By Nikolas Bardis

Before dawn, Mr. Dimitris Santos, together with his wife and two children, descend to their bakery, in the center of Pothia Kalymnos. The oven lights up and they begin to create unique pastries, which fill the surrounding streets with their smell. Undoubtedly the most popular is the heftazymo bread, which literally breaks not only the locals, but also the visitors of the island. But what makes this bread so special?

Kalymnos heftazimo is more than a simple bread. It is a complete culinary experience, which encompasses the rich tradition of the island. Its recipe is passed down from generation to generation and remains unchanged over time, while it is an integral part of the life of the Kalymnians. In all important moments of social life on the island, the heftazimo is there. From birth and marriage, to death this bread comes to “bind” human experiences and bring the whole world around the table.

The unique composition of the heftazymos highlights the culinary art of Kalymnos and the Dodecanese. Various ingredients are used in the preparation of the sourdough, such as split chickpeas, hot peppers, aniseed, and many others that add rich aromas and flavors. Eftazimo, in addition to flour, includes ingredients such as ouzo, mastic and butter, creating a perfectly balanced recipe that harmonizes the flavors of the island in a single bite. So it’s not just another sweet or pastry. It is the history of the community and the local culture, crafted with love and care.

This is the main reason why this bread has its place of honor on the island, and is preferred by both locals and visitors, while it also goes to the surrounding islands every day! If you find yourself in Kalymnos and wander the narrow streets in Pothia, the smell of yeast and anise will lead you to a bakery. Don’t forget to try the famous heftazimo, and get some for your loved ones. After the sponges, it is the second best souvenir, worth taking with you when leaving the island.