Kolokas

Kolokas Traditional Vegetable Dish of Cyprus

What is Kolokas?

Kolokas dish, Cyprus kolokas

**Kolokas** is the name of a vegetable commonly used in Cypriot cuisine and known as the taro plant. This dish, which is especially made in Cyprus during the winter months, offers a delicious and satisfying recipe with its root vegetable. Kolokas has a potato-like texture with a slightly sweetish flavor and is usually cooked with lamb or chicken meat.

This vegetable is one of the traditional flavors of Cypriot cuisine, a food culture that has been passed down through generations. Both nutritious and delicious, kolokas is one of the indispensables of the Cypriot table.

How to Make Kolokas?

Kolokas making, Cyprus kolokas recipe

Kolokas is an extremely tasty and nutritious dish when cooked correctly. Here is a step-by-step recipe for kolokas:

- **Materials:**
- 1 kg kolocas (taro root)
- 300 grams of lamb (optional)
- 2 onions
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 3 cups of water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper

- **Construction:**
1. Peel the colocasia roots and cut them into large pieces.
2. Put the lamb in a pot and lightly fry it in olive oil. Add finely chopped onions and continue to fry until they turn pink.
3. Add the tomato paste and fry for a few more minutes. Then add the water and bring the mixture to the boil.
4. When the meat starts to soften, add the colocaccia pieces. Season with salt, pepper and lemon juice and simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes.
5. When the colocasses are soft, the dish is ready to serve.

History and Origin of Kolokas

History of kolokas, Cyprus kolokas dish

Kolokas is one of the long-established and traditional dishes of Cypriot cuisine. This vegetable, which has been cooked on the island for centuries, is especially popular in rural areas of Cyprus. Kolokas is a product that reflects the agricultural richness of the island and is a recipe passed down from generation to generation.

Apart from Cyprus, kolokas is also used in Middle Eastern, African and Asian cuisines. However, the colocasia dish cooked in Cyprus is distinguished by its aroma, especially when combined with lamb.

Benefits of Kolokas

Colocasia benefits, health benefits of colocasia plant

Kolokas is a vegetable with high nutritional value and offers many health benefits. Here are some of the benefits of colocasia:

- Fiber Source:** Colocas helps regulate the digestive system with its high fiber content and keeps you full for a long time.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals:** Kolokas are rich in important vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A and C, potassium and iron.
- Antioxidant Properties:** Kolokas is rich in antioxidants and helps to regenerate cells and strengthen the immune system.
- Heart Health:** The potassium contained in colocasia supports heart health and helps regulate blood pressure.

Where is Kolokas Consumed?

Kolokas food Cyprus, where to eat kolokas

Kolokas is a popular dish, especially in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. This dish, which is frequently made in local restaurants and at home tables, is consumed more during the winter months. Kolokas dish is usually served with rice or bulgur.

While vacationing in Cyprus, you can definitely try kolokas in a local restaurant. This traditional flavor is the perfect choice for those who want to discover the culinary richness of Cyprus.

Kolokas is one of the traditional and delicious dishes of Cypriot cuisine. This dish, which is both healthy and filling, reflects the deep-rooted culinary culture of Cyprus. Kolokas, cooked with lamb meat, is a flavor that delights the tables especially in winter. Be sure to try this Cyprus-specific dish!