Proteus, a Greek god of the sea, is known for his shapeshifting abilities and oracular powers. He is the son of Poseidon and Thetis and has three children. Several Greek heroes sought his help, and he appears in works of poetry and fiction. Another character named Proteus is a king of Egypt. Proteus is a […]
Charon, son of Erebus and Nyx, is responsible for ferrying the dead across the River Styx in Greek mythology. He demands payment, and those who cannot pay are sentenced to roam the riverbanks. Charon is depicted differently in various myths and charges more for living visitors. The going rate in ancient Greece was an obol, […]
In 2011, Greece and Spain had high youth unemployment rates of nearly 50%, while the US and OECD had rates of around 8-9%. In 2010, over 80 million non-student youths were unemployed worldwide, with the highest rates in Slovakia, Hungary, and France. Other countries with high unemployment rates include Zimbabwe, Vanuatu, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan. At […]
The Greek national anthem is based on the first two quatrains of the poem “Hymn to Freedom” by Dionysios Solomos, set to music by Nicholas Mantzaros in 1828. It was adopted in 1864 and is played during official occasions and Olympic Games closing ceremonies. The anthem exalts the virtues of freedom and was chosen as […]
Greek cheeses are diverse, with each region having its own style. Feta is the most popular, but other types include myzithra, kasseri, and graviera. Cheesecake in Greece traditionally used soaked hard cheeses, such as feta and myzithra. Greek cheeses are many and very varied, with many colours, flavors and textures. For the most part, each […]
Greek rice is cooked in olive oil and flavorful broth with vegetables like onion, carrots, garlic, and spinach. It is often seasoned with fresh herbs, nuts, lemon juice, and feta cheese. It can be served hot or cold and is often paired with roasted or grilled meat. The most elaborate version is called gamopílafo, served […]
The Greeks used a system of “classical elements” to explain life events, with earth, air, water, fire, and ether. These elements were associated with specific traits and tied to the four humors of health. The system survived in modern culture, including in tarot, astrology, and traditional Chinese medicine. The Greeks believed that disturbances in the […]
Greek yogurt desserts range from frozen yogurt to layered mixes and indulgent mousses. Toppings like granola, nuts, and fruit can be added, and flavors can be enhanced with honey, caramel syrup, or chocolate syrup. There are several types of Greek yogurt desserts ranging from a treat to a rich mousse. For a cool treat, have […]
Greek pastries include baklava, spanakopita, and tsoureki, often made with phyllo dough, nuts, and honey. Biscotti, melomakarona, and koulourakia are also popular, as well as fried treats like loukoumades and tei. Many are served with coffee or as holiday treats. A common type of Greek pastry is baklava, which is made from phyllo dough and […]
Consider dietary requirements when choosing frozen Greek yogurt. Look for options with no added sugar or sugar substitutes for those limiting sugar intake. Nonfat, dairy-based frozen Greek yogurt is a low-fat alternative to ice cream. Neutral flavors work best in dessert recipes. When choosing frozen Greek yogurt, it’s important to first consider any dietary requirements […]
Greek food is made with fresh vegetables, olive oil, cereals, and pasta, and is not overly spiced. Traditional dishes include moussaka, dolmades, and souvlaki. Desserts are made with phyllo pastry, nuts, and honey, such as baklava and loukomades. Seafood is also popular. Greek food is characterized by unprocessed natural ingredients that are not overly spiced. […]
Greek yogurt with honey is a popular snack or dessert option, often with added flavors and probiotics. It is made by combining strained yogurt with honey, and may contain added sugar. Plain Greek yogurt mixed with honey is also used in recipes. It is marketed as a healthier alternative to regular yogurt due to its […]
Greek cuisine uses a variety of imported and native spices, with regional variations. Mastic gum is a popular local spice used in sweet bread and liqueurs. Anise, allspice, and cloves are commonly used in desserts, while coriander, nutmeg, and cumin are used in meat and vegetable dishes. Sumac and black pepper are also used sparingly. […]
Greek olives are a versatile ingredient in Greek cuisine, used in traditional dishes and for making olive oil. They are harvested and brined before being used in cold or hot dishes. Green and black varieties are available, with Kalamata being the most popular worldwide. An olive is a small pitted fruit with a sour and […]
Greek fire was a powerful incendiary weapon used by Byzantine Greeks, Arabs, Chinese, and Mongols. Its formula was kept secret and is still unknown today. It was made of ingredients such as petroleum, naphtha, quicklime, sulphur, nitre, and saltpeter. Greek fire was used to make ships of fire and firebombs. It was compared to the […]
Greek bread comes in various shapes and sizes, with different ingredients and flavors. Pita is a well-known type of Greek bread, while bastounakia is a breadstick used for dips. Bobota is a cornmeal-based bread, while horiatiko psomi is a dense bread made from multiple flours. Tyropsomo has feta cheese added to the dough, while mavro […]
To learn about Greek cuisine, source fresh, seasonal ingredients, and have staples like olive oil, garlic, and Greek yogurt on hand. Choose recipes based on the occasion and involve friends and family in the cooking process to enhance the experience. Greek culture emphasizes fun and companionship in the kitchen. Studying and practicing Greek cuisine is […]
Greek chicken marinade can be made from scratch or purchased pre-packaged. Common ingredients include garlic, olive oil, black pepper, lemon/lime juice, oregano, mustard, rosemary, and thyme. Other options include sumac. Improvisation is required when making a marinade from scratch. Salad dressings can also be used as marinades. Commercial varieties range in sweetness and calorie density. […]
The ancient Greek gods include many deities, with the mother goddess as a central figure. The twelve main gods, called Olympians, were the most important and were worshiped by the Romans. Zeus is the supreme ruler and controls the weather, while Hera is his wife and sister. Other major gods include Hades, Poseidon, Ares, Hephaestus, […]
A Greek salad, also known as horiatiki, is a traditional dish in Greece made with tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and olive oil. Lettuce, vinegar, and seasoned dressings are not included. The salad is served with dried oregano and olive oil on the side. Thick steak tomatoes are the best variety to use, […]
