Top 8 unusual products of Northern Cyprus

Cyprus is an amazing island, combining Eastern and Mediterranean traditions. Here you can find products that are not available in other countries, and even familiar foods are often prepared in completely unusual ways.

In this article, we will tell you about the most unusual products of Northern Cyprus and their characteristics.

• Kolokas (Taro)
• Siyah Havuç (Black Carrot)
• Kohlrabi (Cabbage Turnip)
• Bamya (Okra)
• Isırgan Otu (Stinging Nettle)
• Opuntia (Cactus)
• Cypriot Walnut
• Carob Tree (Carob)

Kolokas (Taro)

Kolokas, also known as kolakasi or taro, is a root vegetable traditionally grown in Cyprus. Its taste resembles potatoes with a nutty note. Thanks to the island's climate, the tubers grow large and nutritious. They are boiled, fried, or stewed with meat, onions, and tomatoes. A particularly popular dish is kolokas with lamb in tomato sauce. Read more about dishes made from kolokas.

Siyah Havuç (Black Carrot)

Siyah Havuç is a rare type of carrot, dark purple or almost black in color. This variety has been cultivated in the Middle East for over 5,000 years. It contains 10–12 times more antioxidants than regular carrots and helps reduce cholesterol levels. In Cyprus, it is used to make şalgam juice, found in most supermarkets, and is also used in salads and hot dishes.

Kohlrabi (Cabbage Turnip)

Kohlrabi is a vegetable with a tender texture and a slightly sweet taste, reminiscent of something between cabbage and radish. In Northern Cyprus, it can be found in green and purple varieties. It is best to choose small fruits about 5 cm in diameter. Kohlrabi is rich in magnesium, vitamin C, and phosphorus. Young leaves can be used like spinach — sautéed with garlic or added to soups.

Bamya (Okra)

Bamya, or okra, is known as "lady fingers." Its taste resembles a mix of zucchini, beans, and eggplant, but it has a unique mucilaginous texture, often used to thicken dishes. Okra is fried, stewed with tomatoes and oil, baked with meat, or served as a side dish. The main rule is to use only young, firm pods.

Isırgan Otu (Stinging Nettle)

Isırgan Otu is what Cypriots call stinging nettle, which they are not afraid of but eat! It is boiled and seasoned with lemon juice and olive oil. Often served with eggs or yogurt. In restaurants and homes, nettle salad with pine nuts and fried onions is prepared. Despite its simplicity, this dish is rich in iron and B vitamins.

Opuntia (Cactus)

Opuntia is an edible cactus that literally grows everywhere on the island. Its fruits (so-called "fig pears") have a sweet taste with a slight tang and quench thirst perfectly. Opuntia is used to make jam, syrup, and even liqueurs. How to safely peel and eat this unusual fruit can be read in a separate article.

Cypriot Walnut

In Northern Cyprus, walnuts are used in an unusual way — to make a sweet called murabba. For this, unripe green walnuts are marinated and boiled in syrup, resulting in nearly black nuts with a unique taste. Details can be found in our material.

Carob Tree (Carob)

Carob is the fruit of the carob tree, used in Cyprus for various purposes: to make syrup, flour, sweets, and even liqueur. Fruits are harvested only in a certain season, and unauthorized collection is fined. Carob is rich in calcium, potassium, and fiber, and its taste resembles cocoa. Read more about carob products here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Food in Northern Cyprus

Which drinks are popular?

Among non-alcoholic drinks, ayran (yogurt drink), Turkish coffee, and black tea served in small armudu glasses are especially popular. Among alcoholic drinks, raki — an anise liqueur traditionally served with appetizers — is particularly favored.

Are there unusual desserts?

Yes, Cyprus is known for its original desserts: palouze — a sweet grape pudding, and mahallepi — a milk dessert with rose water.

Which cheeses are considered traditional?

The main symbol of Cyprus is, of course, halloumi. This cheese is fried, served with vegetables, and used in dozens of dishes. More details can be found in the article about halloumi. Other common cheeses include nor — soft whey cheese, feta, and beyaz peynir — Turkish white cheese.

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