Cypriot cuisine is a melting pot of flavors and influences from Greece, Turkey, and the Middle East. From savory meats to fresh seafood and flavorful vegetarian dishes, there’s something for every palate. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at 10 must-try traditional Cypriot dishes that will leave your taste buds satisfied.
1. Souvla
Souvla is a popular meat dish that’s similar to Greek souvlaki. It’s made with large chunks of meat, such as lamb or pork, that are marinated in herbs and spices and then grilled over an open flame. Souvla is typically served with pita bread, fresh salad, and tzatziki sauce.
2. Halloumi
Halloumi is a type of cheese that’s made from a mixture of sheep and goat’s milk. It has a unique texture that’s firm and slightly rubbery, and a salty flavor. Halloumi is often grilled or fried and served as a side dish or as a vegetarian main course. Click here to learn more about the history of halloumi.
3. Souvlaki - Sheftalia
Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish that has made its way into Cypriot cuisine. It consists of small pieces of marinated meat (typically chicken, lamb, or pork) that are skewered and grilled to perfection. Souvlaki is usually served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a side salad and sieftalia (optional). Sieftalia, a type of 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.
4. Ofto 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 flavor.
5. Keftedes (cypriot meatballs)
Keftedes are small meatballs that are typically made with ground beef or pork, onions, garlic, and herbs. They’re often served as a meze dish and are perfect for sharing. Click here for our Keftedes recipe!
6. Koupepia (stuffed vine leaves)
Koupepia, also known as dolmades, are stuffed grape leaves that are filled with a mixture of ground meat, rice, and herbs. They’re typically served as a meze dish and are a staple of Cypriot cuisine. Click here for our koupepia recipe!
7. Makaronia tou fournou (oven baked macaroni)
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. Click here for our recipe!
8. Loukoumades
Loukoumades is a traditional Cypriot dessert that is similar to doughnuts. They are small, round, and fried to a golden brown. Once cooked, they are coated in honey and sprinkled with cinnamon. Click here for our loukoumades recipe!
9. Afelia (marinated pork in red wine)
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. Click here for our afelia recipe!
10. Cypriot 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 fried until golden brown. Click here for our Koupes recipe!
In conclusion, Cyprus is a food lover’s paradise, and these ten must-try dishes are just the beginning. From the savory 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 flavors tell stories of the island’s history, its Mediterranean influences, and the love and care that goes into each dish. Whether you’re 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
