Cypriot-Style Kitchener Bun

Ingredients

The Cypriot-Style Kitchener Bun differs from the original Canadian version by incorporating Cypriot ingredients and flavors. The filling of the bun includes halloumi cheese, mint, and olives, which are traditional ingredients in Cypriot cuisine. Additionally, the bun is topped with a drizzle of honey, adding a touch of sweetness that is characteristic of Cypriot desserts. We alse have the original recipe for Kitchener Bun, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 egg 1 egg
• 1 cup (150g) halloumi cheese, grated 1 cup (150g) halloumi cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup (30g) Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped 1/4 cup (30g) Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
• 2 tablespoons (8g) fresh mint leaves, chopped 2 tablespoons (8g) fresh mint leaves, chopped
• Honey, for drizzling Honey, for drizzling

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 5g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, and egg.
3. 3.
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   Meanwhile, prepare the filling by combining the grated halloumi cheese, chopped olives, and mint leaves in a bowl.
7. 7.
   Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal portions.
8. 8.
   Flatten each portion of dough and place a spoonful of the filling in the center.
9. 9.
   Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch to seal, forming a bun shape.
10. 10.
    Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
11. 11.
    Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
12. 12.
    Bake the buns for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
13. 13.
    Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool slightly.
14. 14.
    Drizzle the buns with honey before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Halloumi cheese — Make sure to grate the halloumi cheese before using it in the filling. This will ensure that it distributes evenly throughout the bun and melts properly during baking.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can add a tablespoon of honey to the halloumi cheese mixture.
• For a more pronounced mint flavor, you can increase the amount of fresh mint leaves in the filling.
• Serve the Cypriot-Style Kitchener Buns warm for the best taste and texture.
• If you don't have Kalamata olives, you can substitute them with black olives.
• These buns are best enjoyed on the day they are made, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Cypriot-Style Kitchener Buns as a delightful breakfast or snack. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a cup of Cypriot coffee or tea.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Cypriot-Style Kitchener Buns on a serving platter and drizzle them with an additional touch of honey for an enticing presentation. Sprinkle some fresh mint leaves on top for a pop of color.