Seftalies Traditional Cypriot dish. 2024

Sheftalies are one of the most beloved traditional Cypriot dishes, known for their juicy taste and the aroma of spices. Below you will find an authentic recipe for homemade sheftalies that you will love!

Traditional Cypriot Seftalies

Ingredients (for about 10 sheftalies)

• 500 g minced meat (half pork – half beef)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 tomato, grated
• 2 slices of bread, soaked and drained
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg (optional for better consistency)
• 10 pieces of Caul fat ( pork fat, cleaned)

Instructions

1. Preparing the filling: In a bowl, mix the minced meat, onion, tomato, bread, parsley, cumin, cinnamon, salt and pepper. If desired, add the egg to help the mixture bind better. Knead well and leave the mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
2. Preparing the graft: Rinse the Caul fat well with lukewarm water to soften it. Cut into square pieces (approximately 10×10 cm).
3. Wrapping: Take a portion of the minced meat and form it into a small cylindrical patty. Place the minced meat on a piece of Caul fat and wrap tightly so that it is completely covered.
4. Grilling:
   • On the coals: Grill the sheftalies over high heat for about 15-20 minutes, turning them frequently until they are evenly browned.
   • In the oven: Bake at 200°C for 25-30 minutes, until crispy on the outside.

Seftalies Cypriot dish Serving

Served warm in a pita with tomato, cucumber, onion and a little yogurt or tahini. They go perfectly with a rustic salad and french fries!

Enjoy!