The Eastern Cross/Fasting recipes/Lazarakia
Greek · Bread
Lazarakia
Λαζαράκια
Spiced sweet buns for Lazarus Saturday
Wine & oil daysPrep 40 minCook 25 minServes 12Plus 2 hours rising
When to eat it. Baked for Lazarus Saturday, the day before Palm Sunday, in the shape of Lazarus wrapped in his grave clothes. Made with oil. Keep it for days when wine and oil are allowed, like weekends in Lent and most of the Nativity Fast.
Ingredients
Method
- Knead everything except the whole cloves into a soft dough and rise 1½ hours.
- Shape pieces into small figures with crossed arms, and mark the grave-cloth wrappings with a knife.
- Press in cloves for eyes and rise 30 minutes.
- Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20 to 25 minutes.
Tip. Children love shaping them. In Cyprus they’re called “Lazarakia,” on Chios “Lazaroi.”
Fasting customs differ between churches and parishes. When in doubt, follow what your priest gives you. Not sure what today allows? Check the Orthodox calendar.
More for wine & oil days
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