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Greek Food History

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History of Greek Cuisine
Greek cuisine is much more than just delicious food. It is part of a rich culture rooted in religion. The religion of the ancient Greeks is known today as Greek mythology. Ancient Greeks believed that world was ruled by Gods and Goddesses, and that the food that they ate, the crops that they grew, and how successful the crops were, were all tied to these mighty rulers. In fact, perhaps the most known food found in Greece, olive oil, was believed to have come from one of their Goddesses. According to the ancient story, a King named Cecrops wanted to find a God or Goddess to look after his city-state. He chose two; Athena and Poseidon. To choose one winner, a contest was held to see who could give the city-state the …show more content…

Because Poseidon was the God of the sea, he gave the people a sea. The people were not pleased with body of water, because they could not drink out of it. When it came to Athena’s turn, she planted an olive tree in the city-state. Athena was awarded with the city-state, because her gift was the most valuable. The city was named after her, and is currently the largest city in Greece and the capitol, known as Athens.2 Whether you choose to believe in this ancient myth or not, olive trees have had a significant meaning in Greek life since the ancient times. Olive oil was not only an important part of the Greek diet, but it had many other uses. Practical, every day uses included being a detergent, being a fuel for lamps, and as a form of medicine, especially for skin conditions. It also had a strong symbolic meaning. Did you know that the wreaths worn by Olympic champions were made from olive branches? The symbolic meaning behind wearing the olive branch wreath meant one was victorious. It also had meaning of peace and wisdom. Winners of the Olympic games were also awarded with olive oil as a prize.4 The olive tree is a big part of what makes the history of cuisine, culture, and beliefs of the ancient …show more content…

In this gyro, the chicken is marinated in balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, and herbs. It is served on the pita bread with Tzatziki sauce, a tasty sauce made with yogurt and cucumber, and romaine lettuce, tomato, onion, Kalamata olives, pepperoncini, and feta cheese.

Sides:
Greek Salad
This simple salad is made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onion, feta cheese and olives. It is tossed in an olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano dressing for the perfect combination of Greek flavors.
Fakes (Greek Lentil Soup)
This delicious soup is made with brown lentils, carrot, onion, garlic and tomato sauce. It is seasoned with several herbs and topped with olive oil and vinegar for a unique flavor.
Stuffed Grape Leaves
This traditional dish is made by simmering grape leaves stuffed with rice, onion, dill, and mint. Olive oil and lemon juice are also used for flavor in this dish.
Dessert:
Baklava
Baklava is a flaky dessert, made with phyllo dough, honey, and nuts. Phyllo dough gets it’s flakiness from the very thin, layered sheets of

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