Sfakianopita

01 / ABOUT THE DISH

About the dish

Sfakianopita is a traditional Cretan treat that couples layers of thin, unleavened dough and soft white whey cheese. The pie is typically made with flour, olive oil, water, salt, and a shot of raki (Cretan tsikoudia ), and rather than being filled with local myzithra cheese, the dough is kneaded with the cheese. The whole combination is then flattened out into a thin, almost crepe-like or pancake-like circle and fried until golden, spotted, and crispy. Also known as sfakiani pita or mizithropita, this specialty is believed to have been created by Cretan shepherds from Sfakia, hence the name sfakianopita. The pie is usually enjoyed warm as a sweet breakfast and is traditionally served drizzled with thyme honey, creating a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. Other typical toppings used for flavoring the pie include sesame seeds, cinnamon, and almond slivers. It can also be transformed into a savory pie, depending on personal preferences. Sfakianopita can be found in almost any traditional tavern, and it is usually accompanied by cold tsikoudia on the side.