Ep 8. Episode 208: Chewing the Sea

In this episode of My Greek Table with Diane Kochilas, viewers are treated to a seafood-focused culinary adventure. Diane travels to the island of Chios, located in the Aegean Sea, to explore the bounty of the sea and learn how locals have been sustainably harvesting seafood for generations.

Diane begins her journey in a small fishing village, where she meets with local fishermen who explain their traditional fishing techniques. She's amazed to see how much work goes into catching these fresh and delicious fish! From casting nets to using hooks, the fishermen show Diane how it’s done.

Next, Diane travels to a nearby fish market where she meets with a local woman who runs a small restaurant. Together, they select some of the freshest fish and seafood available and prepare a delicious seafood feast. Diane observes how easy it is to cook fish and seafood simply, with the right ingredients and techniques.

In the following segment, Diane visits a family-run fish market, where she discovers a mouth-watering array of seafood. From octopus to squid, Diane is excited to learn about each fish and seafood’s unique flavor and how to cook each one. She also discovers the many health benefits of seafood, including how it's high in protein, vitamins, and Omega-3 fatty acids.

Diane next heads to a local tavern, where she observes a time-honored Greek tradition - sharing delicious seafood dishes with friends and family. She observes how the taverna truly represents traditional Greek hospitality.

In the final segment of the episode, Diane explores how the Greeks have utilized seafood in their cuisine throughout history. She travels to a restored naval base, where she observes an ancient technique that used the sun to dry fish into flavorful and concentrated flakes. She also samples an ancient Greek recipe that uses sardines and grapes - a combination that might seem unusual, but that has been used in Greek cooking for centuries.

Overall, Episode 208: Chewing the Sea is a deep dive into the world of Greek seafood. It's a tribute to the bounty of the sea and the traditional fishing methods that have kept communities thriving for generations. From the cooking techniques to the cultural significance of seafood in Greek culture, viewers will come away with an appreciation for the many ways this cuisine is infused with the essence of the Mediterranean.