10. Greece
Kicking off our list, it’s the country that brings us dolma (stuffed vine leaves) and feta cheese. Dishes feature delicious locally produced ingredients such as olive oil, sun-ripened tomatoes, olives, nuts, honey, aubergine and courgette. Much has been reported on the health benefits of Mediterranean food, and in its purest form, the Greek diet is nutritionally rich. Its climate lends itself to growing fruits such as figs, and grapes, not to mention pungent herbs such as oregano and sage and thyme. As far as meat is concerned, the Greek landscape lends itself to sheep and goat farming. Abundant lamb dishes as well as cheeses made with goat’s or sheep’s milk (such as feta and halloumi) are prominent on the menu. If you’re brave enough, you could wash down your meal with a glass of the rather robust spirit ‘ouzo’ – often at 38% proof, it’s not for the faint-hearted!
