Name - Origin
Μανιτάρι.
Functional and symbolic role
The mushroom as a food is mentioned in a one-word reference by Klearchos Soleas (Clearchus of Soli), a writer of Cypriot origin who lived around the 4th c. BC. No further information on the consumption or cooking methods of the mushroom is given.
Additional information and bibliography
'Μύκης' (míkis) is mentioned by Klearchos Soleas (4th-3rd c. BC) in his work ''Περί γρίφων'' among other foods. The passage is quoted by Athenaeus (2nd-3rd c. AD) in his work 'Dipnosophistae'.
Athenaeus, Dipnosophistae 14.648f-649a in: Gulick, C.B. translation (1969) Athenaeus-The Deipnosophists, Loeb Classical Library vol.1. Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 504.
Natassa Charalambous
Traditional Recipes
Afelia with mushrooms and pourkouri
In this recipe the tasty red mushrooms that grow in Melini, in the mountainous province of Larnaca are added to the afelia and cooked in wine.
Traditional Recipes
Mezedes - Doriforos tavern
These meze dishes were served in"Doriforos" tavern, which operated in Aglantzia from 1959 to 1974. Three kinds of meze were served on one plate as a single dish.
Traditional Recipes
Mountain red mushrooms
A recipe with earthy tones, red mushrooms with onion and dry coriander or cinnamon.
Traditional Recipes
Mushrooms in wine
The mushrooms are sautéed and then left to simmer in wine and coriander, absorbing their rich aromas.
Traditional Recipes
Mushrooms Korniotika
Fried mushrooms dipped in batter. A recipe from Kornos village.
Traditional Recipes
Mushrooms with onion
"Heat the olive oil and add the onion. When softened, add the mushrooms and cook until the water evaporates”. (Koulla Karamani, Kornos)
Traditional Recipes
Pickled mushrooms
Mushrooms, like various other greens and vegetables, are preserved in vinegar and served as an appetiser or as an accompaniment to other dishes.
Traditional Recipes
Sweet pourekia with mushrooms
This recipe originates from Lithrodontas village in Nicosia province. A dessert offered to guests during celebrations such as weddings and christenings.