This month marks the beginning of the Easter period for Christians, Catholics and Orthodox religions. Here in Greece a trip to the supermarket will quickly remind you of the Lenten period ahead; the shelves are full of Taramasalata (fish roe dip) and Halva (a sweet made from sesame seeds), which are traditionally eaten on Kathari Defteri (Clean Monday).

The 15th February this year is Clean Monday in Greece and marks the beginning of lent. In Western society people celebrate the beginning of lent by making and eating pancakes. In Greece the emphasis is on the day the fast begins and as usual is celebrated with food. During lent the orthodox tradition is to give up meat, dairy and all animal products for 40 days with the exception of certain days where fish is allowed. One fasts in order to purge the mind and body of sin in preparation for the Holy Communion received during the Easter weekend.

On clean Monday families gather and eat Taramasalata (fish roe dip) and Halva (a sweet made from sesame seeds). The Raw Greek book contains many recipes which are great for the lenten period, it even contains recipes traditionally eaten on Clean Monday such as Taramasalata and Halva. The Raw Greek website also features the unique and delicious raw vegan recipe for Taramasalata which looks just like the traditional dip and even tastes like the real thing. If you haven’t already seen and tried this recipe now is the best time, believe me you wont be disappointed.