Malika Flavors

Malika Flavors Welcome to Malika Flavors! I’m Malika, patisserie chef sharing Mediterranean dessert recipes, tips & stories. Join our sweet baking community! 🍰💛

🌟 About Malika Flavors 🌟
At Malika Flavors, food is more than just nourishment—it’s a story, a tradition, and a celebration of culture. Founded by Malika, a passionate home baker and flavor enthusiast, this space brings together timeless recipes, creative twists, and vibrant dishes that reflect both heritage and innovation. From delicate pastries to bold savory creations, every bite is made with l

ove, authenticity, and a sprinkle of magic. Whether you're here for a comforting classic or an eye-catching dessert that’s trending, Malika Flavors is your go-to for mouthwatering inspiration and unforgettable taste.

Fried Calamari (Kalamarakia Tiganita)Crispy Greek-Style Squid with Lemon, Light Batter & Golden CrunchThe key is keeping...
06/18/2026

Fried Calamari (Kalamarakia Tiganita)
Crispy Greek-Style Squid with Lemon, Light Batter & Golden Crunch

The key is keeping the coating light and frying quickly so the squid stays tender inside while the outside becomes perfectly crisp.

Servings

Serves 4 people

Ingredients

For the Calamari
700 g fresh or thawed squid (cleaned)
120 g all-purpose flour
50 g cornstarch (for extra crispness)
1 teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For Frying
Neutral oil (sunflower or vegetable), enough for deep frying
For Serving
Lemon wedges
Fresh parsley, chopped
Tzatziki or garlic mayo (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Squid

Rinse the squid well and pat dry thoroughly.

Cut into:

Rings (for the body)
Small pieces (for tentacles)

Drying well is essential for crisp frying.

2. Prepare the Coating

In a bowl mix:

Flour
Cornstarch
Salt
Pepper
Paprika (optional)
3. Coat the Calamari

Toss squid pieces in the flour mixture until lightly coated.

Shake off excess flour—this keeps them crisp, not heavy.

4. Heat the Oil

Heat oil in a deep pan to 180°C / 350°F.

The oil must be hot enough so the squid fries quickly without absorbing oil.

5. Fry

Fry squid in small batches for 1–2 minutes only.

Do not overcook or it will become rubbery.

Remove when golden and crisp.

Place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

6. Serve

Serve immediately with:

Fresh lemon wedges
Chopped parsley
Sea salt sprinkle
Tzatziki or garlic dip

06/18/2026

Vanilla Custard Cake with Berry Filling
Soft Vanilla Layer Cake Filled with Silky Custard & Juicy Mixed Berries

Every slice offers the perfect balance of light vanilla sponge, creamy custard, and sweet-tart berries.

Servings

12 servings

Ingredients

For the Vanilla Cake
2½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
2½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened
1¼ cups (250 g) granulated sugar
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
For the Vanilla Custard
2½ cups (600 ml) whole milk
⅓ cup (65 g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (30 g) cornstarch
4 egg yolks
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter
For the Berry Filling
2 cups (300 g) mixed berries
Strawberries, diced
Blueberries
Raspberries
⅓ cup (65 g) granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
For the Whipped Cream Frosting
2 cups (480 ml) heavy whipping cream
¼ cup (30 g) powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Decoration
Fresh strawberries
Fresh blueberries
Fresh raspberries
Mint leaves
Powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Vanilla Cake

Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).

Grease and line two 20 cm (8-inch) round cake pans.

In a bowl whisk together:

Flour
Baking powder
Salt

In a separate large bowl beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Mix in vanilla extract.

Alternately add the flour mixture and milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.

Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.

Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Vanilla Custard

Heat milk in a saucepan until steaming.

In a bowl whisk together:

Sugar
Cornstarch
Egg yolks

Slowly whisk in the warm milk.

Return mixture to the saucepan.

Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thick and smooth.

Remove from heat.

Stir in:

Butter
Vanilla extract

Transfer to a bowl and cover the surface directly with plastic wrap.

Cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Berry Filling

Combine berries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan.

Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes.

Mix cornstarch and water into a slurry.

Add to the berry mixture.

Cook for another 2–3 minutes until thickened.

Cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until medium-stiff peaks form.

Keep refrigerated until needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate.

Spread a thick layer of vanilla custard over the cake.

Spoon the berry filling over the custard.

Place the second cake layer on top.

Frost the top and sides with whipped cream.

Step 6: Decorate

Arrange fresh berries on top.

Add mint leaves and a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Chill for at least 2 hours before slicing.

How to Serve

Serve chilled with:

Coffee
Espresso
Tea
Fresh berry coulis
Tips for the Best Vanilla Custard Cake
Chill the custard completely before assembling.
Use fresh, ripe berries for the brightest flavor.
Refrigerate the cake before slicing for neat layers.
Do not overwhip the cream.
For extra flavor, brush the cake layers with a light vanilla syrup.

KreatopitaTraditional Greek Meat Pie with Flaky Phyllo & Aromatic Spiced FillingThe combination of flaky golden phyllo a...
06/18/2026

Kreatopita
Traditional Greek Meat Pie with Flaky Phyllo & Aromatic Spiced Filling

The combination of flaky golden phyllo and a flavorful meat filling creates a comforting dish that is both rustic and elegant.

Servings

Serves 8–10 people

Ingredients

For the Filling
700 g ground beef, lamb, or a combination
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 spring onions, finely sliced
100 ml beef or chicken broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
150 g feta cheese, crumbled
2 eggs, lightly beaten
For the Phyllo Pastry
12 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
150 g melted butter or olive oil for brushing
For Topping
1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon milk
Sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened.

Add garlic and spring onions and cook for another minute.

Add the ground meat and cook until browned.

Stir in:

Tomato paste
Broth
Oregano
Cinnamon
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper

Simmer for 10–15 minutes until most of the liquid has evaporated.

Remove from heat.

Allow to cool slightly.

Mix in:

Parsley
Feta cheese
Beaten eggs
2. Prepare the Pie

Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F.

Grease a 33 x 23 cm (13 x 9 inch) baking dish.

Lay 6 sheets of phyllo in the dish, brushing each sheet lightly with melted butter or olive oil.

Allow some pastry to hang over the edges.

3. Add the Filling

Spread the meat mixture evenly over the phyllo base.

Fold any overhanging pastry inward.

Cover with the remaining phyllo sheets, brushing each layer with butter.

Tuck the edges neatly into the pan.

4. Finish the Top

Mix the egg yolk and milk.

Brush over the top layer.

Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.

Score the pie lightly into serving portions.

5. Bake

Bake for 45–50 minutes until:

Deep golden brown
Crisp and flaky
Fully cooked through
6. Rest

Allow the pie to rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

HortaTraditional Greek Wild Greens with Olive Oil & LemonA staple of the Mediterranean diet, Horta is enjoyed throughout...
06/18/2026

Horta
Traditional Greek Wild Greens with Olive Oil & Lemon

A staple of the Mediterranean diet, Horta is enjoyed throughout Greece as a side dish, appetizer, or light meal. Its beauty lies in its simplicity tender greens, fruity olive oil, and bright lemon combine to create a dish that is fresh, nourishing, and naturally delicious.

Servings

Serves 4 people

Ingredients

For the Horta
1 kg mixed leafy greens (dandelion greens, chicory, amaranth greens, beet greens, mustard greens, spinach, or Swiss chard)
1 teaspoon sea salt
Water, for boiling
For Serving
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 1–2 lemons
Lemon wedges
A pinch of sea salt (optional)

Instructions

1. Clean the Greens

Wash the greens thoroughly in several changes of cold water.

Remove any tough stems or damaged leaves.

Drain well.

2. Boil the Greens

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add the greens.

Cook for 10–20 minutes, depending on the type of greens used.

The greens should be tender but still vibrant.

3. Drain

Remove the greens using a slotted spoon or drain in a colander.

Allow excess water to drain completely.

Lightly squeeze if needed.

4. Season

Arrange the warm greens on a serving platter.

Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil.

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.

Add a little extra salt if desired.

5. Serve

Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled

Psito KotopouloTraditional Greek Roasted Chicken with Lemon, Garlic & HerbsThe chicken develops crispy skin while remain...
06/18/2026

Psito Kotopoulo
Traditional Greek Roasted Chicken with Lemon, Garlic & Herbs

The chicken develops crispy skin while remaining tender and succulent inside, and the pan juices create an irresistible lemon-herb sauce that is perfect for spooning over potatoes.

Servings

Serves 4–6 people

Ingredients

For the Chicken
1 whole chicken (about 1.8–2 kg)
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 2 lemons
Zest of 1 lemon
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
1½ teaspoons sea salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Roasting Pan
1 kg potatoes, cut into wedges
1 large onion, sliced
250 ml chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnish
Fresh parsley
Lemon wedges

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl combine:

Olive oil
Lemon juice
Lemon zest
Garlic
Oregano
Thyme
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper

Mix well.

2. Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

Rub the marinade all over the chicken, including under the skin where possible.

For best flavor, marinate for 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator.

3. Prepare the Roasting Pan

Preheat oven to 190°C / 375°F.

Place the potatoes and onion in a large roasting pan.

Drizzle with olive oil and toss lightly.

Pour in the chicken broth.

Place the chicken on top of the vegetables.

4. Roast

Roast for 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, basting occasionally with the pan juices.

The chicken is done when:

The skin is deep golden brown
The juices run clear
The internal temperature reaches 75°C / 165°F
5. Rest the Chicken

Transfer the chicken to a serving platter.

Allow it to rest for 10–15 minutes before carving.

This keeps the meat juicy.

6. Serve

Arrange the roasted potatoes around the chicken.

Spoon some of the lemon-herb pan juices over the top.

Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

Giouvarelakia (Greek Meatball Soup)Tender Beef & Rice Meatballs in a Silky Lemon-Egg BrothPopular throughout Greece, esp...
06/18/2026

Giouvarelakia (Greek Meatball Soup)
Tender Beef & Rice Meatballs in a Silky Lemon-Egg Broth

Popular throughout Greece, especially during cooler months, Giouvarelakia is the ultimate homemade meal that brings warmth and comfort to the table.

Servings

Serves 6 people

Ingredients

For the Meatballs
500 g ground beef
100 g long-grain rice, rinsed
1 small onion, finely grated
1 egg
3 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
1 teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Broth
1.5 liters chicken or beef broth
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 carrot, finely diced
1 celery stalk, finely diced
1 bay leaf
For the Avgolemono Sauce
2 large eggs
Juice of 2 lemons
1 cup hot broth from the soup
For Garnish
Fresh parsley
Fresh dill
Lemon wedges

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl combine:

Ground beef
Rice
Grated onion
Egg
Parsley
Dill
Salt
Pepper

Mix gently until combined.

Shape into small meatballs, about the size of a walnut.

2. Prepare the Broth

In a large pot combine:

Broth
Olive oil
Carrot
Celery
Bay leaf

Bring to a gentle simmer.

3. Cook the Meatballs

Carefully add the meatballs to the simmering broth.

Reduce heat to low.

Cover partially and cook for 30–35 minutes until the rice is tender and the meatballs are fully cooked.

Remove the bay leaf.

4. Make the Avgolemono

In a bowl whisk the eggs until frothy.

Gradually whisk in the lemon juice.

Slowly add the hot broth while whisking continuously to temper the eggs.

5. Finish the Soup

Remove the pot from the heat.

Slowly pour the avgolemono mixture into the soup while gently stirring.

Do not boil after adding the sauce.

Allow the soup to sit for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

6. Serve

Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, dill, and lemon wedges.

Chicken SouvlakiTraditional Greek Grilled Chicken Skewers with Lemon, Garlic & HerbsWhether served on skewers, wrapped i...
06/18/2026

Chicken Souvlaki
Traditional Greek Grilled Chicken Skewers with Lemon, Garlic & Herbs

Whether served on skewers, wrapped in warm pita bread, or paired with salad and tzatziki, this classic dish delivers the authentic taste of Greece in every bite.

Servings

Serves 4 to 6 people

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade
800 g boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 3 cm cubes
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 2 lemons
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
1 teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
For Serving
Warm pita bread
Tzatziki sauce
Sliced tomatoes
Sliced cucumber
Red onion slices
Lemon wedges
Fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl whisk together:

Olive oil
Lemon juice
Garlic
Oregano
Thyme
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper

Add the chicken cubes and toss until evenly coated.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

2. Prepare the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes.

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers.

Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.

3. Grill the Chicken

Preheat a grill, grill pan, or barbecue to medium-high heat.

Cook the skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally.

The chicken should be:

Golden brown
Lightly charred
Fully cooked through

The internal temperature should reach 75°C / 165°F.

4. Rest

Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes.

This helps keep the chicken juicy.

5. Serve

Serve immediately with warm pita bread, tzatziki, fresh vegetables, and lemon wedges.

PapoutsakiaTraditional Greek Stuffed Eggplants with Rich Meat Sauce & Creamy BéchamelThe combination of soft roasted egg...
06/18/2026

Papoutsakia
Traditional Greek Stuffed Eggplants with Rich Meat Sauce & Creamy Béchamel

The combination of soft roasted eggplant, savory tomato-meat filling, and creamy golden topping creates a deeply satisfying Mediterranean dish perfect for family meals and special occasions.

Servings

Serves 6 people

Ingredients

For the Eggplants
3 large eggplants
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Salt, to taste
For the Meat Filling
700 g ground beef or lamb
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
400 g crushed tomatoes
120 ml water or broth
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Béchamel Sauce
600 ml milk, warm
60 g butter
60 g flour
1 egg yolk
50 g grated kefalotyri or Parmesan
Pinch of nutmeg
Salt and white pepper, to taste
For Garnish
Extra grated cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Eggplants

Preheat oven to 200°C / 390°F.

Cut eggplants in half lengthwise.

Score the flesh in a crisscross pattern without cutting through the skin.

Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.

Bake for 25–30 minutes until soft and lightly golden.

Scoop out some flesh gently to create space for filling.

2. Prepare the Meat Sauce

Heat olive oil in a pan.

Add onion and cook for 5 minutes.

Add garlic and cook briefly.

Add minced meat and brown well.

Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.

Add crushed tomatoes, water, cinnamon, allspice, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

Simmer for 30 minutes until thick and rich.

Remove bay leaf.

3. Make the Béchamel

Melt butter in a saucepan.

Add flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes.

Gradually add warm milk, whisking constantly until thick.

Remove from heat.

Stir in egg yolk, cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Mix until smooth.

4. Assemble Papoutsakia

Place baked eggplants in a baking dish.

Fill each eggplant with meat sauce.

Top generously with béchamel.

Sprinkle with extra cheese if desired.

5. Bake

Bake at 180°C / 350°F for 25–30 minutes until:

Golden on top
Bubbling at the edges
Fully set
6. Rest Before Serving

Let rest for 10–15 minutes before serving.

LahanodolmadesTraditional Greek Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Rice, Herbs & Avgolemono SauceOften served during family gath...
06/18/2026

Lahanodolmades
Traditional Greek Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Rice, Herbs & Avgolemono Sauce

Often served during family gatherings and winter meals, lahanodolmades are warm, nourishing, and deeply satisfying.

Servings

Serves 6–8 people

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls
1 large white cabbage
250 g long-grain rice (washed and drained)
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 spring onions, chopped
½ cup fresh dill, chopped
½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
¼ cup fresh mint, chopped (optional but traditional)
100 ml extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional (Meat Version)
400 g ground beef or lamb
For Cooking
1 liter vegetable or chicken broth
Juice of 1 lemon (for cooking liquid)
For Avgolemono Sauce
2 eggs
Juice of 2 lemons
1 ladle of hot cooking broth

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage

Remove the core of the cabbage.

Place the whole cabbage in a large pot of boiling water.

Boil for 8–10 minutes, gently peeling off leaves as they soften.

Set leaves aside to cool.

2. Make the Filling

In a large bowl combine:

Rice
Onion
Spring onions
Dill
Parsley
Mint
Olive oil
Salt
Pepper

If using meat, add it now and mix well.

3. Fill the Leaves

Place one cabbage leaf on a flat surface.

Trim the thick vein if needed.

Add 1–2 tablespoons of filling.

Fold sides inward and roll tightly.

Repeat with all leaves.

4. Arrange in the Pot

Line the bottom of a wide pot with leftover cabbage leaves.

Place rolls tightly in layers, seam-side down.

5. Cook

Pour broth over the rolls until just covered.

Add lemon juice.

Place a plate on top to keep them compressed.

Simmer gently for 60–75 minutes.

6. Prepare Avgolemono Sauce

In a bowl whisk eggs until frothy.

Add lemon juice and mix.

Slowly add hot broth while whisking constantly (to temper).

Remove pot from heat and pour avgolemono over rolls.

Gently swirl the pot—do not boil after adding sauce.

7. Rest

Let sit for 10–15 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Lahanodolmades

Serve warm with:

Extra lemon wedges
Greek yogurt
Crusty bread
Horiatiki salad
Olives and feta
Tips for Perfect Lahanodolmades

Do not overfill rolls they expand while cooking.

Keep rolls tightly packed to prevent opening.

Always temper the egg-lemon sauce slowly.

Use fresh herbs for authentic Greek flavor.

Cook gently to keep leaves tender.

Greek KolokithokeftedesCrispy Zucchini and Feta Fritters with Fresh HerbsPerfect as an appetizer, side dish, or light me...
06/18/2026

Greek Kolokithokeftedes
Crispy Zucchini and Feta Fritters with Fresh Herbs

Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal, these fritters are traditionally served with cool tzatziki and a squeeze of fresh lemon. Their combination of fresh zucchini, aromatic herbs, and tangy feta captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking.

Servings

Makes 18–20 fritters

Ingredients

For the Fritters
4 medium zucchini (about 800 g), grated
1 teaspoon sea salt
200 g feta cheese, crumbled
1 small onion, finely grated
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 large eggs
120 g all-purpose flour
50 g breadcrumbs
3 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
3 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
½ teaspoon black pepper
For Frying
Olive oil or vegetable oil, as needed
For Serving
Tzatziki sauce
Lemon wedges
Fresh dill or parsley

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini

Place the grated zucchini in a colander.

Sprinkle with the salt and toss.

Let sit for 20 minutes.

Using your hands or a clean kitchen towel, squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

This step is essential for crispy fritters.

2. Make the Mixture

In a large bowl combine:

Drained zucchini
Feta cheese
Onion
Garlic
Eggs
Flour
Breadcrumbs
Dill
Parsley
Mint
Black pepper

Mix until a thick mixture forms.

If too wet, add a little extra breadcrumb.

3. Shape the Fritters

Take about 2 tablespoons of mixture and shape into small patties.

Place on a tray while preparing the remaining mixture.

4. Fry the Fritters

Heat about 1 cm of oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Fry the fritters in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.

Transfer to paper towels to drain.

5. Serve

Arrange on a serving platter.

Serve warm with tzatziki, lemon wedges, and fresh herbs.

How to Serve Kolokithokeftedes

Serve as:

A mezze appetizer
A vegetarian main course
A side dish for grilled meats or fish

They pair beautifully with:

Tzatziki
Horiatiki salad
Fava Santorinis
Warm pita bread
Kalamata olives

Address

Edmond, OK

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