souvlaki etymology

Etymology

The word "souvlaki" (σουβλάκι) is derived from the Greek word "souvla" (σούβλα), meaning "skewer". The suffix "-aki" is a diminutive, indicating "small skewer" or "little skewer".

Meaning

Souvlaki refers to a type of Greek grilled meat skewer, typically made from pork, chicken, or lamb. The meat is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, and spices, then skewered and grilled over charcoal or open flames.

Origin

The origin of souvlaki is traced back to ancient Greece. Similar dishes have been depicted in Greek art dating back to the 5th century BCE. In ancient times, souvlaki was often prepared as a street food and sold from stalls or carts.

Over time, souvlaki became a staple dish in Greek cuisine and spread to other parts of the world, particularly to countries with large Greek immigrant populations. Today, souvlaki is a popular street food and restaurant dish in many countries.

Other Facts

  • Souvlaki is often served with pita bread, chips (French fries), and a variety of sauces, such as tzatziki, garlic sauce, and tomato sauce.
  • In Greece, souvlaki is commonly sold as a "gyros", where the meat is shaved off the skewer and wrapped in pita with various fillings.
  • The word "souvlaki" is also used to refer to the skewers themselves, which are typically made of metal or bamboo.

souvlaki relate terms

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