Greece

Country - Greece

Cuisine Description - It is well-known that Greek Cuisine rules the cuisines from the entire world, so it is no surprise to find out that the first cookery book was written in 330 B.C by the Greek food gourmet, Archestratos. While other countries have a cuisine strongly influenced by different cultures, Greek cuisine seems to exist since 350 B.C, when Alexander the Great extended the Greek empire. Due to its history and geography, the Greek style of cooking is typical of Mediterranean cuisine, having also influences from Italy, the Balkans, and Middle East. Even though Wheat is the main grain is this country, Barley is also grown here. The most important vegetables which grow in Greece are potatoes, green beans, tomatoes, Eggplant, onions, and okra. Here the terrain generally favours the production of goats and sheep over cattle, and this is the reason why Beef dishes tend to be a rarity by comparison. In coastal regions and on the islands, fish dishes are very popular. Greek food has always a special taste and this is given by the regional produced olive oil. The hearty spirit of the Greek cuisine does not agree with too much refinement. According to their tradition, the Greeks prefer to serve their dishes warm rather than hot. In Greece, the traditional meat of festivals and holidays is Lamb, but Beef, Pork, or poultry are considered to be very delicious, as well.

Nowadays, because of the many invasions which took place throughout history, Greek dishes have Turkish names such as Baklava, Moussaka while in the western part of the country, a lot of food names have a distinctive Italian flavour, like pastitsada. Nevertheless, the history of Greece cannot be forgotten as long as Greeks have always given a great importance to the preparation an appreciation of fresh food, as a symbol of respect and friendship. Greece has a warm and dry climate which offers real good growing conditions for olive and lemon trees and this aspect is essential as lemons and olive oil represent an important part of the Greek diet. oregano, garlic, basil, thyme, courgettes and aubergines are widely used, as well, while honey is the main ingredient in flavouring desserts like Theepless and Baklava. Another speciality ingredient in Greek cuisine is feta cheese. Copyright Recipes Wiki