Frequently Asked Questions
What is Greek Scordalia?
Scordalia is a traditional Greek sauce or dip celebrated for its rich, creamy texture and robust garlic flavor, typically made with potatoes or bread.
How many garlic cloves are in this recipe?
This recipe calls for 12 crushed garlic cloves to achieve its signature sharp flavor.
What is the base of this Scordalia?
This specific version uses a combination of one large boiled potato and half a loaf of white bread as the base.
How do I prepare the bread for the sauce?
Remove the crusts, cut the bread into small pieces, rinse under cold water, and squeeze out all excess moisture until it is fairly dry.
How long should I boil the potato?
Boil the peeled potato in salted water for about 15-20 minutes or until it is fork-tender.
What type of oil is recommended?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
Does this recipe use vinegar?
Yes, it uses a combination of 2 teaspoons of white vinegar and 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar.
Can I serve Scordalia immediately after making it?
It is recommended to refrigerate the sauce for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
How long does homemade Scordalia last?
This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
What should I serve with Scordalia?
It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, seafood, fresh vegetables, or crusty bread and crackers.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, the ingredients listed (potatoes, bread, garlic, lemon, oil, and vinegar) are plant-based, making it suitable for a vegan diet.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
What are the calories per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 125 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There is approximately 11.67g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
Each serving contains about 5.83g of carbohydrates.
What is the protein content?
Each serving provides about 0.83g of protein.
Should I use fresh lemon juice?
Yes, 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice is used to provide a zesty brightness.
Can I use a food processor?
Yes, a food processor is used to blend the ingredients until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
How long do I process the ingredients?
Process the ingredients for about 20-30 seconds until the mixture is completely smooth.
Is Scordalia served hot or cold?
It is traditionally served cold or at room temperature.
Can I adjust the seasoning?
Yes, you should adjust the seasoning to your personal taste after the initial processing.
What happens to the flavor over time?
When chilled, the garlic flavors deepen and the texture becomes even creamier.
Do I need to peel the potato?
Yes, the potato should be peeled before boiling and mashing for a smooth consistency.
What kind of bread is best?
Plain white bread is used in this recipe to ensure a neutral color and smooth texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, because it contains half a loaf of white bread, it is not gluten-free.
How many ingredients are required?
There are 7 main ingredients: potato, garlic, white bread, lemon juice, olive oil, white vinegar, and apple cider vinegar.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
Based on the nutritional facts provided, there is no added sugar in this recipe.
Can I use Scordalia as a dip?
Absolutely, it is frequently used as a delightful dip for fresh vegetables and crackers.
Why is it called Scordalia?
The name is derived from 'skordo,' the Greek word for garlic, which is the primary flavor profile of the dish.
Can I make this without a food processor?
While a food processor ensures maximum creaminess, you can traditionally make it using a mortar and pestle or by hand-mashing very thoroughly.