Greek Food: Customs, Culture, Fresh Ingredients, Herbs and Spices.

Photography: EDGAR CASTREJON

“Greek cuisine is colorful and flavorful with a variety of tastes, aromas, flavours, colors and textures. There is more to Greek food than simply tasting good. It’s a way of life and in fact, regarded as one of the healthiest in the world.”

The Grecian love of food is well known across the world. Often recipes are passed down through generations with pride and joy that comes from preparing and sharing food. This culture of sharing is also shown in their meze, small plates usually consisting of dolma, saganaki, tzatziki and meatballs served before the main course.

It is believed that Archestratus, a Greek poet and a connoisseur of food, is said to have written the first cookbook in 350 B.C. All these years on, a worldwide favorite is the Greek salad, made of tomatoes, cucumbers, Greek olives, shallots, and a slab of feta cheese, all topped with a healthy drizzle of Greek olive oil.

Another popular staple is tzatziki, a Greek yogurt with cucumber and garlic, and is used as a dip for meat, vegetables, or bread, or even eaten alone with a spoon. Many Greek dishes may seem familiar as versions can be found around the Mediterranean.

The Greek version of moussaka is a baked dish made of layers of eggplant, ground beef, pureed tomato, onion, garlic, and spices, and topped with melted cheese. Dolmadakia, or dolmades, are grape leaves stuffed with rice, pine nuts, herbs, and sometimes ground beef as well. Skewers of chicken, beef, or lamb known as souvlaki are a popular street food to grab on the go, as are spanakopita —phyllo dough stuffed with spinach and feta cheese.

For your ‘Must Do’ list while in Greece

Enjoy a traditional Greek dinner in any part of Greece; mainland or the islands.
Participate in a cooking class to learn about the staples of Greek cuisine, and enjoy the opportunity of preparing popular dishes yourself.
Join a walking culinary tour to several bakeries and restaurants.
Visit a market to sample traditional ingredients like honey, olives, and olive oil. Spend an enjoyable evening at a bouzouki bar listening to traditional Greek music played on this ancient instrument, and sample Greek appetizers with a glass of Ouzo.