Şamali (shah-mah-lee) is a Cypriot syrup-soaked, semolina-based cake. It is similar to other semolina-based desserts that are popular in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, such as Revani which usually contains flour, and Basbousa which often contains desiccated coconut. The cake has a delicate grainy and crumbly texture created by the semolina which soaks up the syrup like a sponge. The natural yoghurt in the cake provides a gentle creamy undertone that complements t

Köy keki (kuh-y keh-kee) means 'village cake' in Turkish. It is fluffy and delicately sweet, with chopped almonds and walnuts adding a delightful texture and nutty depth of flavour. The generous addition of orange and lemon zest brings a refreshing citrusy brightness to the cake , making each bite feel light to eat. Using a Bundt tin helps bake the cake evenly and is recommended for this recipe. Traditionally, köy keki was baked in large round pans in a wood-fired adobe oven