CYPRUS |
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the brine from the halloumi jar and fresh mint leaves , then I drop a knob of butter in as well just to make it more decadent . It ’ s absolutely gorgeous served with some nice hot bread .”
The savory cheese can even be transformed into a gooey dessert , suggests Petros Nikolaou , who holds halloumimaking and basket-weaving demonstrations in the same village as Mrs . Loulla .
“ I learned how to make halloumi cheese from my grandparents ,” he says . “ They used to have goats and when I was a child they showed me how we milk animals .”
At the farmhouse , which dates back to 1850 , visitors can see how he twists and weaves reeds to craft baskets used in the halloumi-making process : “ They ’ re called talaria . It ’ s a very typical basket , we put the cheese inside , we press it , all the whey is coming out and then you have the raw halloumi cheese .”
Petros transfers the flattened rounds into a large pot of boiling whey . “ When you put the halloumi in the pot it will sink to the
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Holy Transfiguration monastery
in Avdellero , Larnaca
bottom ,” he explains . “ When it starts to cook it will float on top of the whey and it ’ s ready .”
Unlike many cheeses that need to be coated in rind and left to ripen for months or even years , fresh halloumi can go from farm to table in around four hours . The mature variety — the kind that ’ s exported all over the world from Cyprus — takes around 40 days nestled in brine to become nicely firm and develop the characteristic salty , minty melange with a hint of piquancy .
Offering advice on home cooking , Marilena ( and all of the other experts I speak to ) is adamant about one thing : “ Don ’ t overcook halloumi . Even if you pan-fry it , just fry it a little . And when it gets a bit brown turn it over and serve it immediately .”
I ’ m confident there ’ s no chance of that happening now as I ’ ve got a list of fresh halloumi recipes to add to my repertoire this summer . Which reminds me , I must add watermelon to my shopping list .
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ESSENTIALS
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When to go : Summers are very hot in Cyprus , particularly in the south . Milder temperatures extend from spring to autumn , making the island an ideal shoulder season or winter sun destination . Currency : Euro Language : Greek and Turkish are the official languages , though many locals speak English . Getting around : Buses are the only
form of public transport . Local taxis and some transport apps including Bolt and Cabcy are available .
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BOOK IT NOW
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Royal Caribbean ’ s sevennight Greece , Cyprus and Turkey itinerary on Brilliance of the Seas takes you to this enchanting island . Book an expansive Royal Suite and get priority check-in and departure along with panoramic views from your private balcony and a dedicated stateroom attendant . Departs Athens , Greece on May 30 , 2025 .
CALL US
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To book your trip to Cyprus , contact our travel agency .
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image : awl images . illustration : lis watkins |
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