NORTH CYPRUS CUISINE
The Cypriot cuisine has been influenced by different cultures throughout history. Therefore, there isn’t any dish, we would describe as only “Cypriot”. However, with little variations from their originals Cypriots have developed quite tasty dishes. Each dish has its own flavor and cooking, and presentation reflects the character of the people of Cyprus as well as the availability of locally grown vegetables. “Molehiya” is Arab in origin but through generations this dish has changed to appeal to Cypriot preferences both in preparation, flavor, and presentation. Some dishes even vary from region to. Northern Cyprus is fascinating and appealing to people who eat well and enjoy a well prepared and tasty dish. Vegetarians and vegans will find many choices in the typical Cypriot Cuisine.
A great variety of vegetable dishes, grills, pastry, fish, soups, kebabs, lahmacun, pides are to name but a few. A big list of mezes, sweets, cakes, eaten either as starters or as desserts can be named. In addition to local cuisine Chinese, Italian, French and Indian foods are well represented in various restaurants around the island, and in Kyrenia in particular.
Mezes
Main Dishes
Anyone who visits North Cyprus or has a meal in a Turkish Cypriot home, regardless of the success of the cook, will surely notice how unique the cuisine is. Main courses normally include mixed type of meats or fish.
Meats grilled over charcoal are known as “şiş”, named after the skewers on which they are prepared. Most common are lamb chops, grilled chicken, seftali kebab, but also grilled hellim cheese, and mushrooms, are unique to the Turkish Cypriots.
Desserts and Pastries
Drinks
Ingredients
Frequently used ingredients are fresh vegetables such as zucchini, green peppers, okra, green beans, artichokes, carrots, tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce and grape leaves, and pulses such as beans, broad beans, peas, black-eyed beans, chickpeas, and lentils. Pears, apples, grapes, oranges, Mandarin oranges, nectarines, blackberries, cherries, strawberries, figs, watermelon, melon, avocado, citrus, lemon, pistachio, almond, chestnut, walnut, hazelnut are some of the common fruits and nuts.
