Evangelia Polyzou

“I make two or three different dishes each day, one for us and one for the kids”

Sofades, 2025.

This interview features Evangelia Polyzou, who was born in Larissa, grew up in Sofades, and later settled in Tyrnavos after her marriage. She reflects on her childhood with a sense of gratitude, noting that she was “lucky” to have a mother who always ensured she had a simple but nourishing breakfast, such as bread with marmalade or a cup of milk. Now a mother herself, Evangelia admits she often prepares whatever her children request for breakfast and lunch, something she recognizes with some concern as a contrast to her own upbringing. It is from the cases that although she is in her late 30s, she had catering services during her marriage, something not so common for her age in the Roma communities, but more common for the younger generations. During the conversation, she warmly shared her favourite dish, pastitsio, describing the full recipe and the memories connected to it. Her narrative offers a glimpse into the evolving food habits and family routines across generations within her community.

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Original language: Grecce/Romani