Πιλαβούνα

Πιλαβούνα

Πιλαβούνα (pee-lah-VOO-nah)

Cypriot Cheese Bread

Prep Time 1 hour
📈 Difficulty Medium
👥 Servings
8
🔥 Calories 292 kcal

A soft, pillowy flatbread stuffed with halloumi and mint, baked until golden on the outside while the cheese melts into a savoury, stretchy interior.

Nutrition & Info

290 kcal per serving
Protein 14.0g
Carbs 32.0g
Fat 12.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

vegetarian dairy-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ dairy ⚠ gluten

Equipment Needed

mixing bowl rolling pin baking sheet

Presentation Guide

Vessel: wooden board

Garnishes: dried mint

Accompaniments: tomatoes, olives, tea

Instructions

  1. 1

    Dissolve yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar. Let froth for 10 minutes.

  2. 2

    Mix flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and olive oil. Knead until smooth. Rest 45 minutes until doubled.

  3. 3

    Combine grated halloumi with dried mint for the filling.

  4. 4

    Divide dough into 8 pieces. Roll each into a circle, place filling in the centre, and fold edges to seal.

  5. 5

    Flatten gently with your palm. Place on a greased baking sheet. Brush with beaten egg.

  6. 6

    Bake at 190°C for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

💡

Did You Know?

Pilavuna is sometimes called Cypriot pizza — except the cheese goes inside, not on top.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • mixing bowl
  • rolling pin
  • baking sheet

Garnishing

dried mint

Accompaniments

tomatoes, olives, tea

The Story Behind Πιλαβούνα

Pilavuna reflects the central role of halloumi in Cypriot cuisine. Village bakers developed these stuffed breads as portable meals for farmers working distant fields. The combination of mint and halloumi inside yeasted bread remains a unique Cypriot creation.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed breakfast, any time snack 📜 Origins: Traditional village baking

Comments (0)

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!