A MELTING POT OF CYPRUS FLAVOURS
SEVERAL FLAVOURFUL DISHES
Cypriot cuisine is a melting pot of flavours and influences from Greece, Turkey, and the Middle East. From savoury meats to fresh seafood and flavourful vegetarian dishes, there’s something for every palate. In this guide, we will look closely at 10 must-try traditional Cypriot dishes that will satisfy your taste buds.
1. Souvlaki & Souvla
Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish that consists of small pieces of boneless marinated meat (typically chicken, lamb, or pork) that are skewered and grilled to perfection on a bed of charcoal. Souvla is a popular meat dish similar to Greek souvlaki but consists of larger chunks of meat that include the bone. Lamb or pork is marinated in herbs and spices and then grilled over charcoal. Both are usually served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a side salad.
2. Halloumi Cheese
Halloumi is a type of cheese that is made from a mixture of sheep and goat’s milk. It has a unique texture that is firm and slightly rubbery, and a salty flavour. Halloumi is often grilled or fried and served as a side dish or as a vegetarian main course.
3. Sheftalia
Sheftalia is a type of homemade sausage made from ground pork, onions, and parsley. The meat is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs before being skewered and grilled to perfection over a bed of charcoal.
4. Kleftiko
Kleftiko is a traditional Cypriot dish that’s made with lamb or goat that’s slow-cooked in a clay oven with potatoes, tomatoes, and onions. The result is a succulent, melt-in-your-mouth meat that’s bursting with flavour.
5. Keftedes
Keftedes are small meatballs that are typically made with ground beef or pork, onions, garlic, and herbs. They’re often deep-fried or oven-baked and then served with a side salad.
6. Koupepia
Koupepia, also known as dolmades, are stuffed vine leaves that are filled with a mixture of ground meat, rice, and herbs. They are typically served as a meze dish and are a staple of Cypriot cuisine.
7. Makaronia Tou Fournou
Makaronia tou fournou is a classic Cypriot baked pasta dish made with macaroni, béchamel sauce, and minced meat. It is typically topped with grated cheese and baked in the oven until golden brown.
8. Afelia
Afelia is a traditional Cypriot pork dish that is marinated in red wine and coriander seeds before being stewed in a tomato-based sauce. The dish is typically served with potatoes.
9. Koupes
Koupes are a traditional Cypriot snack that is made from a mixture of ground meat, bulgur wheat, and spices. The mixture is shaped into small, oval-shaped balls, stuffed with seasoned meat and then deep-fried until golden brown.
10. Loukoumades
Loukoumades are a traditional Cypriot dessert that is similar to doughnuts. They are small, round, and deep-fried until golden brown. Once cooked, they are coated in honey and sprinkled with cinnamon.
A FOOD LOVER'S PARADISE
Cyprus is a food lover’s paradise, and these ten must-try dishes are just the beginning. From the savoury delights of souvlaki and sheftalia to the irresistible sweetness of Cypriot desserts, each bite offers a taste of the island’s rich culinary heritage. These flavours tell stories of the island’s history, its Mediterranean influences, and the love and care that goes into each dish. Whether you are a fan of bold, hearty meals or crave something sweet and delicate, Cypriot cuisine has something to satisfy every palate. Make sure to explore beyond these ten dishes to truly appreciate the depth and diversity of Cypriot food culture
