Greek Easter Celebrations
In the Northern Hemisphere, Easter falls during the spring, and this is representative of renewal and rebirth. Much preparation and symbolism surrounds Easter from the celebration of Apokries (saying goodbye to meat), Clean Monday that is specifically observed with baking a traditional lagana (unleavened) bread, that hails the beginning of lent, and Holy Week when preparations for Easter begin.
On Thursday, I’ll be making my koulourakia (butter biscuits), and on Saturday it will be time to prepare red dyed eggs, using our home grown and laid, free-range of course, followed by baking my Tsoureki, the delightful sweet, buttery and aromatic bread that is made especially at this time of the year. Tsoureki is infused with mahlepi (ground wild cherry) and Masticha (aromatic gum), permeating our home and fill the senses with anticipation of mouthwatering enjoyment.
Recipes for these traditional recipes and the best roast lamb you’ll ever taste, can be found in my book Greek (family | culture | food). You can get your hard cover copies here or from a stockist nearest you, and eBook for various devices, and the specially released softcover for global customers.
Wishing you a safe an happy Easter xoxo