Dive into the culinary heritage of Cyprus with our tantalizing Taramasalata. This classic Mediterranean dip boasts a velvety texture and a burst of flavors that will transport you to the sun-kissed shores of Cyprus. Crafted from the finest ingredients, including cured fish roe, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic, our Taramasalata encapsulates the essence of Cypriot cuisine. Whether paired with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as a luxurious spread on crackers, indulge in a taste of Cyprus with every savory bite. Elevate your dining experience and embrace the rich cultural tapestry of Cyprus with our exquisite Taramasalata.

Here's a traditional recipe for Cyprus Taramasalata:

Ingredients:

• 200g (7 oz) of fish roe (typically carp or cod roe)
• 2 slices of day-old bread, crusts removed
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 small onion, grated
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnishes: chopped parsley, olives, or capers

Instructions:

1- Soak the slices of bread in water for a few minutes, then squeeze out excess water. Tear the bread into small pieces and place them in a mixing bowl.

2- In a separate bowl, gently rinse the fish roe under cold water to remove any excess salt.

3- Using a mortar and pestle or a food processor, mash the fish roe until it forms a smooth paste.

4- Add the mashed fish roe to the bowl with the soaked bread. Mix in the grated onion and minced garlic.

5- Gradually add the olive oil and lemon juice to the mixture, stirring continuously until you achieve a smooth consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6- Transfer the Taramasalata to a serving dish and drizzle with a little extra olive oil. Garnish with chopped parsley, olives, or capers if desired.

7- Refrigerate the Taramasalata for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

8- Serve the Cyprus Taramasalata as a dip with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, or crackers. Enjoy the rich and creamy flavors of this classic Mediterranean dish!

Nutritional Value:

Here are approximate nutritional values for the main ingredients used in Cyprus Taramasalata:

Fish Roe (200g):

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 13g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Cholesterol: 1000mg (approximate, can vary based on type of fish roe)

benefits:

• Rich source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Contains omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and brain function.
• Provides vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus.

Bread (2 slices):

• Calories: 130 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g

benefits:

• Supplies carbohydrates, the body's primary energy source.
• Contains dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes feelings of fullness.
• Provides small amounts of protein and essential nutrients like B vitamins and iron.

Olive Oil (1/2 cup):

• Calories: 960 kcal
• Fat: 108g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Healthy source of monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Contains antioxidants, such as vitamin E, that protect cells from damage.
• May have anti-inflammatory properties and contribute to overall well-being.

Lemon Juice (1/4 cup):

• Calories: 8 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 2.6g
• Sugars: 0.4g
• Vitamin C: 15mg

benefits:

• Excellent source of vitamin C, which boosts immune function and promotes skin health.
• Provides antioxidants that help fight free radicals and reduce inflammation.
• Supports digestion and may aid in detoxification processes.

Onion (1 small):

• Calories: 40 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 1.5g
• Sugars: 4.7g
• Protein: 1.2g

benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants like quercetin, which may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects.
• Contains prebiotic fibers that nourish beneficial gut bacteria and support digestive health.
• Provides vitamins C and B6, as well as folate and potassium.

Garlic (2 cloves):

• Calories: 10 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0.1g
• Protein: 0.4g

benefits:

• Contains compounds like allicin, which have antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties.
• May help lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure, promoting heart health.
• Provides antioxidants that protect against oxidative damage and support overall health.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary depending on factors such as the specific brands of ingredients used and any variations in preparation methods. Additionally, the nutritional values provided are based on standard reference data and may not be exact for every instance.