Pitaroudia

Pitaroudia, a dish traditional to the islands of the Dodecanese and specifically to Rhodes, is a wonderful meze for vegetarians. In essence, pitaroudia is a chickpea meatball dish, is one of the most delicious island appetizers and is made in a variety of ways. Some are based on chickpeas, others on zucchini or mushrooms, among the long list of legumes and vegetables that can be shaped into meatballs and fried or even oven-baked. Pitaroudia is excellent with local wine, beer or tsipouro and can be eaten hot or cold. They are served with a salad made from local ingredients, usually fried eggplant, French fries, or tzatziki.