Discover the flavours of Cyprus

Halloumi: the traditional cheese of Cyprus

Halloumi is synonymous with Cyprus. Its origin can be traced back to the ancient history. Halloumi (fresh and mature) is a cheese produced from sheep or goat milk or a mixture of the two, with or without cow milk. It is white, elastic and relatively soft cheese which hardens as it matures. The cheese is usually folded over onto itself and presented in semicircular or rectangular shapes. Leaves of fresh or dried mint are added. The value and quantities of halloumi shipped around the world has increased yearly, and currently is exported to more than 40 countries.

Gastronomy: The particularity of Halloumi not to melt at high temperatures allows it to be consumed both as it is, as well as fried and grilled. Furthermore, Halloumi is consumed in soups, it complements watermelon, or is grated onto pasta. It is also used as an ingredient in various baked goods (e.g. pies).

Certification: Halloumi is registered under two certification trademarks in Cyprus through the Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry of the Republic of Cyprus. Halloumi is also registered as an EU Collective Trade Mark in the European Union. Both the Certification Trade Marks and the EU Collective Mark shall be used only in relation to cheese made in Cyprus conforming to the standards and specifications of certain Regulations. Cyprus also retains the trademark in a number of other countries including the US and Jordan.

Cyprus red soil potato

Cyprus red soil potatoes are famous for their excellent flavour and firm texture. They are easily distinguished by their reddish skin, obtained from the fertile red soil of Kokkinohoria (red soil villages) in the eastern region of Cyprus, where they are cultivated. They are also cultivated in the region west of Nicosia (Akaki, Peristerona and Astromeritis). Cyprus potatoes are cooked in various ways such as oven-baked, boiled, fried, stuffed, and mashed. They are also used as an ingredient in many other dishes.

Fruit and vegetables

Cyprus has justifiably gained a reputation in international markets as "The Garden of the Mediterranean". Cyprus harvests a full range of citrus products plus fruits such as melons and figs as well as subtropical items such as avocados. Incredible assortments of vegetables flourish in Cyprus and they too are favored with long seasonal availability. Most are available in several varieties and include artichokes, eggplant, green beans, sweet peppers, chilies, zucchini and potatoes.

Fruit juices

Freshly-picked apples, oranges, lemons, peaches, grapes and grapefruits go into the Cypriot fruit juices, smoothies and concentrates available to the export market. Additive-free juice drinks are sold in varying sizes in attractively-designed Tetra-Pak cartons.