I’m simply loving the feedback from my readers of Greek Life. Here’s one that pretty well sums up my vision for Greek Life. I couldn’t have said it better!!
‘I had the pleasure of attending a book reading and meeting the lovely Author of Greek Life , Eugenia Pantahos. I sat listening to her stories of life growing up in a Greek household in the Diaspora, and it hit me now profoundly linked and similar our lives and experiences are.
Greek Life – the perfect book to learn about Greek culture and traditions
For a Greek family cooking , and eating with others is a huge part of our culture and heritage. It is also Linked to our sense of Philotimo.
Philotimo is a Greek word that is without definition, but impacts the world beyond imagination. The word philotimo comes from the Greek root words “filos,” meaning friend, and “timi,” meaning honor. When Greeks have food , there is life and kefi , what we have in our homes is always on offer to others , no matter how much or how little we have.
Greek Life began as an idea to collaborate into some sort of book format Eugenia’s recipes , and those of her mother. Something to pass onto her three daughters , as well as other family members.
With that idea she formed a beautiful collection of recipes , marking every occassion in the Greek Calendar. Honouring every tradition of the rich Hellenic Culture . Something I for one value greatly and I know future generations will benefit from her explanations , simple recipes and stunning photographs !
Each section of the book starts with a philosophy & makes reference to that seasons celebrations. Each recipe has its own ‘life ‘ and explanation , so you as a reader can understand and appreciate the Greek traditions and customs behind the celebration.
You will find everything from ‘Wedding Bread ‘ to ‘koliva’ in this book , and even references to certain plants and greens we find in our gardens that are used in our cooking and salads.
With Greeks as we know , we don’t really care what you do , but rather ‘ where are you from ?’ . I was curious given I recognised Eugenia’s surname as my mothers relatives from her village. I finally mustered up the courage to put my hand up asking a question that led to where her in laws descended from , and it was indeed my Mothers village ! I so love this connection with Greeks.
Greek Life is so much more than a cookbook, given so much of Eugenia’s life and family are intertwined with it. It is also a wonderful reference for Greek Customs and way of life. It sits proudly on my coffee table , thank you Eugenia for writing such a beautiful Anthology for us to pass on to our children. – Eleni Tsemtsidis
