Cyprus Meze by Holiday Island Cyprus
Even before I first holidayed in Cyprus I had heard of The Meze, people spoke of it with a certain awe and fondness. Not wanting to feel left out I would nod knowingly as if I ate them all the time and could think of nothing worse than someone who didn’t. Now with years of Cyprus eating behind me, I can say that I still believe this to be true. I used to eat them far too frequently when I lived in Cyprus, and now when I return with friends or family for a visit, I manage to squeeze in at least one Meze.
So what is this Meze you speak of?
Basically it is an opportunity to try and myriad of Cypriot dishes. The exact contents of a Meze vary from restaurant to cafe to tavern, and from North to south and east to west. However, one thing you are almost always guaranteed (and this is its appeal to me!) is a good portion of what is provided.
Normally either a fish or meat Meze is offered, although some places will provide a vegetation option also. It is similar in style to the Spanish concept of Tapas.
It traditionally starts with a large Greek salad, pita, and dips including hummus, taramasalata and Tsatziki. While that is being consumed, the meatier options start appearing, these can include:
Sheftalia (Cypriot herb Sausage)
Souvlakia (grilled pork cubes)
Calamari (Squid rings)
Grilled Chicken
Grilled lamb chops
Stifado (beef stew)
Catch of the day
Lountza (a gammon like meat)
Loukanika (blood sausage)
The list really does go on, and I have seen many a large appetite beaten by the meze. However, it is the single best way of sampling as many Cypriot dishes as possible in one sitting Bon Appetite!
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