Cultural discovery through Baklava

Baklava opened a door into a cuisine I'd previously known almost nothing about. The bright and lemony flavours are unlike anything in my usual rotation and I mean that positively. Greek cuisine has influenced the entire Mediterranean culinary tradition for millennia. Understanding that context made the dish taste different — richer with meaning.

I learned that dried oregano is central to this cuisine's character, not just a seasoning. The a village feast setting was authentic and helpful for understanding what I was eating. ouzo completed the picture. A genuinely educational meal.