In Greece, the period of lent before Easter is called Sarakosti; it is named after its duration, which is forty (saranta) days. It begins on Clean Monday and lasts until the Friday before the Holy Week. The Holy Week is not part of the Sarakosti; though also a week of fasting, it has special significance. During Sarakosti, people avoid the consumption of meat, fish, dairy and, for the more extreme, olive oil.

In recent years, several researches have shown that the Orthodox Christian fasting system is highly beneficial. According to scientists, abstinence from meat is beneficial for our health, since we detoxicate and our cholesterol levels fall. Simultaneously, the increased intake of fibre from fruits and vegetables, stimulates the proper function of the peptic system and the intestine in particular, and helps prevent cancer.

Whether we believe or not, fasting doesn’t just help to maintain good and balanced health, but also lifts our psychology. In addition, the strength of will required to complete the fast, is an exercise which, according to ancient Greek philosophers, strengthens our abilities in all sectors and trains our self-discipline. It’s not by chance that ancient Greek generals fasted before battles, while philosophers like Plato and Socrates followed a consistently light diet, in order to maintain a clear mind.

The Athenian gastronomic map offers a number of choices for Sarakosti meals, and in cookbooks one can find several fabulous recipes containing the right ingredients for fasting, not lacking in flavour at all. All the prerequisites are there. Thus, it is time to fast, whatever our reasons; and in the end, there is the Easter lamb to reward our patience!