Shamishi
Shamishi is a traditional Cypriot delicacy which is served usually during name days.
Etymology
The name shamishi means "work of Damascus."
Origin
Shamishi dates back to Ottoman Cyprus. It is thought to have been influenced by Middle Eastern cuisine, or specficially, Levantine cuisine.
Information
Shamishi are semolina fried pies that have been produced in Cyprus since at least the 19th century and they are considered a traditional delicacy of the cuisine of Cyprus. Shamishi are known as a dessert that is served hot in special occasions such as weddings and local religious feasts usually along with loukoumades and water and it is a variety of fried pastry filled with halva and semolina. In addition to halva and semolina, shamishi includes ingredients like flour, water, sugar, mastic, oil, salt, among others. The filling is typically semolina pudding.
Tamriyeh
Similar desserts like can be found in the Levant region, tamriyeh is a dessert made enveloping thin dough around a semolina pudding filling and then frying it, typically topped with powdered sugar. It is made by Christians on holidays and by Muslims during Ramadan.