1.
The first known cookbook was actually written about Greek cuisine rather than Roman. When was it written?
Correct Answer
A. 330 BC
Explanation
The first known cookbook was written about Greek cuisine in 330 BC. This indicates that Greek cuisine was documented earlier than Roman cuisine.
2.
Popular 'dips' that most people know are hummus and Taramasalata. What is the main ingredient of melitzanosalata?
Correct Answer
D. Aubergine
Explanation
The main ingredient of melitzanosalata is aubergine. Melitzanosalata is a popular Greek dip made from roasted or grilled eggplant, which is then mashed and mixed with various ingredients such as garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs. It is commonly served as a spread or dip with bread or vegetables.
3.
Which of these other cultures has contributed greatly to the diversity of Greek cuisine?
Correct Answer
A. Venetian
Explanation
The Venetian culture has greatly contributed to the diversity of Greek cuisine. Venice had a significant influence on the Greek islands and mainland during the Venetian rule in the Middle Ages. This influence can be seen in various aspects of Greek cuisine, including the extensive use of spices and herbs, the incorporation of seafood, and the introduction of dishes such as pastitsio and loukoumades. The Venetian influence has added a unique flavor and variety to Greek cuisine, making it even more diverse and rich in culinary traditions.
4.
What makes up the 'Mediterranean triad' on which ancient Greek cuisine was based?
Correct Answer
C. Wheat, olive oil and wine
Explanation
The correct answer is "Wheat, olive oil and wine." The Mediterranean triad refers to the three main components of ancient Greek cuisine. Wheat was a staple food and formed the base of many dishes, while olive oil was used for cooking and flavoring. Wine was a common beverage and often consumed during meals. This combination of wheat, olive oil, and wine formed the foundation of the ancient Greek diet.
5.
Why are beef dishes so uncommon in Greek cuisine?
Correct Answer
A. Sheep and goats were better suited to the terrain
Explanation
Greek cuisine is influenced by the geography and climate of the region, which includes mountainous terrain and limited pastureland. Sheep and goats are better suited to these conditions as they are more resilient and can graze on the available vegetation. Additionally, these animals provide other resources such as milk and cheese, which are widely used in Greek cuisine. Therefore, beef dishes are less common in Greek cuisine due to the practicality and suitability of sheep and goats in the region.
6.
What unusual animal was hunted for food to extinction on the island of Cyprus?
Correct Answer
D. Pigmy hippopotamus
Explanation
The correct answer is pigmy hippopotamus. The pigmy hippopotamus was hunted for food to extinction on the island of Cyprus. This means that the population of pigmy hippopotamuses on the island was completely wiped out due to hunting for food. The hunting pressure was so intense that it led to the extinction of this unusual animal on the island.
7.
What do moussaka and kethethis have in common?
Correct Answer
A. Both of these
Explanation
Both moussaka and kethethis have names that are Arabic, Persian, or Turkish rather than Greek. Additionally, the main ingredient in both dishes is minced meat.
8.
One of my favourite dishes is kleftiko, lamb shanks cooked so slowly that the meat just falls of the bones. Where did the name of this dish originate according to legend?
Correct Answer
B. Cabbage
Explanation
According to legend, the name of the dish "kleftiko" originated from the Greek word "kleftis," which means thief. It is believed that during the Greek War of Independence, Greek rebels would steal and cook lamb in underground ovens to avoid being detected by the Ottoman authorities. They would bury the lamb with cabbage leaves to prevent any smoke or smell from escaping, thus creating the delicious and tender kleftiko dish.
9.
Best known for turning milky white when mixed with water, what is used to flavour the alcoholic beverage Ouzo?
Correct Answer
C. Anise
Explanation
Anise is used to flavor the alcoholic beverage Ouzo. Ouzo is a traditional Greek drink that is known for its milky white appearance when mixed with water. Anise, which has a distinct licorice-like flavor, is the primary ingredient used to give Ouzo its unique taste. It is commonly used in various alcoholic beverages and is particularly popular in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines.
10.
Kleftiko, lamb shanks cooked so slowly that the meat just falls of the bones. Where did the name of this dish originate according to legend?
Correct Answer
C. 'Stolen meat' because Greek bandits would steal sheep and goats
Explanation
According to legend, the dish Kleftiko got its name from the Greek bandits who would steal sheep and goats. The meat would be cooked slowly to avoid detection, resulting in tender meat that falls off the bones.