RECIPE: HOW TO MAKE KOLOKOTES FROM CYPRUS

Cyprus Kolokotes are a delicious traditional recipe that combines pumpkin, rice and a mixture of spices. These filled pies are perfect to enjoy on a fall afternoon or as part of a special celebration. Learn how to prepare them with this recipe step by step.

Kolokotes Ingredients

1 medium-sized pumpkin, peeled and cut into small pieces

1 cup short grain rice

1 large onion, chopped

1/2 cup raisins

1/4 cup pine nuts

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Salt and pepper to taste

Olive oil

Phyllo dough (thin sheets of phyllo dough)

Preparation of Kolokotes step by step

In a large frying pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion until translucent.

Add the squash and cook until tender. Remove from the fire and let cool.

Cook the rice in boiling water with a little salt until half cooked. Drain and reserve.

In a large bowl, combine the cooked squash, rice, raisins, pine nuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt and pepper. Mix all ingredients well.

Prepare the filo dough sheets by spreading them out on a flat surface and covering them with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.

Cut the sheets of filo dough into squares of approximately 15x15 cm.

Place a portion of the pumpkin mixture in the center of each phyllo dough square and fold them so they are sealed like a package.

Place the Kolokotes on a greased baking tray and bake at 180°C for approximately 30-40 minutes or until the dough is golden and crispy.

Serve the Kolokotes hot and enjoy this delicious traditional Cypriot snack.