Why do we eat cod with garlic sauce on March 25?

Greek tradition dictates that on March 25, the (dual) religious and national holiday of Greece, the main dish at the family table is cod with garlic sauce. It is our national dish for the celebration and, on this day, we honor this beloved Greek custom. But how did this tradition originate and why was it established?

First of all, it should be noted that during Great Lent, which is the oldest and strictest fasting period, established in the 4th century AD, the Church permits the consumption of fish only twice, one of which is the Feast of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary and the other is Palm Sunday.

The Annunciation is a joyful celebration within the period of mourning of Lent and, because it is a Marian feast dedicated to the Virgin Mary and therefore particularly important, the Lenten fast is relaxed. Specifically, fish, oil, and wine are allowed.

Furthermore, the reasons that established cod on the table of March 25 were purely economic and practical. In mainland Greece, which was not surrounded by the sea, residents could not easily obtain fresh fish as those on islands and coastal areas could.

Thus, salted cod, which could be preserved without refrigeration, was the best solution and, moreover, it was very cheap, making it accessible to everyone and increasing its popularity. Therefore, salted cod was the easiest and most economical choice, and it could be found even in the smallest grocery shops.