Lagana (bread) facts for kids
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Leavened lagana with sesame seeds
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| Alternative names | λαγάνα |
|---|---|
| Type | Bread |
| Place of origin | Greece |
| Ingredients generally used | Sesame seeds |
| Similar dishes | Focaccia |
Lagana (Greek: λαγάνα) is a special Greek flatbread. It is traditionally baked for Clean Monday, which is the first day of Great Lent. This bread is usually flat and has an oval shape. Its surface often has cool patterns made by pressing fingertips into the dough.
Lagana often has sesame seeds sprinkled on top. You might also find it with other herbs or seasoned with olive oil. While it used to be made without yeast (meaning it was "unleavened"), most lagana today is made with yeast, making it a bit softer and fluffier.
Contents
What is Lagana?
Lagana is a type of bread that is baked flat. Think of it like a thin, wide loaf. It's not as thick as a regular loaf of bread. The dough is shaped into an oval. Before baking, bakers press their fingertips into the dough. This creates unique dimples and patterns on the surface.
Common Toppings
The most popular topping for lagana is sesame seeds. These tiny seeds add a nutty flavor and a nice crunch. Sometimes, people also add other tasty things. These can include different herbs like oregano or thyme. A drizzle of olive oil before baking also adds to its delicious taste.
Lagana and Clean Monday
Lagana is strongly connected to a special day called Clean Monday. This day marks the start of Great Lent in the Eastern Orthodox Church. Lent is a period of about 40 days. During this time, many people choose to fast or eat simpler foods. It is a time for reflection and spiritual cleansing before Easter.
Why Lagana is Eaten
Traditionally, lagana was made without yeast. Bread made without yeast is called "unleavened." This type of bread is simple and pure. Eating unleavened bread on Clean Monday symbolizes a fresh start. It represents leaving behind old habits. Today, most lagana is made with yeast. But it still holds its special meaning for this important day.
The History of Lagana's Name
The name Lagana comes from a very old word. It comes from the ancient Greco-Roman pastry dough called lagana. This ancient dough was also known as tracta. It's interesting to know that the word lasagna, which is a popular Italian dish, also comes from this same ancient word! So, lagana has a long and rich history.
