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dubai_suzie

Active member
The concept of kerasma (treating other people) is so great. I love going to restaurants here and have them offer free watermelon or shots of raki, it makes me feel so welcome even if it's a small gesture. Thank you to all of the generous Greeks who have opened their hearts and their homes :) This pic is from two summers ago, oh how I wish I could go back

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That's common practice in Greece but not so much in touristy areas. After your meal the house will offer free sweets or watermelon (in summer).
 
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That's common practice in Greece but not so much in touristy areas. After your meal the house will offer free sweets or watermelon (in summer).
The best is gliko tou koutaliou!
 
I found kerasma in Greece in all restaurants, shops (especially liquor shops). Ranged from gliko to koutali, semolina halva and raki. They would ask where were we from - Sydney Australia. Ii would say I speak Ligo Ellinka. And for whatever reason we were stars. Gigantic helpings of meals - thank God the boys eat lots. They loved the fact that I only spoke Greek and my sister and the boys didn't.
In Turkey, no matter what shop we went into - out came the glasses of tea. They were very impressed when we said our grandparents were born in Kalkan Asia Minor. We didn't say they were "asked" to leave in 1919. Patisqua
 
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This is so true, wherever you go in Greece they really appreciate that you try and communicate with them in Greek. To me this shows respect, care and effort. Whenever I travel to a new country I at least try to learn a few basic words like hello, thank you etc.
I found kerasma in Greece in all restaurants, shops (especially liquor shops). Ranged from gliko to koutali, semolina halva and raki. They would ask where were we from - Sydney Australia. Ii would say I speak Ligo Ellinka. And for whatever reason we were stars. Gigantic helpings of meals - thank God the boys eat lots. They loved the fact that I only spoke Greek and my sister and the boys didn't.
In Turkey, no matter what shop we went into - out came the glasses of tea. They were very impressed when we said our grandparents were born in Kalkan Asia Minor. We didn't say they were "asked" to leave in 1919. Patisqua
 
Free watermelon and raki - two of my favorite things during my time on Crete! Dining in Greece in general is a beautiful event. I have also gotten free Loukoumades for dessert, and sometimes on the house Greek yogurt smeared with honey and sprinkled with walnuts for dessert.
 

Navigating Greek Lenten Fasting - Advice?

Lent is here and all my friends and family have been asking "what are you doing for lent this year?" They're all "giving something up" but I decided I wanted to fast. I would love your help and advice because this is the first time I am doing things in a stricter way. I resolve to see it through!

It's supposed to be a a time of reflection, purification, and preparation for the celebration of Easter, and the diet plays a significant part in this spiritual journey. I don't want to get so obsessed with the "rules" that I lose myself in them and forget why I am fasting int he first place.

Thanks in advance!

Advice about making Greek coffee

I've developed a fascination with Greek culture and cuisine, and one aspect I'm particularly eager to explore is Greek coffee. I've heard that it's a unique and delicious brew, but I'm not quite sure how to make it at home.

I understand that Greek coffee is traditionally prepared using a special pot called a briki, but beyond that, I'm a bit lost. What type of coffee grounds should I use, and how finely should they be ground? Are there any specific brands or blends that are favored for making Greek coffee?

I'm also curious about the brewing process itself. Is there a particular technique for achieving that rich, foamy texture that Greek coffee is known for? And what about serving suggestions? Are there any traditional accompaniments or customs that I should be aware of?

Thanks in advance!

Greek tradition of hanging onions on the door?

I just came from my friend's house and I saw there were onions hanging on the door! I asked them about it and learned it was a New Year's tradition. Here's what my research pulled out:

The Greek New Year is celebrated on the 1st of January, but the preparations for the celebration begin on the New Year’s Eve. As per tradition, the Greeks hang onions outside their house, balcony, or anywhere visible to attract good fortune, prosperity, and luck. The onions are hung, infused with various symbols like coins, bread, honey, and olives, representing prosperity, food, and success. This concept reminds the Greeks of their grandmothers, who hung onions outside their homes and gatherings during special occasions, especially New Year’s Eve.

Beyond the symbolic value of the onions, for Greeks, hanging onions also has medicinal and therapeutic benefits. Onions can purify the air and keep away harmful bacteria and impurities due to their sulfur compounds. Additionally, they are believed to have great health benefits and can help boost your immunity, reduce the risk of cancer, and regulate cholesterol levels.

Hanging onions is also a fun activity that the family enjoys together. Everyone gathers around and writes their wishes on the onions and ties them with a red thread, symbolizing good fortune. The onion is then hung outside the house, allowing the wishes to come true. The onions can also be collected at a later stage and used for cooking, acting as a souvenir that remains with the family for the rest of the year.

The notion of hanging onions is an ancient tradition in Greece, and the country takes pride in it. The ritual dates back to ancient Greece, where they were hung on doors and windows to keep away evil spirits and other unwanted energies. In Greece, the land of myths and legends, the onion symbolizes the new life that arises from the depths of the earth, representing hope, fertility, and growth.

Greek Dance Instruction Video - Will Be Attending a Wedding

I will be attending a Greek wedding. They're friends of the family. Although I am Greek, many of our friends aren't. Since about 50% of the music at the reception will be Greek, I thought it would be fun to brush up on our Greek dancing together.

The problem is, I forget some of the dances, so I will also need to brush up. I can't teach people until I am a bit stronger.

I found this video. It's pretty good. Does anyone know of any more videos that can show me some Greek dancing?

Greek Wedding Traditions Roundup

I am helping someone plan her Greek wedding. I wanted to make a list of all the traditions we need to keep in time for the big day. Did I miss anything?

The Stolisma

The wedding day begins with the ritual of 'Stolisma,' where the bride and groom are prepared separately by their families. It's a moment filled with emotion, songs, and blessings, setting the tone for the day. I had honestly never heard of this. Do people still do it?

The Krevati

An amusing tradition is the 'Krevati' (bed making), where family and friends gather to decorate the couple's future bed with baby items, symbolizing fertility and a happy family life. Money is also often thrown on the bed for good luck and prosperity.

The Crowning (Stefana)

One of the most iconic rituals during the ceremony is the exchange of crowns or 'Stefana.' I believe they need to buy the crowns they want in advance?

Koufeta

No Greek wedding would be complete without 'Koufeta'—sugar-coated almonds given to guests as wedding favors. These bittersweet treats represent the ups and downs of married life and are shared in odd numbers to symbolize indivisibility and shared life.
Share and discuss Greek traditions related to Greek weddings, christenings, dance & holidays!

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