In her new book, Yiayia, Anastasia Miari takes readers on an intimate journey through the rich tapestry of Greek cuisine, celebrating the memories and culinary skills of the country’s grandmothers. Commissioned by Hardie Grant during a transformative moment in her life, shortly after learning she was pregnant, this collection serves not just as a recipe book but as a heartfelt tribute to the matriarchs of Greece who have preserved their time-honored culinary traditions. The book emerges from an immersive experience across Greece, where Miari, alongside photographer Marco Arguello, spent four months in the kitchens of various yiayiades (Greek for grandmothers). Each grandmother welcomed them into her home, sharing cherished recipes and stories that transcended generations. Marco’s photography captures the dishes and the intricate details of homes where time seems to stand still.
Documenting these culinary narratives was deeply personal for Miari. She emphasizes the importance of connecting with the women behind the recipes, noting, “Nothing in this book has been photographed in a studio setting”. Each recipe is infused with personal anecdotes and reflects the essence of its origin, from the robust flavors of the Ionian Islands to the fragrant herbs of the Peloponnese. The book also features contributions from other chefs and food lovers, creating a collective memory that resonates within the Greek community. Yiayia unfolds like a culinary map, guiding readers through Greece’s diverse regional cuisines. From the pasta-rich dishes of Corfu to the vegetable-stuffed delights of Thessaly, each chapter reveals the depth and variety of Greek cooking. Miari explores how geography and cultural exchanges have shaped Greek cuisine, particularly in Thessaloniki, the gastronomic capital of Greece. Yiayia is a celebration of life, love and the power of food to connect us to our roots. Miari’s heartfelt homage to the grandmothers who shaped her understanding of food serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our culinary heritage for future generations.
