subject: Explore the gastronomic delights of Cyprus [print this page] Explore the gastronomic delights of Cyprus
Cyprus is one of the most popular beach holiday destinations in the Mediterranean, thanks to the bustling party resorts of Ayia Napa, Limassol and Paphos. But as well as its fantastic beaches, water sports and bars, holidaymakers in Cyprus often come back home raving about another important aspect of the island's lifestyle: its unparalleled cuisine. While many people simply interpret Cypriot food as being similar to Greek and Turkish food, cuisine on the island has a character of its own. If you've never visited Cyprus before, here's a quick overview of the gastronomic delights that await.
As in Greece, Turkey and parts of the Middle East, 'meze' is a popular way to eat in Cyprus. Like Spanish tapas, eating meze style involves lots of small dishes. If you're new to Cyprus, this is the ideal way to introduce yourself to local specialities, as well as being a truly authentic way to dine. And if you're travelling with your family, it's also a handy way to get children to try various types of new food and ingredients.
So what can you expect to taste when you have meze in Cyprus? A basic selection of olives and dips - including hummus, tzatziki (strained yoghurt with cucumber and seasoning) and taramasalata (made from fish roe) - will anchor the meal, along with fresh bread. However, local specialities will also feature heavily. A highlight is likely to be one of the island's greatest culinary achievements: halloumi. This hard, salty cheese is usually sliced and lightly fried on either side and is ideal as a snack or as part of a meze selection. Other features may include meatballs, smoked pork, calamari (squid rings), pickled vegetables, salads and grilled meats.
However, not all meals in Cyprus are meze-based. More substantial local dishes incorporate a range of local meat, seafood and vegetables. Standout offerings include moussaka (made from aubergines and minced meat), octopus stiffado (a stew made from red wine, tomatoes and vegetables) and local kebabs, which are usually made from lamb or pork. Preserved pork and salt cod are also traditional favourites with locals and well worth trying.
With so many delicious dishes on offer, it's hard to believe that people on Cyprus holidays have time to do anything but eat. But before you dash back to the beach, spare a thought for dessert. Desserts in Cyprus come in many forms so even if you're still full from your meze or moussaka, you'll always have room for something. Options include a few pieces of Turkish Delight (a gel-like sweet made from rosewater or lemon) with strong coffee or baklava, which is made from layers of filo pastry, chopped nuts and honey. Alternatively, if you're after something more unusual, try a bowl of ashure - a sweet soup that's made from nuts, pulses and dried fruits and is eaten cold.
Isla Campbell writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
