Kyopolou

Kyopolou is a delectable spread, relish, and salad that originates from Bulgaria and Turkey. This versatile dish is primarily made from roasted eggplants and garlic, but you'll often find it enriched with other flavorful ingredients like roasted bell peppers, kapia red peppers, tomatoes, onions, parsley, black pepper, bay leaves, and hot peppers.

The flavor profile of Kyopolou can vary considerably. Sometimes it's light and sweet, while at other times it delivers a hot and peppery kick. Traditionally, it is cooked in the oven using pots or casseroles. People enjoy it in various ways—spread on bread, used as a condiment, or even eaten as a salad.

One of the appealing aspects of Kyopolou is that it can be preserved in glass jars for enjoyment throughout the winter. It's particularly popular in Bulgaria during the summer and autumn months, especially during Orthodox fasting periods.

This delightful treat is not unique to Bulgaria and Turkey; similar relishes are enjoyed across the Balkans, each with their own twist and name. For example, you might come across ajvar or pinđur in other Balkan countries. In Romania, a similar dish called zacuscă exists, with its name sharing Slavic roots with the Bulgarian and Russian word zakuska.

Whether you're spreading it on bread or enjoying it as a side dish, Kyopolou is a flavorful and versatile addition to any meal.