A QUITE ESSENTIALLY CYPRIOT SAUSAGE!
Heavily celebrated in Cypriot local cuisine, sheftalia to many are more than just homemade sausages. Wrapped in delicate caul fat, this traditional Cypriot delicacy is made from minced meat, finely chopped onions, herbs, spices, and parsley. Typically grilled over hot coals, these little wrapped parcels are usually found at the top of most Cypriot menus.
AN AUTHENTIC CYPRIOT MEAL
Today, the sausage of choice is regarded by many as an invitation to visitors to delve into the heart of the island’s culinary culture. In light of this, these juicy, moist sausages are considered a must-try when searching for an authentic Cypriot meal. When tried for the first time, in addition to culinary bliss, they are said to take the diner on a journey into the culinary heritage of Cyprus. Offering a glimpse into the traditional Cypriot cuisine of the past, most kebab-based meals, including the infamous Cyprus meze, are often incomplete without savouring this sausage.
A UNIQUE FLAVOUR
The unique little sausage represents the island well, and its distinctive texture and flavour have allowed Cypriots to partake in culinary rituals that have spanned the ages. Variations in their creation have also spanned each generation, capturing the hearts and taste buds of many. In light of this, the simple yet extremely tasty sausage has helped to create a culinary ensemble that not only tastes great but tells a story of bygone Cypriot traditions. As a result, Sheftalia are described in many international circles as a masterpiece that whispers tales of Cyprus’s gastronomic legacy through every smoky, grilled bite.
PREPARATION
The crafting of the sausage begins with a blend of simple yet essential ingredients. The preferred meat for creating the inner sanctuary of this succulent sausage is usually minced pork. Other variations use lamb, beef, or a combination of the two or all three. The minced meat is expertly combined with finely chopped onions, aromatic parsley, salt, pepper, and a hint of cinnamon, and sometimes cumin. This flavourful mixture is then tightly crafted within a delicate layer of caul fat. This lace-like membrane from the stomach of a pig or lamb is used instead of the gut or synthetic casings that other conventional sausages use. This casing helps to create a more succulent juiciness and depth of filling after they are carefully grilled over hot coals. This results in a crispy, caramelised outer crust that keeps the interior tender and juicy.
GRILLED PASSION ON A PLATE
The special qualities of this sausage lie in the melting caul fats during the grilling process. This creates an environment that makes each sausage prone to charcoal flare-ups as the caul fat melts and renders away. The exterior smoky char that develops then helps to create a delicate and often juicy crunch with a distinct smoky taste. The harmonious marriage of these textures creates a tantalising balance between the crisp outside and the luscious, moist inside of each sausage.
A VERSATILE DELICACY
Whether traversing the sun-drenched beaches or the winding back streets of Cyprus, the unique sheftalia delicacy can be found everywhere. Highlighting its versatility and range of serving styles, the sizzling sausage is found at most street food stalls, traditional tavernas, and quality restaurants. Tantalising most palates with their exceptional flavour, sheftalia are as much a cultural emblem as a mouth-watering Cypriot delicacy. Often becoming the star player in any mixed kebab scenario when paired alongside pork or chicken souvlaki skewers, anyone seeking a true taste of the culinary soul of Cyprus has to try one. This is emphasised by the unique combination of flavours and textures that make this sausage an essential part of any authentic Cypriot food experience.
A MEAL TO SAVOUR & REMEMBER
Sheftalia can also be enjoyed on their own, along with refreshing dips and a salad of choice. This offers another culinary combination that promises a taste of Cyprus’s authentic charm. Sheftalia also feature proudly amongst the constellation of other Cypriot dishes, as part of a meze spread. A final touch to any shetalia meal is the drizzle of zesty fresh lemon. This goes a long way, elevating the sausage even further to a taste sensation that’s simply irresistible!
RECOMMENDED WINE FOR SHEFTALIES
A FULL-BODIED RED
Several full-bodied RED WINES easily complement the savoury, herb-infused flavours of sheftalia without overpowering them. Wines with good tannin structures pair well with this traditional meal. Some popular options include Cyprus Merlot or Syrah fusions, but it’s the Cabernet Sauvignon that is probably the best choice to accompany these hearty Cypriot sausages.
A COMBINATION OF BOLD FLAVOURS
Cyprus is home to a variety of delicious Cabernet Sauvignon fusion wines. These full-bodied red wines are known for their bold flavour of dark fruit with light spices. This makes these wines a popular choice among several wine enthusiasts. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a hearty traditional Cypriot meal of sheftalies, a bottle of Cyprus Cabernet Sauvignon is sure to impress any wine lover.
