We put together a list of facts about Greek cuisine. Keep reading below to learn why Greek food is unique and popular worldwide! Visit Greco in Boston, MA, to try our authentic, fresh Greek cuisine.
Champions of Olive Oil
Olive oil consistently receives praise for being a star of the Mediterranean diet. Many scientists have proven that olive oil helps to prevent diseases like Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and cancer if consumed regularly. Olive oil plays a key role in Mediterranean food – particularly Greek food. Greeks take great pride in that their ancestors were, in all likelihood, the first people to plant olive trees in the Mediterranean region, including France, Italy, and Spain. Greek cooking utilizes olive oil in almost everything, adding rich flavor to every meal
The Story of Potatoes in Greece
The Greek story of potatoes states that Greece’s first governor, Ioannis Kapodistrias, wanted to introduce potatoes into the beautiful country. Legend has it that he ordered potatoes that were to be given for free, but the Greek communities showed no interest in this exotic crop. He thought of a trick. He ordered potatoes to be unloaded in public display and guarded by security. They instructed the guards to look the other way if locals tried stealing the potatoes. The plan was crowned with success. The Greeks saw the potatoes as valuable and soon began stealing them all – quickly, they fell in love with the new exotic crop.
Mediterranean lifestyle
It isn’t just about the Greek cuisine for many communities in Greece. This region shares other characteristics with southern European countries like Italy and Spain, including the importance of the dinner table and hospitality. Greeks eat their main meal of the day at lunchtime, usually around 2 pm, and don’t usually eat dinner until around 9-10 pm, later than the Italians but slightly earlier than the Spanish. They also greatly value the importance of philoxenia – the concept of hospitality for strangers.
Little Meat, Lots of Vegetables
Greece’s rocky terrain and climate made it much easier for sheep and goats rather than cattle, so the most traditional meat and dairy products originated from those animals. For centuries, pork, poultry, rabbit, and seafood were considered luxuries and typically only used for a special occasion – or in the old times, for the high class. Vegetables, therefore, were the primary menu options across Greece. Fresh vegetarian dishes are priceless, with plenty of vegetables growing in the region. For most words nowadays, meat is a side dish or an extra add-on.
At Greco Truly Greek in Boston, MA, we have plenty of vegetarian and meat options for you to try. Our authentic and fresh Greek cuisine can’t be beaten – not to mention you can grab and go!
