Northern Cyprus is a place of unique Mediterranean beauty, fascinating with its historical and cultural richness. Here, food is not only for filling the stomach, but also part of a ritual that strengthens social ties and reinforces friendships. One of the most beautiful reflections of this culture is the meze tables. In Northern Cyprus, appetizer culture is an indispensable part of pleasant times spent with friends, long conversations and unforgettable memories.
What is appetizer and Why is it so Special?
Appetizers consist of a variety of dishes served in small portions and usually shared before the main course. An indispensable part of Mediterranean cuisine, appetizers decorate tables with their different flavors and colors. Appetizers are a symbol of sharing and being together.
Appetizer Culture in Northern Cyprus
The appetizer culture of Northern Cyprus is rooted in a long history and this rich culinary tradition has been shaped by the accumulation of centuries. This mosaic of flavors formed with the influence of Ottoman, Greek, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines is evident in every type of appetizer. Appetizers, especially with raki, are an integral part of long and enjoyable meals in Cyprus.
Appetizers You Must Try in Northern Cyprus
The appetizer culture in Northern Cyprus is full of unique flavors that reflect the rich history of the island and the influence of various civilizations. Here are some meze varieties that you must taste in Northern Cyprus:
Sea Cowpea
Sea cowpea is a plant that grows near the sea and has a slightly salty flavor. It is prepared by flavoring it with olive oil and lemon juice. This flavor, which brings the taste of the sea to the table, is preferred as a light starter, especially in summer. In addition to being a healthy option with the minerals it contains, it is also appreciated for the refreshing taste it leaves on the palate and perfectly harmonizes with seafood.
Stuffed Zucchini Blossom
Fresh zucchini flowers are picked early in the morning and stuffed with rice, onions, tomatoes, olive oil and various spices. The delicate structure of the thin zucchini flowers makes this appetizer light and delicious. It is especially preferred as a refreshing option in summer.
Halloumi
Halloumi, a type of cheese unique to Cyprus, is one of the most well-known flavors of the island cuisine. It is served grilled or fried and consumed hot and warm. It appeals to every palate with its crispy outer surface and soft inner texture. Especially halloumi grilled halloumi is a must in Cyprus taverns and is served in half a Cyprus pita bread with a slice of grilled halloumi and a baked tomato.
Pomegranate fried halloumi, which is also indispensable for traditional Cypriot breakfasts, goes perfectly with tomatoes and cucumbers.
Potato Bullez
Potato bullez is a fried dish native to Cyprus and is made with bullez, the smallest of the kolakas plants. This delicious appetizer is prepared by frying small, round and thin-skinned bullez potatoes and served with whole fried potatoes of its own size. In Cypriot cuisine, bullez can be enjoyed both on its own and with other appetizers. The fried bullez and potatoes are served hot with a squeeze of lemon.
Çakıstes
It is prepared with pine nuts, green olives, lemon, garlic and golyandro (coriander) seeds. It is frequently consumed in Northern Cyprus, especially at breakfast and appetizer tables. It also goes perfectly with tomatoes and cucumbers.
Ayrelli
Ayrelli, a type of wild asparagus native to Northern Cyprus, has a very special place in island cuisine. This plant, which is cooked in all kinds of dishes, is usually eaten cooked with eggs and is both nutritious and delicious. It can be boiled and served with lemon and olive oil or fried as an appetizer in taverns.
Samarella
Samarella is an appetizer made with salted and dried goat or lamb meat. It is served thinly sliced and is intensely flavored. It is usually consumed with wine, raki or Cypriot brandy.
Magarina Bulli (Cyprus Pasta)
Magarina Bulli is an essential part of Cypriot cuisine. This special dish is prepared with pasta cooked in chicken broth. It is topped with grated Cypriot halloumi and served with fried chicken pieces. It is a flavor that is frequently preferred both in daily meals and special appetizer tables.
Pickled Gabbar
Gabbar pickle is a special pickle made from the branches and leaves of the miraculous caper plant native to Cyprus. Its sour and salty flavor is an indispensable complement to appetizers and salads. It is especially perfect with meat dishes.
Garavolli
Garavolli is a type of snail commonly consumed in Cyprus. Especially in the Karpaz region, large snails are preferred and are called rams. Generally consumed during the winter months, ram garavolli are cleaned thoroughly after being collected and boiled several times. After this process, the snails are served with a mixture of lemon, olive oil and vinegar. Garavolli is also often pickled and consumed.
The variety of appetizer on this list reflects only a small part of Cypriot cuisine. There are also fresh beetroot, cured meats, seafood and many more delicious options.
The Place of Appetizer Culture in Social Life
Appetizer is not only a meal in Cypriot culture, but also a social activity. Appetizer tables offer the opportunity to meet with friends, eat with long conversations and share these pleasant moments. These tables become the center of both delicious food and sincere conversations.
This culture, which best reflects the friendly and inviting atmosphere of Cyprus, is also a sign of hospitality. The appetizers served to the guests reflect the generosity of the host and the value they give to their guests.
Suggestions for Appetizer Experience in Northern Cyprus
If you want to explore the appetizer culture, be sure to visit the fish restaurants in the renovated Kyrenia Ancient Port and the traditional Cypriot taverns in Nicosia. Restaurants along the island’s coastline are also known for their seafood and mezze, offering the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean. These are great places to sample traditional appetizer dishes and experience true Cypriot hospitality.
When you come to Northern Cyprus, you should definitely have this unique experience by sitting at a appetizer table. These tables, which bring people together, where sincere conversations are established with delicious food, are a great opportunity to feel the cultural richness and warmth of the island.
