November 15, 2024
Discovering the Culinary Journey of Irene Matys: A Love Letter to Cyprus and Family
Irene Matys is a name that resonates with food lovers who cherish the art of storytelling through cooking. With roots deeply embedded in the flavours and traditions of Cyprus, Irene has spent her career exploring the rich history of Cypriot cuisine while seamlessly blending it with her Canadian upbringing. Through her work as a food stylist, photographer, and cookbook author, Irene invites us to explore not only the food but the stories, memories, and emotions that make every dish so special.
Irene’s culinary journey is shaped by a profound connection to her heritage, a love for fresh, local ingredients, and the joy of sharing meals with loved ones. Growing up in a family where food was central to every gathering, she learned early on how cooking can be both a form of expression and a way to bring people together. This deep appreciation for the cultural and familial role of food is evident in her recipes, which reflect the heart and soul of both her Cypriot and Canadian roots.
Her upcoming cookbook, My Cypriot Table, is a beautiful reflection of this personal journey. Irene has poured her heart into this project, sharing the stories and flavours that have shaped her life, her family, and her culinary philosophy. In each recipe, she bridges the traditions of Cyprus with the influences of her Canadian upbringing, creating a cookbook that is not just a collection of recipes but a celebration of heritage, family, and the art of cooking.
We sat down with Irene to find out more about her inspiration, the culinary traditions she cherishes, and what readers can expect from her upcoming cookbook.
You’re currently working on a cookbook. Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind it and what readers can expect?
My Cypriot Table was inspired by a deep desire to tell my story and to leave a legacy for my three daughters, grandchildren, and future generations. The recipes invite readers into the heart of Cyprus, capturing the island's unique culture, cuisine, and wine. At the same time, the book weaves in my Canadian roots, celebrating the blend of traditions I hold dear. Through thoughtful recipe twists that bring together the flavours of Cyprus and Canada, I share a unique culinary narrative that reflects both my heritage and my life journey, creating a bridge for my family to savour and pass down. It also invites others to discover and cherish the culinary roots and timeless traditions that have shaped my life
Your Cypriot heritage plays a big role in your cooking. How does your background influence the recipes you’re including in your cookbook?
My Cypriot heritage is the heart of my cooking, guiding me and inspiring each dish I create. Growing up with the flavours, aromas, and warmth of Cypriot food, I developed a deep connection to traditional ingredients, from olive oil, lemons, and fresh herbs to veggies, halloumi, and lamb. These elements, combined with a sense of gathering and celebration, influence every recipe in my cookbook. My background infuses the pages with authentic Cypriot techniques, time-honoured family recipes, and a touch of nostalgia, offering readers a true taste of Cyprus with each dish.
What are your must-have pantry staples that you always keep on hand when cooking traditional Cypriot dishes?
When cooking traditional Cypriot dishes, I always keep essential pantry staples on hand that capture the essence of Cypriot flavours. Extra-virgin olive oil is a must for everything from sautéing to finishing dishes with a peppery richness. Dried mint and oregano add earthy depth to salads, meats, and vegetables, while cinnamon and cumin lend warmth to savoury stews and braises. I also keep pulses like lentils and chickpeas for hearty soups and side dishes, as well as bulgur and rice, which are essentials in stuffed vegetables and pilaffs. A jar of capers, along with vinegar and lemons, brings that bright, tangy touch that is so signature to the island’s cuisine. Finally, mastic, mehalapi, carob syrup, rosewater, and orange blossom are perfect for traditional Cypriot aromatic breads and sweets.
Cyprus has such a rich culinary history. Are there any hidden gem ingredients or recipes from Cyprus that you feel deserve more attention?
Cyprus is full of hidden culinary gems, and there are definitely ingredients and recipes that deserve a spotlight. One ingredient that stands out is Kolokasi, a root vegetable similar to taro, often slow-cooked with pork in a tomato-based sauce with celery and finished with lemon for brightness. Its unique, earthy flavor makes it a comforting and satisfying dish. Another lesser-known gem is Louvi—fresh black-eyed beans traditionally prepared with wild greens and often served with canned tuna and tomatoes. This simple yet nutritious dish embodies the island’s reliance on fresh, local produce. Finally, pastellaki, a chewy sesame and carob syrup sesame snap, is an ancient Cypriot sweet that tells the story of our island’s love for carob, which once thrived in Cyprus. These ingredients and recipes carry history, flavour, and the Cypriot spirit, and I’d love to see them embraced more widely.
What is your favourite place in Cyprus, and how has it inspired your cooking and creative process?
This is so difficult just to choose one as the Island of Cyprus has many that inspire me. One of my favourite places is the Troodos Mountains. This region, with its rugged landscapes, rich flora, and quaint villages, is a true inspiration to my cooking and creativity. The abundance of wild herbs like mint, thyme, and oregano growing along the trails influences my use of fresh herbs in dishes. The mountain villages are also home to some of the island’s finest halloumi and other artisanal cheeses, as well as locally harvested nuts, olive oil, and honey. In the fishing village of Zygi, watching the fishermen bring in their daily catch reminds me of the importance of fresh, local ingredients. The seafood from Zygi has inspired some of my favourite recipes, blending the coastal essence of Cyprus with a deep respect for local traditions.
Irene’s upcoming cookbook, My Cypriot Table, promises to be much more than a collection of recipes—it’s a celebration of heritage, family, and the joy of cooking. Through the pages, Irene invites readers to experience the essence of Cyprus in their kitchens, while also sharing her personal journey and the deep connection between food, culture, and family that defines her work. We cant wait to share it with you!
