Greece
Greece or formerly known as Hellas, is Europe’s southern most country & it is divided in three geographical regions : the mainland, the Islands & Peloponnese. With a population of 10,761,523, Greek is the official language spoken in the Hellenic Republic. Greece is made up of 13 states with Athens, the historic capital situated on what is known to be Europe’s longest coastline. The coastline spans across : the Aegean sea, Sea of Crete, the Mediterranean sea & finally the Ionian sea, a total of 18,000km of coastline.
What Did The Ancient Greeks Eat?
Ancient Greeks were known for having a strong civilization and an incredible culture. Aside from that, they were also known for their rather unique perspectives on food. The culinary tradition of the people in Greece was about focusing on health, and eating foods that would increase your lifespan.
The Greek cuisine is based on the ancient ” Mediterranean triad” of wheat, olive, and grapes. Sheep and cows weren’t as readily consumed then as it is now. Seafood was the staple especially in coastal regions such as Pireaus, Thessaloniki, Patra, Kavala, Volos, and Alexandroupolis. The Ancient people of Greece ate cows, birds (thrushes, doves, quails, blackbirds, geese), wild hare, and deer, anywhere between twice a year on special occasions such as a religious sacrifice, to twice a week for those who could afford it.
Much like today, there were staunch advocates for vegetarianism. Hot debates and discussions about ethical standards/duties towards animals were held in the Athenian Agora.
The Health Benefits Of A Greek Diet
- Hippocrates founded the Hippocratic school of Medicine and created the oath of medical ethics. The earliest surviving copy are partial fragments that date back to AD 275.
“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.”
―
Ancient Greek Recipes
- Sesame Pancakes
- Roast Lamb
- Olive Relish
- Moretum, Garlic Cheese
- Honey Glazed Prawns
- Cheesy Placenta, layered cheesecake ball ( possibly the beginning of baklava).
- Fish Sauce
- Fassolatha, White Bean Soup
- Melomakarona, Greek Honey Cookies
- Kykeon, Mint Barley Water
Greek Food Today
Greek food still maintains its origins and traditions, which is why a lot of people travel to the country in the first place. Greek cuisine relies on garlic, spices, mint, thyme and basil, but also on legumes, grains, nuts, fruits and cheeses. That’s why it’s exciting to enjoy Greek food, because it has a lot to offer and you have a great diversity in regards to sea food, fish and many other dishes. It’s what sets Greek cuisine apart, since it brings access to a plethora of dishes, while maintaining that great sense of diversity and uniqueness.
Popular Greek Mezedes (snacks/starters):
Salads & Dips
- Taramosalata
- Tirokafteri
- Tzatziki
- Skordalia
- Greek Salad
- Pissara
- Dakos
Popular Greek Recipes
- Moussaka
- Dolmadakia
- Safridia
- Tomatokeftedes
- Saganaki
- Fasolada
- Faki
- Regali, a lmab soup from Mani