Inspired by Tradition
My Astoria Kitchen began as a humble instagram account in 2020 where I shared my cooking.
During that time I realized how special my spice cabinet was to me and how it was the backbone of my cooking. But not everyone loves to cook and you don’t need cabinets filled with obscure ingredients to make delicious meals. So, I wanted to create a classic spice blend based on my Greek heritage to share with others. A blend that was simple and approachable with traditional flavors that can be added to almost anything.
I wanted it to be in a glass jar that would be out on your counter, right next to the stove. No rummaging through the spice rack (although, sure, sometimes that’s still necessary). I didn’t want someone to feel bogged down by tiny plastic containers. Instead, you can order a refill packet and fill up your jar. Cooking is necessary and it shouldn’t feel overwhelming.
I hope my spice mix and recipes inspire you in the kitchen!
I was taught how to cook by both my mother (who grew up in Astoria) and grandmother (who immigrated to Astoria from Greece in the 1950’s). I have a true love of rustic, home cooking and believe that the best recipes are simple.
Often it feels like we are losing the traditions and the simplicity of life that previous generations had. I think that the kitchen is a place where we can recapture a life we may have never had, but miss.
Inspired by my grandmother, Yiayia, and the incredible neighborhood I live in, Astoria, I decided to create My Astoria Kitchen to help others connect back to their own traditions in the kitchen.
My blend uses ingredients sourced from Greek Markets here in Astoria, NY.
The tiny volcanic island of Nisyros, in the Aegean Sea, is my family’s ancestral homeland. It is a simple place, where time moves slowly. Men sit at the cafenio and women chat in the courtyards. The beach is covered in smooth black rocks, and the water is so salty you float.
