Repanidi

Repanidi is a rare and archaic term, primarily found in certain dialects of Greek, particularly in some regions of the Peloponnese and the Ionian Islands. It refers to a small, hand-held device used for sifting flour. The device typically consists of a shallow, round frame made of wood or metal, across which a fine mesh is stretched. This mesh allows fine particles of flour to pass through while retaining larger clumps or impurities.

The term "repanidi" is not widely recognized in modern standard Greek, where the word "sita" (σίτα) is the more common term for a sieve. Its continued usage is primarily limited to older generations and specific rural communities, often associated with traditional baking practices. The etymology of "repanidi" is somewhat uncertain, but it may be related to older agricultural terms referring to the processing of grains.

While functionally similar to modern kitchen sieves, a repanidi often carries cultural significance as a tool passed down through generations, representing a connection to traditional food preparation methods and rural heritage. It is more than just a utensil; it symbolizes the care and effort involved in producing wholesome, homemade bread and other baked goods.