Fresh, juicy tomatoes paired with tangy feta cheese, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, complete this delectable ensemble. Often garnished with oregano and olives, Dakos offers a sensory experience that transports you straight to the heart of Crete.

Fun Facts About Ingredients

Dakos is a traditional Cretan dish featuring three main ingredients: barley rusk, feta cheese, and olive oil. Barley rusk provides a nutritious, fiber-rich base with a crunchy texture, while feta cheese adds a tangy, creamy richness packed with calcium and protein.

Extra virgin olive oil, known for its heart-healthy fats and antioxidants, enhances the dish’s flavors and adds moisture. Together, these ingredients create a delicious and nutritious meal that highlights the best of Greek cuisine.

Historical Background of Dakos

Dakos, a traditional Cretan dish, originated in the 1950s in Rethymno at a tavern owned by a man nicknamed “The Owl.” (Koukouvagia). Known for its simple yet flavorful combination of barley rusk, fresh tomatoes, and savory cheese, dakos quickly became a popular meze in the region.

The tavern’s reputation for hospitality and delicious food helped spread the fame of dakos beyond Rethymno. Today, it holds cultural significance in Crete, embodying the spirit of sharing and community in Cretan cuisine.

Mastering the Art of Dakos

To create the perfect meze for raki, soak barley rusk lightly to achieve the right texture, balancing softness and crunch. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients like vegetables, feta cheese, and extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. Balance the dish with proper seasoning, adding salt, dried oregano, or other herbs to taste. Personalize while respecting traditional roots for a delicious outcome.

Ingredients

For the Base:

• 1 barley bun, cut in half
• Olive oil for drizzling

For the Topping and Serving:

• 1 ripe tomato
• 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 pinch salt
• Pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon basil, finely chopped
• Fresh thyme
• 1/2 spring onion, finely chopped
• 100gr Feta cheese, cut into pieces
• Sliced olives
• Oregano for garnishing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Barley Rusk:

1. Start by placing the two halves of the barley bun on separate plates, outer side down. This will allow them to soak properly without becoming overly soggy.

Making the Tomato Mixture:

2. Cut the tomato in half. Grate one half into a bowl, ensuring you capture all the juice. Dice the other half into small pieces for added texture.
3. In the bowl with the grated tomato, mix in white wine vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, pepper, chopped basil, and chopped thyme until everything is well combined.

Assembling the Dakos:

4. Spoon the tomato mixture generously over the barley buns, allowing it to soak in slightly.
5. Add the diced tomato, finely chopped onion, and pieces of feta cheese on top. Drizzle with olive oil to enhance the flavors.

Final Garnishing:

6. Garnish your dakos with sliced olives, a sprinkle of oregano, and additional pepper if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors of Crete!

Cretan Cuisine Recipes CookBook

For more Cretan Cuisine recipes and Tips about the fascinating food tradition of Crete, consider buying the ebook A Taste Journey to Crete. The “Taste Journey to Crete” ebook offers a delightful exploration of Crete’s rich gastronomic heritage, featuring authentic recipes such as Kalitsounia, Sfakianopita, and Gammopilafo. Perfect for food enthusiasts, this collection brings the flavors of Crete to your kitchen with easy-to-follow instructions and captivating stories behind each dish. Discover it here

Serving Suggestions and Tips

To elevate your dakos experience, pair it with Cretan wine or ouzo and a selection of Mediterranean delights such as olives, tzatziki, and grilled vegetables. Enhance your recipe by adjusting the barley rusk soaking time and choosing the freshest, seasonal tomatoes. For a personal touch, explore variations by adding fresh herbs, Mediterranean toppings, or a hint of spice. Let every bite be a celebration of Cretan flavors!