Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of Cyprus with our traditional Tyropita. This beloved savory pastry boasts a golden-brown crust that encases a rich and creamy filling of feta cheese, ricotta, and aromatic herbs. Each bite offers a tantalizing blend of tangy cheese and fragrant spices, creating a culinary experience that transports you to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful snack, our Cyprus Tyropita is a testament to the island's culinary heritage, inviting you to savor every moment of its irresistible taste.

Here's a traditional recipe for Cyprus Tyropita:

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the filling:

• 2 cups feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2- To make the dough, in a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the Greek yogurt and olive oil. Mix well until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour.

3- Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll out one portion on a lightly floured surface to fit the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Set aside.

4- In another mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, ricotta cheese, eggs, parsley, mint (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

5- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough in the baking dish.

6- Roll out the second portion of dough to fit the top of the cheese filling. Carefully place it over the filling, pressing the edges to seal.

7- Using a sharp knife, score the top of the pie into desired portion sizes.

8- Optional: Brush the top of the pie with a little olive oil for a golden finish.

9- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.

10- Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your delicious Cyprus Tyropita warm or at room temperature as a delightful snack or side dish!

This recipe yields a classic and flavorful Cyprus Tyropita that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Feel free to adjust the herbs and seasonings according to your taste preferences. Bon appétit!

Nutritional Values:

Here's a rough estimate of the nutritional values for the ingredients used in the Cyprus Tyropita recipe:

All-Purpose Flour (1 cup):

• Calories: 455
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 1.5g
• Carbohydrates: 95g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 0g

benefits:

• Source of carbohydrates for energy.
• Contains some protein for muscle repair and growth.
• Provides small amounts of fiber for digestive health.

Greek Yogurt (1 cup):

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 9g

benefits:

• High in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Good source of calcium for strong bones and teeth.
• Contains probiotics that promote a healthy gut microbiome.

Olive Oil (1 cup):

• Calories: 1910
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 216g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g

benefits:

• Healthy monounsaturated fats support heart health.
• Rich in antioxidants that fight inflammation and oxidative stress.
• May help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Feta Cheese (2 cups, crumbled):

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 8g

benefits:

• Good source of calcium for bone health.
• Provides protein for muscle maintenance and repair.
• Contains probiotics that support digestive health.

Ricotta Cheese (1 cup):

• Calories: 428
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 4g

benefits:

• High in protein, which is important for muscle growth and repair.
• Good source of calcium for bone health.
• Contains vitamin A, which supports vision and immune function.

Eggs (2 large):

• Calories: 140
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 1g

benefits:

• Excellent source of high-quality protein for muscle building.
• Rich in essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin D, B vitamins, and choline.
• Contains antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which promote eye health.

Fresh Parsley (1/4 cup, chopped):

• Calories: 1
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g

benefits:

• Good source of vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting and bone health.
• Contains antioxidants like vitamin C and flavonoids, which fight inflammation and oxidative stress.
• May have diuretic properties that support kidney health.

Fresh Mint (1/4 cup, chopped):

• Calories: 0
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g

benefits:

• Helps aid digestion and alleviate digestive discomfort.
• Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that promote overall health.
• Provides a refreshing flavor and aroma to dishes.

Salt and Pepper: Negligible caloric value

benefits:

• Enhances the flavor of dishes.
• Provides small amounts of essential minerals like sodium and potassium.
• Should be used in moderation to avoid excessive sodium intake.

These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific brands and varieties of ingredients used. Additionally, the serving size and number of servings will also affect the overall nutritional content of the dish.