Sheftalia

Sheftalia is a cherished traditional dish from Cyprus, enjoyed by both locals and visitors. Think of it as a sausage, but without the conventional casing. Instead of the typical sausage skin, Sheftalia uses caul fat, the delicate membrane surrounding a pig or lamb's stomach.

The filling is a savory blend of ground pork or lamb, finely chopped onion, fresh parsley, and a simple seasoning of salt and pepper. This mixture is shaped into small balls and wrapped in the caul fat before being skewered.

When grilled, Sheftalia transforms into a beautiful golden brown as the caul fat renders away, leaving behind a deliciously thin and crispy crust. The name "Sheftalia" derives from the Greek word "σιεφταλιά" and the Turkish "şeftali kebabı" or "şeftali" reflecting the dish's rich cultural heritage.

Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply curious to try something new, Sheftalia is a must-try Cypriot delicacy that brings a taste of tradition and history to the table.