While the food is delicious, dining in Cyprus is also an experience. Here are some of the most special Cypriot dishes that you really must try next time you are visiting Cyprus…

Cyprus is a food lover’s dream destination. Even the well-travelled will find something unique and special when dining on traditional Cypriot cuisine. The island is located at the crossroads of three continents, Europe, Asia, and Africa, and so over the centuries, the food of Cyprus has been influenced by each of these different areas, creating a cuisine unlike anything else in the world. The food in Cyprus is fresh, healthy, and packed full of flavour. While the food is delicious, dining in Cyprus is also an experience. The food here is something to be savoured, so set aside plenty of time for your meals, take it easy, embrace the Mediterranean lifestyle, and relax over a leisurely lunch with friends and family. Here are some of the most special Cypriot dishes that you really must try next time you are visiting Cyprus…

Koupepia

Koupepia is a hugely popular meze dish that should be top of your ‘must try’ list. This mouth-watering blend of minced meat, rice, onion, and spices is wrapped up in fresh grapes leaves and cooked to perfection. Traditionally associated with vineyards, if you take a trip to one of the many wineries in Cyprus, you may be lucky enough to find koupepia to sample alongside the exquisite local wines.

Halloumi

Halloumi cheese is famous around the world for its unique texture and flavour, but its home is here in Cyprus. it is believed to be a healthier cheese option as it is made without preservatives. Halloumi is traditionally made from a mixture of sheep and goat’s milk and the recipe is one of the oldest on earth, dating back to the 4^th century during the Medieval Byzantine period.

Souvla

If you like barbecued meat, then you will love souvla. Being a sun-filled country, it’s perhaps no surprise that cooking outdoors on an open flame is a tradition here. Souvla is made from either pork, beef, lamb, or chicken, slowly grilled on a skewer, and it is usually served in pita bread with salad, tzatziki yoghurt sauce, and fried potatoes. It’s a dish that is popular at celebrations, and you’ll have no trouble finding a local restaurant serving this delectable delicacy.

Pilafi

Pilafi is a dish made from bulgar wheat. It’s both tasty and filling so it makes a great start to the day as a breakfast dish, but it can also be served as a side dish. For breakfast, it is usually cooked with milk, sugar, and honey, otherwise, you’ll often find it served up with tomato puree, onions, and sometimes chopped macaroni too. It’s low in calories and high in fibre making it a great healthy-eating option.

Sheftalies

Sheftalies are another barbecue favourite. Mini meatballs made from spiced minced pork or lamb wrapped in omentum. The word ‘sheftalia’ comes from the Turkish word for peach, as these little delicacies look rather like a juicy peach. They can be eaten in pita bread or dipped into tzatziki or hummus. 

Distinctive dishes with a long tradition

These unique dishes have a rich history and huge cultural significance. The recipes have been passed down and enjoyed by many generations of Cypriots over the centuries and now you’re lucky enough to be able to sample them yourself. It’s so easy to eat well in Cyprus, making it simple to enjoy a healthy diet if you’re visiting as a medical tourist. For more information on how we can assist you on your medical journey in Cyprus, please visit our website, or get in touch if you have any questions. We’re always here to help.