Thessaloniki: And the Many Kitchens of Northern Greece

(Hardback)

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Following the success of her acclaimed Ikaria, Meni now invites readers to explore the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Thessaloniki and the Northern Greek region. This vibrant cookbook celebrates both traditional and modern dishes, shedding light on a region renowned for its unique food culture. Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city and a UNESCO-recognised epicentre of traditional culinary practices, is the heart of this culinary exploration. The city's abundant natural resources, from fertile plains to mountainous enclaves, contribute to a diverse array of ingredients, including the renowned Greek elephant beans and stone fruits. Meni's work not only uncovers these regional specialties but also weaves in the rich historical tapestry shaped by Sephardic Jews, Ottoman influences, and returning Greek migrs, offering a new perspective on Northern Greek cuisine.

With over 70 carefully curated recipes, Thessaloniki brings to life the complex flavours and traditions of the region's food. Meni's research and collaborations with local experts reveal the untold stories behind each dish, presenting an authentic taste of Northern Greece's culinary legacy. Complemented by Stephanie Stamatis's evocative photography, the book captures the essence of the region's modest, homey kitchens and the slow food philosophy that defines its cuisine. Through these recipes and the vivid imagery, readers are invited to savour the unrecognised gems of Greek gastronomy and reconnect with the time-honoured traditions that make Thessaloniki's food truly exceptional.

Author Bio

Meni Valle is an AustralianGreek food writer and cookbook author. Her rich Greek heritage, coupled with her love for travel and food, has seen her become one of Australia's most respected authorities on Mediterranean cuisine. When she is not writing cookbooks, Meni shares her knowledge and passion for Greek food through cooking classes and culinary tours to Greece, where she loves connecting with locals and discovering new recipes. She also regularly presents at festivals and conferences and contributes to publications such as Vogue, Marie Claire, The Weekend Australian, The Telegraph UK, ABC National Radio and SBS Greek.

Meni is the author of five cookbooks: My Greek Kitchen (2011), My Mediterranean Kitchen (2012), Everyday Mediterranean (2015), Mediterranean Lifestyle Cooking (2019), Ikaria (2020) which won the Eugenie Brazier prize and The Mediterranean Cook (2024).