From the Introduction[...]
As you delve into the pages of this book, you’ll discover not only the ingredients and techniques required for Cypriot cooking but also the heart and soul that I’ve poured into each dish. My family and I shared special moments (and filled our bellies) testing these recipes. Each aroma wafting through the kitchen recalled a different story, a different memory. Every recipe and photograph remind me of warmhearted gatherings, just as I’m sure that a taste of your grandmother’s freshly baked pie, a sip of your favorite summer drink, or a bite of that childhood comfort food evokes memories of moments and milestones in your life.
Each recipe tells a story of my personal culinary adventure as I’ve sought to honor my roots while embracing the Canadian experiences and flavors that have become an integral part of my identity. These dishes embrace the richness and diversity of the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern diets. Plus, there are many options for your dietary preferences, whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, or a meat lover.
The recipes themselves include variations and substitutions, so I hope you feel encouraged to embrace their versatility and adaptability. You’ll see how easy it can be to create meals to your preferences while still capturing Cyprus’s culinary essence.
Cypriot cuisine takes advantage of so many in credible agricultural resources grown right on the island, just like those tender olives from my grandfather’s trees. It’s a delicious, vibrant tapestry of fresh fruits and vegetables, aromatic herbs, and wholesome ingredients that celebrate a healthy lifestyle. You’ll find the key ingredients to stock up on in the list of pantry items.
Never once did my family take food for granted; not when we lived in Cyprus, especially when we were forced into the refugee camps, nor when my parents worked to get on their feet here in Canada. It’s been important for me to teach my children not to get caught up in the convenience of a disposable society, and it’s why I’m so passionate about taking a no-waste approach to my recipes. I’ve included tips to revive leftovers from one dish in a completely different recipe. You’ll see how convenient and easy it is to turn leftover bread into crispy, delicious salad add-ins (like in Olive Bread Panzanella Salad with Crispy Capers) or to elevate dressings with extra tahini or talatouri. Part of what I love about cooking is it embodies creativity, culture, and inclusivity. It’s true that we eat with our eyes. Beautifully presented food sets the stage for meaningful conversations, laughter, lasting memories, and healthy appetites. I’ve included serving and presentation tips with the recipes to offer suggestions for how to plate these dishes and which other recipes they pair well with.
I want you to feel as if you’re cooking alongside me. In a world that sometimes feels disconnected and fast-paced, food serves as a reminder to slow down, savor the moment, and relish the simple things. So let’s cherish moments both big and small as we gather around the table. Let’s savor the deliciousness of the food, but also the laughter, the love, and the connections that each bite brings.
Copyright © 2025 by Irene Matys. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
