Food in Northern Cyprus

Northern Cyprus offers a varied cuisine, combining traditional Cypriot, Turkish and Mediterranean influences.

Here are some typical dishes and ingredients that you can try in Northern Cyprus:

Meze: This is a traditional dish consisting of a variety of snacks served on a communal table. Meze includes olives, cheese, hummus, steamed vegetables, meat dishes and more.

Kebabs: Popular grilled meat dishes. Kebabs can be made from lamb, chicken or fish.

Halloumi: A traditional Cypriot cheese that is often grilled. Halloumi has a unique texture and taste.

Dolma: Grape leaves filled with rice, nuts and herbs. Sometimes meat is added.

Halloumi Salad: Typically contains fresh vegetables such as tomatoes and cucumbers, as well as cubes of halloumi.

Hummus: A paste of crushed lentils or chickpeas mixed with tahini, lemon juice and garlic. Served as an appetizer.

Lahmacun: Thin dough baked with a filling of finely chopped meat, tomatoes, onions and spices.

Mangal Sütlacı: A traditional Turkish dessert similar to rice pudding.

Mevleme: A sweet dish made from walnuts, sugar and honey.

Tea and Coffee: Beverages such as tea and Turkish coffee also play an important role in cooking.

Northern Cyprus is also famous for its fresh fruits and vegetables such as figs, pomegranates, olives and local grape varieties.