Today is Lazarus Saturday and Orthodox Christians across Greece and Cyprus mark the beginning of Holy Week with a unique culinary tradition: Lazarakia.
Depending on the region, these small, sweet creations are considered either cookies or breads. Made in honor of Lazarus, whom the Orthodox Church commemorates as being raised from the dead by Jesus, Lazarakia are a symbol of the miracle that precedes Easter.
Traditionally shaped like a wrapped figure with arms crossed and clove-studded eyes, Lazarakia are meant to represent Lazarus himself a burial shroud. The recipe varies across regions in Greece but remains consistent in one key aspect—the Lazarakia are always egg- and dairy-free in observance of the strict Lenten fast, but flavored with honey, nuts, raisins and other locally produced ingredients. Particularly in Kos, Lazarakia are made much larger and stuffed with fruit and nuts.
A popular Greek saying underscores the importance of this tradition:
“Λάζαρο αν δεν πλάσεις, ψωμί δεν θα χορτάσεις.”
(If you don’t knead a ‘Lazarus’, you won’t have enough bread to satisfy your hunger.)
Popular Greek chef Akis Petretzikis offers a detailed recipe for Lazarakia on his website, complete with ingredients and instructions in both English and Greek.
The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America has also produced a helpful instructional video for those who want to make them at home today.
Cover Photo Credit / Akis Petretzikis’ Lazarakia
