize the taste buds of anyone who tries it.

The origin of the Portokalopita can be traced back to the humble ingredients of the traditional Greek kitchen. With the abundance of oranges in the country, and the Greek love for sweet dishes, it was only natural that the fruit found its way into the local cuisine. The recipe for this cake is relatively simple, yet the flavors are complex enough to delight even the most discerning palate.

Portokalopita is a cake that is not only recognizable by its name, but also by its unique appearance. It is a spongy cake that is soaked in a sweet syrup made from oranges, which gives it its distinctive taste and aroma. The cake is then topped with a generous layer of creamy custard, which adds a smooth contrast to its tangy citrus flavors.

The cake is typically made using traditional Greek ingredients such as Greek yogurt, honey, and semolina flour. However, it is the use of fresh oranges as the dominant ingredient that makes this cake such a standout. The zesty and refreshing flavors of the oranges are what give the cake its distinct Greek character.

Many Greek households have their own recipe for the Portokalopita, which has been passed down from generation to generation. However, the basic ingredients of the cake remain the same, with variations in the ratio of ingredients used to achieve the perfect consistency and flavor. Some recipes use a combination of orange juice and zest, while others use only the juice. Some recipes call for the use of mastic, a resin harvested from the gum tree that is used in many Greek desserts to give them an exotic flavor.

Preparing a Greek Portokalopita is a labor of love that requires patience and attention to detail. The cake is delicate and needs to be handled with care during each stage of its preparation. Getting the right texture for the cake and making sure that the syrup is adequately soaked is the key to making an excellent cake.

In conclusion, Portokalopita is a delicious Greek cake that is perfect for any occasion. Its unique flavor and appearance are unmistakably Greek and make it a standout dish in any dessert menu. With its perfect blend of tangy orange flavors and creamy custard topping, this cake is sure to become a favorite among anyone with a sweet tooth. So why not try making this treat for yourself and see why it has become one of the most popular Greek desserts around the world.

Ingredients:

-1 cup butter, softened -1 1/2 cups sugar -4 eggs -2 cups flour -1 tbsp baking powder -1/4 cup orange juice -1/4 cup brandy -1 tbsp orange zest -1/2 cup Greek yogurt -1/2 cup semolina -1/2 cup ground almonds -1/2 cup golden raisins -1/4 tsp salt

Syrup: -1 1/2 cups water -1 1/2 cups sugar -3 strips orange zest -1/2 cup fresh orange juice -2 tbsp brandy

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

  2. Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.

  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to butter mixture, alternating with orange juice and brandy.

  4. Stir in orange zest, Greek yogurt, semolina, ground almonds and raisins.

  5. Pour batter into prepared pan, and bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  6. In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, and orange zest strips. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.

  7. Remove from heat, and stir in orange juice and brandy.

  8. Using a fork or skewer, poke holes all over the cake. Pour syrup over the cake while it’s still warm.

  9. Allow cake to cool in the pan. Cut into squares and enjoy!