Mary Beth Clark

Culinary Educator · Consultant · Author

Athens Central Market: Chickens and Rabbits

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Athens Central Market: Chickens and Rabbits - 1170 pixels - 2

Having visited many food markets in many countries, I can intuit a lot from how the butchers and vendors display their offerings for sale. I've seen poor chicken breasts heaped into piles drained of any life force, dull and light gray in color. It is a waste, and sad, just like the owners of the place. And then, there is this example: Each chicken is plump, ivory-pink, and proud to be a chicken. Brings a smile and a renewed sense of spirit. Any butcher who is a really good butcher displays the innards for shoppers to see. Livers are firm and plump and brightly-colored. You know these chickens are very fresh.

In the background two rabbits are displayed with their fuzzy white paws and fluffy white tails. Why? Identification purposes. Many years ago, in many countries, cats were sold completely skinned. This custom has stopped in most places. Since rabbit and cat anatomies "appear" similar, leaving a bit of fur on rabbits gave instant recognition to shoppers. If you want to purchase rabbit for dinner, this is the way to do it.

 

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Original photography, shot on location, by Mary Beth Clark.Back to Album

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