TIROTRIFTIS

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The triftis (grater) of the Cypriot household was often called tirotriftis (cheese grater), a name that gives away its main use. In its simpler and more usual form, the grater was made of thick tin sheet. It comprised a rectangular, convex surface with many sharp holes, onto which the cheese was grated. This surface was held at a diagonal position by a tin sheet strap, attached to its back.

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The frequent presence of the tirotriftis in the kitchen of the Cypriot household proves that grated cheese was vastly consumed, mainly escorting pasta. Grated cheese was also the main ingredient for flaounes, a traditional type of pastry prepared for Easter.