Greek food connects family across the world during Christmas

·

After thousands of Greeks migrated from Greece to countries such as Australia, USA and Canada, they were forced to adapt to the cultures and traditions that were already present in a new, unfamiliar country.

However, Greeks across the world come together as one during the time of Christmas, as they use Greek food as a bridge to bring together their families and loved ones during this special time of year.

In a recent interview with the Insider, Anneta Konstantinides reveals how her family in California, who lived more than 6,000 miles away from their Greek relatives in Thessaloniki, found a way to each bring their family traditions to their dining table in the United States.

From Thesaloniki to California

You can view the full Insider story HERE

Konstantinides revealed that every year when she was little, her dad would make the baklava and kataifi that his own father — a professional filo maker — had taught him how to bake. Her father had spent his teen years helping in her grandfather’s shop in Thessaloniki during the busy Christmas and Easter seasons, learning how to stack the filo just right and make the ultimate “secret” syrup that goes on top of the baklava.

Anneta Konstantinides’ father’s baklava, which was passed down to him by his father – Insider

As Konstantinides transitioned into adulthood, graduating from college, she travelled across the world, moving to five places around the world — Washington, DC; London, England; Cardiff, Wales; New York City; and Sydney, Australia — over the course of six years.

But, without even realizing it, she found a connection to home through food.

While living in Sydney, she asked her mom for her spanikopita and tiropitakia recipes and did her best to recreate them as her friend made Yorkshire puddings beside her.

“I’ve continued to bring my family to the holidays, even when we’re apart. My mom’s Greek salad has become a favorite among my friends, so I’ve often made it for potlucks and barbecues. And I recreated my mom’s spinach pie yet again for my first Greek Easter party this year, although it may have taken a few (okay, four) panicked phone calls before I could get it right.”

Anneta Konstantinides, her mother, and sister during Christmas in the 1990s – Insider

Four ways to ‘Greek-ify’ your Christmas HERE

A Greek Christmas is the best Christmas

As Christmas is a great time for many, filled with love and happiness while surrounded by friends and family, it is important to keep in mind that some families are forced to spend their Christmas apart in other countries.

Despite possibly being physically separated, it is important that Greeks remember the traditions that bind families together during this special time of year.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Magna Graecia – Part 4: From Colony to Colossus: Syracuse and Hellenism in Sicily

Syracuse (in present-day Sicily) was founded in 734 BCE by settlers from Corinth and Tenea, led by their oikist (founder), Archias.

Scam no more: Protecting what’s most important with Evan Frangos

Hailing from Ikaria, Greece, Evan is also a Certified Cryptocurrency Investigator, specialising in recovering funds lost to scams and hacks.

Upcoming Sydney lecture will explore the Greek Civil War in Greek literature

The Greek Orthodox Community of NSW (GOCNSW) will delve into the history of the Greek Civil War as presented in Greek literature.

Greek olive oil in Japan: Health, heritage and authenticity

At the Olive Japan International Olive Oil Competition, Greek olive oils earned 12 Gold Medals and 36 Silvers.

The Greek island tourists haven’t overrun

Unlike Santorini, which draws up to 3.4 million visitors annually, the island of Kea remains largely under the radar.

You May Also Like

Popular Greek restaurant’s shock closure in South Australia

Beloved South Australian restaurant Zante Greek Street Food, has officially closed after six years of serving delicious Greek cuisine.

Peter Politis named on Futsalroos Squad for ASEAN Futsal Championships 2024

Futsalroos’ Head Coach Miles Downie has selected a 14-player squad to compete in the ASEAN Futsal Championships 2024, Thailand.

Sydney woman avoids jail despite ‘crucial role’ in fatal assault of Ross Houllis

A mother of three who lured Ross Houllis to the secluded car park where he was fatally assaulted has avoided full-time imprisonment.