Technology has not only made elusive and rare foods more accessible but also has affected most cuisines around the world, whether by introducing new ingredients or streamlining traditional processes. Still, there are places in the world where time seems to have stood still, and the Greek island of Crete is one of these places.

Crete sits in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, and it’s a place where fruits, grains, vegetables, herbs, and greens have thrived for thousands of years. Humans began settling on Crete around 6500 BCE, and although the island came into contact with the culinary influences of various other civilizations, the Cretan diet remained steadfast.

Crete may be one of the best examples of the esteemed Mediterranean diet, and the island is a natural producer of staples like olive oil, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, nuts, legumes, and seafood. However, rather than fish, Cretans choose to eat meat like goat and lamb, along with cheese from these animals, and of course, local wine.

Today in Crete, you will find dishes that feature the same ingredients the islanders have been utilizing for 4,000 years. The wine comes from ancient vineyards on the island, and staples like olive oil, grains, greens like stamnagathi and askordoulakous, and snails are all the same foods that Cretans have enjoyed throughout the centuries.