Traditional Food in Cyprus: A Journey of Flavors
Cyprus is an amazing country. It has a great history and wonderful culture. But did you know that it’s traditional food even ranks equally for its presence. Its food are Greek, Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine based. The Cypriot diet is something very alive, fresh and full of flavors. Whether you are a vegan, a vegetarian or a non vegetarian, there is always something available for everyone in this paradise.
Hence, today in this blog, we try to explore the best traditional food in Cyprus that caters to different food preferences, and also where to find these mouthwatering dishes. As we go on, we will even highlight the health benefits of each food item. So, without wasting any more time, let’s jump in the journey of a food lover. Also if you need help to apply for a Cyprus Visa from the UK, go through the details at the end of this blog.
Traditional Food in Cyprus for Vegans
Grilled meats dishes are very famous in Cyprus. But now you can even get a diverse range of delicious and wholesome vegan options too. This particular Mediterranean diet places emphasis on fresh vegetables, nuts, legumes and olive oil. And this is how it allows vegans to enjoy some of the best traditional Cypriot food.
Fasolada, also known as Bean Soup
This is a traditional food in Cyprus that is quite hearty, full of flavours, and absolutely plant-based. It has got tomatoes, beans, onions, olive oil, and herbs. It is a simple food that has rich flavours compared to other traditional foods in Cyprus. Add some crusty bread to enjoy it wholly.
Health Benefits: It is a great source of protein and fiber, mostly because of the beans. Plus points, it’s low-fat too. As we come to the tomatoes, they provide a good dose of vitamins C and A, while the olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats.
Where to Try: To get the authentic taste of Fasolada, go to this great place “ To Kafe Tis Chrysanthi”. It is a family-owned cafe in Limassol. Moreover, you get a variety of other Cypriot dishes that are vegan-friendly.
Kolokotes, also known as Pumpkin Pastries
These are some of the best pastries. It is made from pumpkin, onions and herbs. Finally it is wrapped in a flaky dough. You will find this traditional snack in almost every village. Moreover, it is truly a great choice for vegans who like to enjoy some savory.
Health Benefits: The dish contains fiber, vitamins A and C from the pumpkin. This is why Kolokotes are famous for offering nourishing treat. The dish has so many antioxidants that it promotes a great benefit for healthy skin and eyes.
Where to Try: We recommend that if you are in Nicosia, then definitely go to “ Pae Kafeneio “. This place offers you freshly made Kolokotes that are absolutely perfect for vegan diets.
Hummus and Tahini
This is a different kind of dish that is not so exclusive to Cyprus but known to ve staple food in Cypriot cuisine. As the name suggests, Hummus and Tahini, are prepared with chickpeas and sesame seeds. Vegans love it across the whole island.
Health Benefits: Hummus provides plant-based protein and fiber. The tahini provides healthy fats along with calcium and iron. Together, there are equally tasty and nutrient-rich dishes.
Where to Try: If you ever visit Larnaca, then do visit “ Limanaki Fish Tavern “. Do not get discouraged by the name, as there are many vegan friendly dips available, especially hummus and tahini.
Traditional Food in Cyprus for Vegetarians
The next part lets help our beloved vegetarian food lovers with the wealth of delicious dishes in Cyprus. Right from the cheese-based dishes to wholesome vegetable stews, the traditional food in Cyprus offers many options for vegetarians.
Halloumi Cheese
You cannot complete your touring without trying the great traditional food in Cyprus known as Halloumi. This famous cheese is made from a mix of goat and sheep’s milk. It has a distinct texture and the best flavor. Most of the time, Halloumi is grilled or fried. However, you can enjoy it fresh too.
Health Benefits: This is a great source of calcium, which is mandatory for strong bones and teeth. Furthermore, it has enough protein and healthy fats. But that doesn’t mean one should hog as many as possible. It should be taken in moderation due to its high salt content.
Where to Try: Back to Nicosia again, try the famous restaurant “ Ouzeri Tou Savas”. It sells one of the best grilled Halloumi plates paired with fresh bread and tomatoes.
Moussaka: The Vegetarian Version
This is a beloved dish that falls on the list of must-try traditional foods in Cyprus. Normally, it is non-vegetarian, but after omitting the meat and substituting it with vegetables like eggplant, potatoes, and zucchini, now it’s a perfect vegetarian food. Additionally it has a leayer with bechamel sauce which is completely rich, creamy and satisfying.
Health Benefits: The vegetarian version of Moussaka has lots of fiber and antioxidants. While the bechamel sauce adds a bit of protein from the milk.
Where to Try: A great place to try this is in Limassol, known as “Pithari Tavern”, which offers one of the finest Moussakas. Locals just love it.
Stifado: The Vegetarian Version
Normally, Stifado is a meat stew. For vegetarian version, the dish has got vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, and carrots. The stew is cooked very slowly. Finally flavored with wine, onions, and spices to make it a fulfilling meal.
Health Benefits: The dish provides a great source of vitamins and minerals with the combination of vegetables. Red wine provides antioxidants. You get abundant nutrients due to the process of slow cooking.
Where to Try: The special place called “ Tavernaki “ in Paphos is famous for offering vegetarian versions of traditional Cypriot dishes. Thus, one of their delicious cuisines is the vegetarian Stifado.
Feta Cheese Salad
It is a unique Cypriot salad which is a staple local diet. Generally the dish consists of fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, onions and chunks of feta cheese. Finally dressed with olive oil and sprinkled with oregano.
Health Benefits: As most of the content is full of vegetables, it provides essential vitamins. While the feta cheese provides calcium and protein. As far as olive oil is concerned, it provides heart healthy fats which in combination makes a balanced dish.
Where to Try: The only one “ Salamina Cafe” in Limassol offers you the authentic Feta Cheese Salad. It truly captures the true essence of traditional food in Cyprus.
Read More – Dubrovnik Summer Festival: A Celebration of Arts and Culture
Traditional Food in Cyprus for Non-Vegetarians
Now comes the fascinating details about meat lovers. Great news, Cyprus is filled with grilled meats, hearty stews, and seafood. The traditional food in Cyprus for non-vegetarians offers a diverse range of flavors.
Kleftiko, also known as the Lamb Stew
This is a traditionally prepared lamb dish. First, the meat is buried in the ground and then cooked over hot coals. Then the lamb is marinated with herbs, garlic, and lemon, and slowly cooked, which is the reason for its tender and flavorful dish.
Health Benefits: The lamb provides a great amount of protein along with some essential vitamins such as B12. It provides extra antioxidants and fiber.
Where to Try: The best Kleftiko dish that is prepared in the traditional Cypriot way is found in “Vasilis Tavern “ in Larnaca.
Sheftalia, also known as the Cypriot Sausages
This traditional Cypriot sausage is main based on minced pork or lamb. Next, mixed with herbs and wrapped in caul fat. Then, sausages are grilled to perfection. Finally, served with fresh bread or salad.
Health Benefits: It has good source of protein. Consume in moderation due to the fat content. The herbs and spices offer a lot of anti-inflammatory benefits.
Where to Try: A popular spot for meat lovers is “Kamares Tavern” in Paphos.
Souvla, also known as Grilled Meat Skewers
This is a very common Cypriot dish menu at restaurants across the whole island. Additionally, the large pieces of marinated pork, lamb, or chicken are skewered and grilled over charcoal. Together, it creates a smoky, juicy flavor.
Health Benefits: Souvla is high in protein and iron. Moreover, as you pair it with fresh vegetables, it makes a balanced meal.
Where to Try: In Limassol, go to “ Ouzeri Diona “ which is one of the best places to enjoy some freshly prepared Souvla. You can have delightful options of meat to choose from.
Cypriot Seafood
As Cyprus contains many coastal locations, it is a prime location for finding seafood. This plays a major role in traditional food in Cyprus. Furthermore, notable options are grilled octopus, fried calamari, and fresh fish. They are popular across the whole island. You can get some extra vegetables or salad too.
Health Benefits: Any seafood contains rich omega-3 fatty acids. It is truly beneficial for heart health. Furthermore it provides a great source of lean protein and essential vitamins and minerals.
Where to Try: For fresh seafood, you should go to “ The Fisherman’s Wharf “ in Larnaca. It truly offers an unforgettable dining experience in Cyprus right by the water.
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Final Thoughts
Thus, considering all the traditional foods in Cyprus, it is quite diverse, as is the culture of the island. You get a variety of dishes curated specially for vegans, vegetarians and non vegetarians. Right from the fresh salads to slow cooked stews and mouth watering grilled meats , the cuisine of Cyprus truly shows a grand celebration of fresh, local ingredients.
So, whether you plan on exploring the lively streets of Nicosia, the stunning coastal beauty of Limassol, or the charming villages in the Troodos mountains, there are plenty of places where you can explore and savor these delicious dishes. We hope that the recommended dishes at the eateries will be helpful in planning your itinerary.
FAQs
- Are the traditional foods in Cyprus very spicy?
Generally, no. Most of the Cypriot food is seasoned with herbs like oregano, mint, and cinnamon. Hence, the food is not very spicy.
- Are there food tours in Cyprus?
Yes absolutely! If you consider cities like Nicosia, Paphos, and Limassol , there you can get walking food tours which will give the opportunity to try authentic traditional food in Cyprus.
- Is tap water safe to drink in Cyprus?
Yes, tap water is absolutely safe. However, as per locals and seasoned tourists, they mostly prefer packaged water bottles.
- What sort of drinks pair well with traditional food in Cyprus?
You can try the local wines, Commandaria, which is a sweet dessert wine, and Zivani, which is a Cypriot spirit, as a great combination with food.
