Kolokas

🥔Kolokas Recipe from North Cyprus – A Traditional Cypriot Delight

If you’ve ever visited North Cyprus, chances are you’ve come across Kolokas, a beloved root vegetable that has been part of the island’s cuisine for centuries. Known as taro root in other parts of the world, Kolokas holds a special place in Cypriot cooking thanks to its nutty flavour, creamy texture, and versatility in stews and casseroles. In this blog post, we’ll explore the history of Kolokas in North Cyprus, its nutritional benefits, and share an authentic Kolokas recipe you can try at home.
________________________________________

❓What is Kolokas?

Kolokas is a root vegetable native to Southeast Asia but widely cultivated in the Mediterranean, especially in Cyprus. It resembles a large potato or yam but has a unique taste and texture that becomes silky and slightly sweet once cooked.

In North Cyprus cuisine, Kolokas is often prepared with lamb, chicken, or simply with vegetables in a tomato-based sauce. Unlike potatoes, Kolokas should never be cut with a knife, as it becomes slimy; instead, it is broken into chunks by hand to preserve its texture and absorb flavours.
________________________________________

🏛️The History of Kolokas in Cyprus

Kolokas has been grown in Cyprus for hundreds of years, particularly in the Mesaoria plain and villages such as Akdoğan and Kythrea. Traditionally harvested in autumn and winter, Kolokas is considered a comfort food that brings families together around the table.

In North Cyprus, the most popular version of the dish is Kolokas Yemeği – a hearty stew of Kolokas, onions, tomatoes, celery, and meat, simmered slowly to perfection.
________________________________________

🏋Health Benefits of Kolokas

Kolokas isn’t just delicious – it’s also nutritious:

• Rich in fiber for healthy digestion
• High in Vitamin C for immunity
• Contains potassium and magnesium for heart health
• Naturally gluten-free

This makes it a wholesome alternative to potatoes or rice in Cypriot cooking.
________________________________________

🥗Ingredients:

• 1 large Kolokas root (about 1–1.5 kg)
• 500g lamb or chicken pieces (optional for a vegetarian version)
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 2 large tomatoes, peeled and diced (or 1 tin chopped tomatoes)
• 2 sticks of celery, chopped
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp sugar (balances acidity of tomatoes)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
________________________________________

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Kolokas Recipe

🚿 Prepare the Kolokas
• Wash and peel the Kolokas root.
• Instead of cutting with a knife, crack it into chunks using the tip of the knife and snap pieces off.
• This prevents sliminess.

🥘 Cook the Meat (if using)
• In a large pot, heat olive oil and brown the meat until sealed.
• Remove and set aside.

🧄 Sauté Vegetables
• Add onions to the pot and cook until softened.
• Stir in celery and tomatoes.
• Add tomato paste and sugar, mixing well.

🥩 Add Kolokas & Meat
• Return the meat to the pot and add the Kolokas chunks.
• Stir gently to coat everything in the sauce.

♨️ Simmer the Stew
• Add enough water to just cover the ingredients.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Bring to the boil.
• Reduce to a gentle simmer for 45–60 minutes, until the Kolokas and meat are tender.

🍋 Finish with Lemon
• Just before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice into the dish for a tangy finish.

🍽️ Serve Hot
• Garnish with parsley and serve with warm crusty bread or pilav rice.
________________________________________

📝Tips for Cooking Kolokas

• Always break by hand instead of slicing with a knife.
• Adding lemon juice prevents Kolokas from becoming mushy.
• This dish tastes even better the next day after the flavours have developed.
________________________________________

🍽️Serving Suggestions

In North Cyprus, Kolokas is often enjoyed as a family meal alongside rice pilav, fresh bread, and seasonal salads. Pair it with a glass of local red wine for a truly authentic experience.
________________________________________

🌸Final Thoughts

Kolokas is more than just a meal – it’s a taste of Cypriot heritage. Whether you’re visiting the island or recreating it at home, this Kolokas recipe brings the warmth and flavour of traditional Cypriot cooking to your table.