Greece-Triad of Wheat Olive Oil and Wine
Trying to present to you the culture and traditions in one of the most ancient countries in the world-Greece, it is a not simple task to fulfill. But somewhere here, every story begins with the people. And the Greeks are people who take pride in their hospitality, their cuisine, and their traditions. As simple people who value family life, they will invite you in their home and make you feel as comfortable as being in your own home.
As Greece is one of the major tourist attractions now and years back, there some things that you should not miss during your stay in Greece. Apart from sandy beaches, blue water, and luxury hotels you will enjoy the national cuisine.
The basic Greek preparation of food with the impact of the Mediterranean is founded on the triad of wheat, olive oil, and wine. The food of Gods as some refer to it.
With its islands and the mainland not far from the sea, fish and seafood are a popular and common part of the Greek diet. The mainland is a nation of small farmers so Greece organically produce cheeses, fruits, oils, nuts, grains, legumes, and vegetables. Spices and other herbs such as garlic, oregano, basil, mint are widely used in the preparation of food. Vineyards cover much of Greeceās hilly terrain and the country is famous for different wines and spirits, and the ouzo the most favorite liqueur that is the national spirit.
As Greece always represented a country that many of the ancient kings tried to invade, Greek cuisine has many influences from the neighboring countries, especially from the Ottoman Empire. Even some of the dishes have names whose origin is from Turkey or kitchens like Armenia and Egypt. Nevertheless, the Greek tavernas (small homey restaurants) will provide you the insight in home delicious traditional meals and spirits.
Gyro
Refer to it as some of the most favorite sandwiches in Greece this is definitely a must-try. It consists of pork cooked on a vertical rotisserie, fries, tzatziki, tomatoes, and cucumbers which are being wrapped in pita bread. Considered as a fast-food sandwich, it can be served as a portion too. There are some variations of the meat, it can be also made with chicken, whilst beef or lamb to enjoy the Greece-Triad of Wheat Olive Oil and Wine
Souvlaki
In any of the Greek restaurants, you can try this traditional dish. It is grilled meat on a skewer and usually the meat of your choice, pork, chicken, lamb, beef and served with vegetables, fries, tzatziki, and pita bread.
Calamari
This popular appetizer consists of deep-fried squid served with salt and lemon and a sauce aside.
Tzatziki
Very popular salad made of yogurt, cucumber, and garlic. Worldwide known this salad you can try in some of the famous restaurants in the world, but you should try it in Greece.
Of course, the list of national Greek dishes is wide, and there are a lot more traditional meals that you should try. Do not forget to enjoy their national spirit- ouzo, and a wide selection of Greek wines.
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