Hello, I’m Dina Dimitriou, the heart and soul behind “Greek Food Alchemist.” I was born and raised in the sun-kissed island of Cyprus, where the rich scents of freshly baked bread, herbs, and home-cooked meals were as much a part of my upbringing as the Mediterranean breeze. At twenty, I embarked on a journey that took me far from my roots, living in the UK, UAE, and France over the past two decades. Along this journey, I’ve carried with me the flavors of my homeland, the traditions of my ancestors, and a deep love for the art of cooking.
My husband hails from the beautiful Peloponnese, and together, we have two wonderful daughters—Nektaria, 12, and Georgia, 8—who inspire me every day to pass on our shared heritage through the food we prepare and enjoy together.
As a certified psychologist and trauma-informed practitioner, I’ve spent years helping individuals heal and grow. Through my work, I’ve come to firmly believe in the power of holistic wellness, where mental, emotional, and physical health are deeply interconnected. It’s this belief that led me to explore how cooking, a practice so close to my heart, can be more than just a daily task—it can be a powerful tool for healing and connection.
The Alchemy of Cooking
Cooking has always been more than just a way to feed my family; it’s a form of self-care, a creative outlet, and a means to connect with my roots. In our fast-paced world, we’ve lost touch with the simple, nourishing rituals of preparing and sharing home-cooked meals. I believe it’s time to reclaim that space in our lives.
Through “Greek Food Alchemist,” I blend my expertise in psychology with my passion for Greek and Cypriot cuisine to offer a unique perspective on cooking. I see the kitchen as a sanctuary, where the act of preparing food can be as therapeutic as the food itself. Cooking and baking, when approached mindfully, can be grounding practices that help us reconnect with ourselves and our loved ones. Whether it’s kneading dough, chopping vegetables, or simmering a pot of stew, these small, mindful acts can bring a sense of peace and fulfillment that nourishes both body and soul.
Why This Matters
Incorporating trauma-informed practices into the kitchen means creating a space where you feel safe, empowered, and connected. It’s about recognizing the importance of rituals, of slowing down, and of finding joy in the process of creation. When we cook, we’re not just feeding our bodies—we’re nurturing our minds and spirits.
On this blog, you’ll find traditional Greek and Cypriot recipes that have been passed down through generations, alongside insights into how these dishes can be part of a healing journey. I’ll share tips on how to make cooking a mindful practice, how to use food as a tool for wellness, and how to create meaningful connections with your loved ones around the table.
I’m excited to share this journey with you and to help you discover the alchemy that happens when you combine the love of cooking with the pursuit of mental and emotional well-being. Together, we can rediscover the joy and healing power of real food, prepared with love.
Welcome to Greek Food Alchemist—where the kitchen becomes a place of transformation, nourishment, and connection.