The Ingredients of the Greek Islands

The most important elements in the cuisine of the islands—good fresh vegetables and fruits, olive oil, beans and meat, poultry and fish—are available everywhere in the world. Island cooking is forgiving and flexible, and most of the recipes in this book offer alternatives so that you can make them with whatever ingredients you have on hand. For the few hard-to-find items, such as some of the cheeses, I have suggested substitutes. Authentic imported products are available in Greek and Middle Eastern grocery stores. I have also included a list of shops, mail-order sources and Internet sites where Greek spices and cheeses can be ordered.