In Thrace, the traditional dish ‘Mpapho’ is still a beloved part of Christmas celebrations. On Christmas Eve, families would begin butchering pigs after a 40-day fast, making use of every part of the animal. Local butcher Stathis Efstathios explained that the intestines of the pig are stuffed with meat, rice, and spices to create ‘Mpapho,’ which is often slow-cooked overnight. This dish has become a customary breakfast for families returning home from Christmas church services.