The Greek culinary scene is celebrating another international accolade, as TasteAtlas, the online global food encyclopedia, has named kontosouvli the world’s best pork dish. This slow-roasted, spit-fired delicacy has taken the top spot in TasteAtlas’s latest ranking, solidifying Greece’s position as a culinary powerhouse.
Kontosouvli, traditionally made with large chunks of pork marinated in a blend of herbs and spices, is cooked on a rotisserie, similar to gyros or souvlaki. The marinade typically features garlic, oregano, thyme, rosemary, paprika, olive oil, lemon juice, and red wine, creating a rich, flavorful crust and a tender, juicy interior. The meat is served in thick slices, often accompanied by pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a refreshing Greek salad.
This isn’t the first time Greek cuisine has been recognized by TasteAtlas. Last year, kontosouvli ranked 8th on their list of best pork dishes, while gourounopoula (roast suckling pig) came in 11th. This year, gourounopoula also made the list, securing the 48th position. This traditional Messinian dish features a whole suckling pig roasted on a spit for approximately ten hours, resulting in incredibly tender meat and crispy skin.
While TasteAtlas celebrates these Greek culinary gems, it has also highlighted some lesser-known dishes in the past. Previous rankings have included two other Greek dishes among their list of the world’s 100 worst, sparking debate and discussion among food enthusiasts. However, the latest recognition of kontosouvli as the world’s best pork dish undoubtedly reinforces the global appeal and enduring popularity of Greek cuisine. This accolade is likely to draw even more culinary tourists to Greece, eager to experience the authentic flavors of this now world-renowned dish.