At the start of the pre-Lenten carnival, the season of mizithropita (large pies made in a baking pan) and mizithropitakia (small, individual portions) commences in Crete. It is a carnival treat common to every household. All around Crete, there are mizithropita of various kinds using different cheeses along with mint or fennel. Typically, they are prepared with sweet mizithra cheese and sometimes flavored with cinnamon, and more recently with lemon zest and mastiha.
They are served with honey or powdered sugar and accompanied by raki. It is a treat for welcoming guests at homes during the carnival.
There is no Mardi Gras without mizithropitaki!
