Mezze or Mezzah....?

The origin of the word mezze is unclear, although it may be derived from the Persian “ maza ” meaning “taste, relish,” or from the Arabic “mazmiz” which means to nibble at food It's also said to have come from the Assyrian word ‘ mez ’ meaning table, and it would take many small tables to serve mezze However we view the origin, it represents the pleasure of savouring little pieces of food A selection of small dishes typically served as appetisers or snacks in Greece and the Middle East. Greek mezze has a long and rich history, dating back thousands of years.

One of the earliest examples of Greek mezze is the ancient Greek tradition of symposia, which were drinking parties held in the homes of the wealthy At these gatherings, guests would be served a variety of small dishes, including olives, cheeses, and fruits, to accompany their wine. This tradition continued throughout the centuries and evolved into the modern-day practice of serving meze

In Greece, mezze is a social tradition and is often enjoyed in the company of friends and family Mezze can be found in tavernas and restaurants throughout Greece and is an important part of the country's culinary culture.

Some of the most popular Greek mezze dishes include tzatziki, taramasalata, dolmades, spanakopita, and saganaki

Tzatziki is a yogurt-based dip made with cucumber, garlic, and dill It is often served with pita bread or vegetables and is a refreshing and healthy addition to any mezze spread

Taramasalata is a dip made from fish roe, olive oil, lemon juice, and breadcrumbs. It has a creamy texture and a slightly salty flavour and is typically served with bread or crackers

Dolmades, also known as stuffed grape leaves, are a savoury dish made from grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat They are typically served cold and are a delicious addition to any mezze platter

Spanakopita is a pastry made with spinach and feta cheese. It is typically made in the form of small triangles or rolls and is a popular snack in Greece

Saganaki is a type of fried cheese that is typically made with kefalograviera or graviera cheese It is often served with lemon wedges and is a popular mezze dish in tavernas throughout Greece

One of the unique features of Greek mezze is the emphasis on sharing and communal dining. In many restaurants and tavernas, mezze is served familystyle, with a selection of small dishes placed in the centre of the table for everyone to share This tradition reflects the importance of hospitality and communal dining in Greek culture

Another important aspect of Greek mezze is the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients Many of the dishes are made with local produce and traditional Greek ingredients, such as olive oil, feta cheese, and herbs like oregano and thyme. This emphasis on fresh, local ingredients is a hallmark of Greek cuisine and is one of the reasons why Greek mezze is so popular around the world

Greek mezze has also been influenced by the country's long history of trade and conquest

Over the centuries, Greece has been ruled by various empires, including the Ottoman Empire, which had a significant influence on the country's cuisine. Ottoman meze dishes, such as stuffed grape leaves and hummus, were incorporated into the Greek culinary tradition, creating a unique blend of flavours and ingredients

In recent years, Greek mezze has gained popularity outside of Greece, with many restaurants and bars around the world offering their own versions of traditional Greek dishes This popularity reflects the growing interest in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine and the desire for healthy, flavourful dishes that are meant to be shared and enjoyed with friends and family