Sheftali Kebab: A Famous Dish of Northern Cyprus

A type of meat you are almost certain to encounter in any establishment in Northern Cyprus. Did you know that "şeftali" means "peach" in Turkish?

• Sheftali Kebab in Northern Cyprus
• The Origin of the Peach Name
• Sheftali Kebab Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions About Food in Northern Cyprus

Sheftali Kebab in Northern Cyprus

No visit to Northern Cyprus is complete without trying this traditional dish – unless you're a vegetarian, of course. You can find it in almost any eatery on the island where the word “Kebab” appears.

Sheftali is a type of skinless sausage wrapped in lamb fat or caul fat, a membrane surrounding the lamb's stomach.

The filling is made from lamb shoulder or leg, finely chopped onions, parsley, salt, and pepper. It is shaped into small balls or sausages, wrapped in fat, skewered, or grilled until golden brown. A detailed recipe awaits you below.

When served, the outer fat layer melts into a thin golden-brown crust. The dish is traditionally served on Cypriot pita bread with salad, bulgur wheat, and Turkish yogurt dip with cucumber, olive oil, and mint.

The Origin of the Peach Name

For those curious about the name, there are two theories on how this beloved local dish got its name. The Turkish word "şeftali" means "peach," which, according to one theory, refers to its texture and pink color when cooked.

Another legend suggests the recipe was invented by a Turkish Cypriot street vendor named Ali. Foreigners who tried the delicacy nicknamed it "Şef Ali" (Chef Ali), and his sausage became known as "Şef Ali Kebab," later shortened by Turkish Cypriots to "Şeftali Kebab."

Sheftali Kebab Recipe

Below is a tried-and-true recipe for making Sheftali Kebab, serving approximately 5 people (20 sausages).

Ingredients for Sheftali Kebab

• 500g lamb fat
• 500g lamb mince
• 500g beef mince (minimum 18% fat)
• 4 onions, finely chopped
• 1 bunch parsley, finely chopped
• 6 tsp kofte seasoning
• 1 tsp salt

How to Prepare Sheftali Kebab

1. About an hour before cooking, wash the lamb fat, clean off excess fat, and soak it in a bowl of water with 2 tablespoons of vinegar. Let it sit for an hour. Meanwhile, light your barbecue – the coals should be hot without open flames to prevent the kebabs from burning.
2. Mix the kofte seasoning (available in most stores), chopped onion, parsley, and salt with the lamb and beef mince. Knead well to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
3. Shape the mixture into small patties roughly the length of your palm. Roll them gently to create smooth sausages. You should get about 20 portions. Place them on a clean tray.
4. Lay a large piece of lamb fat on a clean cutting board. Place one meat sausage at the edge of the fat. Roll it up, tucking the ends neatly. Use a sharp knife to trim the fat, then set it aside on a clean tray. Repeat until all sausages are wrapped.
5. Thread the wrapped sausages onto flat skewers, leaving some space between each one for even cooking.
6. Once the coals are white-hot with no flames, grill the skewers for 15–20 minutes, turning regularly until the fat fully melts into the meat and they are browned and juicy. If flames flare up, move the skewers to the cooler side of the grill to avoid burning while ensuring they cook through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Food in Northern Cyprus

Is there a similar dish in Southern Cyprus?

Yes, this is an island-wide dish with slight variations in presentation. It is also popular in the Republic of Cyprus, where it is known as sheftalia.

What other authentic dishes are there in Northern Cyprus?

First and foremost is halloumi – the most popular cheese in Northern Cyprus and a true national pride. Here's how it's prepared and enjoyed. You can also read about Turkish pastries popular on the island, such as lahmacun and gözleme.

Where can I find the best Sheftali Kebab in Northern Cyprus?

You can rely on Google Maps reviews by searching for "Şeftali Kebab." Additionally, check out the best-rated eateries in the main tourist cities of Northern Cyprus, according to Cyprus-FAQ readers.

• Best Restaurants in Famagusta
• Best Restaurants in Kyrenia

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