We Greeks are a happy people that love to sing and dance, as well as eat! And I know this to be true, because as I look back on my childhood, I can still recall all the festive Greek holidays and celebrations we used to enjoy. They were marvelous! Plus, all the scrumptious baking and cooking my mother and "Ya-Ya" my grandmother, would do to prepare for such elaborate feasts. Truly, it was a sight to behold, and one I shall never ever forget. As most Greek recipes are passed down for generations, from mother-to-daughter, or at large family gatherings, it's no wonder why my mother has accumulated so many delectable dishes down through the years.

Oftimes while traveling, I'm repeatedly asked the question, "Dino, what is your favorite Greek dish?" And more times than not, I respond by naming some great Greek dessert like baklava! But to be quite honest, they're all my favorite. That's why I asked my mother to share some of our family's delicious recipes, which she graciously consented to do. Since she was a great cook and loved to entertain, I thought her Greek Cookbook would be an excellent way to acquaint you with our family and our wonderful Greek heritage.

I hope you will enjoy preparing them, as well as eating them. So, come back every week to get a new recipe, and order one of my delicious 24 Karrot Cakes for dessert, good cooking and great eating!


Helen Kartsonakis

Fresh Ham Macaronada
(Greek: Hirino Yahni Makaronada)

6 lb. fresh ham
4 Tbsp. butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Dash of cinnamon
3 onions, chopped
2 (6 oz.) cans tomato paste

2 qt. water
3 sticks cinnamon
11/2 lb. macaroni
Browned butter
Grated cheese

Cut ham in 3 inch cubes. In skillet, brown meat in half the butter; add salt and pepper and dash of cinnamon. In a large casserole, brown onions in remaining butter until soft. Add meat, tomato paste, water, and cinnamon sticks. Simmer about 3 hours until sauce is thick and meat well done. Cook macaroni according to directions on package. Drain and empty into serving dish. Pour browned butter over macaroni; add grated cheese. Pour sauce and meat over all. Serve hot. Yield: 8 to 10 servings.

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Please call the number below to order your favorite 24 Karrot Cakes,
so the next bite can be yours.
800-775-DINO (3466)

417-239-2822
12 Downing Street - Hollister, MO 65672


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