The word rice derives from the Greek word ὄρυζα (oruza). Rice originated in Asia and migrated across the continents. It is said that it was brought to Greece about 300 BC by the armies of Alexander the Great. One of the best grades of saffron crocus comes from Kozani in Greece. The fields come alive in October when they are filled with the wonderful purple flowers.
The word "crocus" has its origins in Greek mythology. Crocus was a friend of the Greek god Hermes. One day they were both throwing a disc to each other when Hermes hit Crocus on the head and wounded him. He collapsed and died. Three drops from his blood fell on the centre of a flower, thus becoming the three stigmata (a Greek word) of the flower. The flower was named after him.
This rice dish is a specialty of Kozani and is usually served with Greek-style yoghurt on the side.