Pilavuna

🥐 Pilavuna Recipe from North Cyprus – Traditional Easter Pastry

Pilavuna is one of the most beloved traditional pastries of North Cyprus. Known for its irresistible mix of sweet and savoury flavours, Pilavuna is a cheese-filled pastry often enjoyed during Easter celebrations but has become a year-round favourite. This Cypriot delicacy is a perfect example of the island’s rich culinary heritage, blending local ingredients such as halloumi cheese, raisins, and mint into a unique treat.

Here t, we’ll explore the history of Pilavuna in Cyprus, its cultural significance, and provide a step-by-step Pilavuna recipe so you can bake this authentic Cypriot pastry in your own kitchen.
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❓What is Pilavuna?

Pilavuna (sometimes called Flaounes in Greek Cyprus) is a savory-sweet pastry that brings together Cyprus’s most iconic ingredient: halloumi cheese. The filling is traditionally made from grated halloumi, eggs, mint, and sometimes raisins or sultanas, all wrapped in a soft, slightly sweet dough. The top of the pastry is coated in sesame seeds, giving it a golden crunch when baked.
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🏛️ History and Cultural Significance of Pilavuna in North Cyprus

Pilavuna has a long-standing role in Cypriot culture, particularly during Easter celebrations. Families across the island gather to bake large trays of these pastries, often preparing them days in advance for family feasts. The combination of cheese and raisins reflects Cyprus’s culinary identity, where sweet and savoury flavours are harmoniously paired.

In North Cyprus, Pilavuna is not only a festive food but also a symbol of togetherness, hospitality, and tradition. Many bakeries still sell fresh Pilavuna daily, especially around Easter, ensuring this cultural gem continues to be enjoyed by new generations.
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🥗Traditional Pilavuna Recipe from North Cyprus

Ingredients

🫓 For the dough:
• 500g plain flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 sachet (7g) instant yeast
• 100ml olive oil
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 250ml warm milk (or water)
• Pinch of salt

🥧 For the filling:
• 300g grated halloumi cheese (or a mix of halloumi and other Cypriot cheeses)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tbsp fresh or dried mint
• 100g raisins or sultanas
• 1 tsp ground mahlep (optional, for extra aroma)

🥚 For finishing:
• 1 egg yolk (for glazing)
• Sesame seeds (for coating)
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✅Instructions

👉 Prepare the dough:
o In a large bowl, mix flour, yeast, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
o Add olive oil and warm milk gradually, kneading until you form a soft, elastic dough.
o Cover and let it rest for 1–2 hours, until doubled in size.

👉 Prepare the filling:
o In a bowl, combine grated halloumi, eggs, mint, raisins, and mahlep if using. Mix well.

👉 Shape the Pilavuna:
o Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
o Roll out the dough into circles about 10–12cm in diameter.
o Place a spoonful of filling in the centre of each circle.
o Fold the edges over the filling into a triangle or square shape, leaving the centre exposed.

👉 Finish and bake:
o Brush the tops with beaten egg yolk.
o Dip the bottoms in sesame seeds or sprinkle over the top.
o Place on a lined baking tray and bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown.
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📝 Tips for Perfect Pilavuna

• Cheese choice: Authentic Pilavuna uses Cypriot halloumi, but you can blend with mild cheeses like cheddar if unavailable.
• Mint: Fresh mint gives the best flavour, but dried mint works beautifully too.
• Storage: Pilavuna keeps well in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or you can freeze and reheat them.
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😋 Why Try Pilavuna?

Pilavuna embodies the soul of Cypriot cuisine – a beautiful balance of savoury cheese, sweet raisins, and aromatic mint. Baking this pastry at home is a wonderful way to connect with the traditions of North Cyprus and bring a taste of the island into your kitchen. Whether enjoyed at Easter or as a snack with tea, Pilavuna is a recipe worth mastering.
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🌸 Final Thoughts

The Pilavuna recipe from North Cyprus is more than just a pastry; it’s a cultural treasure. With its origins in Cypriot Easter traditions and its irresistible blend of flavours, Pilavuna continues to be cherished by locals and visitors alike.

If you’re looking to experience authentic Cypriot cuisine, Pilavuna is a must-try. Bake a batch at home and enjoy a true taste of North Cyprus!