The Greek cuisine, whether simple or rich, has been shaped and evolved alongside the customs and traditions of the Greek people. It is characteristic of Greeks to celebrate their joys, sweeten their sorrows, and alleviate their struggles by eating and drinking in the company of family and friends.

Customs are also closely related to the distribution of special delicacies, such as wedding favors (candied almonds) at baptisms and weddings, or kollyva (boiled wheat) at funerals. Every significant festival of the year, such as Christmas, Annunciation, Easter, and the Dormition of the Theotokos has its own specialty.

Orthodox Greeks, as faithful people, eat specific foods during fasts throughout the year, depending on the season (winter, spring, summer, autumn) and what the Greek land offers during that specific period.

[Excerpt from the text of the preface]