Bread is a staple food that has been around for thousands of years. It is a simple yet versatile food that can be eaten on its own or used as a base for sandwiches, toast, and many other delicious dishes.
However, have you ever wondered what bread was called in ancient Greece? In this article, we will explore the fascinating history of bread in ancient Greece and answer this question.
The History of Bread in Ancient Greece
Bread was an essential part of the ancient Greek diet. It was consumed by all social classes and served in various forms such as loaves, flatbreads, and cakes. Ancient Greeks took their bread-making seriously and even had a goddess of grain and agriculture named Demeter.
Greek bread-making techniques were rudimentary compared to today’s standards. The Greeks made their bread using a mixture of barley and wheat flour, water, salt, and yeast. The dough was then shaped into loaves or other forms and baked over hot coals or in outdoor ovens.
What Was Bread Called in Ancient Greece?
The ancient Greeks had several names for bread depending on its shape or how it was made. Here are some examples:
Artos
Artos was the most common type of bread consumed by the ancient Greeks. It was made from wheat flour mixed with water and yeast and baked into round loaves weighing up to 5 kg. Artos was often used in religious ceremonies as an offering to the gods.
Psomi
Psomi was another type of bread made from wheat flour but with added ingredients like olive oil, honey, or cheese. It was shaped into long loaves with a thick crust and soft interior.
Maza
Maza was a type of flatbread made from barley flour mixed with water and sometimes flavored with herbs or cheese. It was cooked on hot stones or in outdoor ovens and often served with olive oil or honey.
Enkris
Enkris was a type of bread made from spelt flour, an ancient grain that was popular in Greece before the widespread use of wheat. It was shaped into small, round loaves and baked over hot coals.
- Conclusion
In conclusion, bread played a significant role in ancient Greek society, and the Greeks had various names for it depending on how it was made. Artos, psomi, maza, and enkris were just a few examples of the many types of bread consumed by the Greeks. Despite their rudimentary techniques, ancient Greek bakers produced delicious bread that is still enjoyed today.