HERBS – INFUSIONS

With its Mediterranean and mild climate, Greece prides itself on being home to some of the most healthful and delicious herbs, some of which are endemic to Greece’s bioregions.

Most Greek herbs can be consumed as hot or cold beverages without losing their beneficial properties and can be added to foods that have been linked to our memories and to dishes that we experiment with.

Mountain tea is arguably one of the most popular herbal infusions, since, for many of us, it is part of our everyday lives as a hot beverage in winter and a cold beverage in summer. Mountain tea can also be used in confectionery, as it lends a unique aroma to cakes and sweet breads.

The same is true for mint, which is enjoyed as a hot beverage in the winter months but also goes well with salads – including summer salads with cucumber and zucchini – yogurt dips, cakes, and desserts such as sorbets.

Even humble chamomile can work wonders in the kitchen, as its aromas go extremely well with white meat, such as chicken, and combine perfectly with parsley, mint and black pepper. However, if you prefer to drink it, try adding a few drops of Greek tsipouro or raki to your cup to elevate the taste experience.

On the subject of cooking and cuisine, we need to talk about some of the Greek herbs whose flavours have been etched into Sunday dinners and more.

Homes are pleasantly infused with the fragrance of oregano every time a baking tray with chicken and potatoes comes out of the oven or when it is added to the Greek salad at the centre of the table. Oregano also works wonders sprinkled onto a thick slice of feta with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Thyme, on the other hand, goes perfectly with snails, but in Crete they call it Cretan Thyme. Thyme is not exclusive to Cretan recipes, since Greek cuisine uses it as a fragrant herb in meatballs, stuffed vegetables, meat, poultry and pies.

Meanwhile, there is marjoram, with a milder flavour. This is probably why many people prefer it in soups or vegetable broth, and even raw in salads.

The diverse ways that Greek herbs are used – from natural medicine to our diet – demonstrate their usefulness and unique contributions to our health.