Karpouzopita (Watermelon Pie) from Milos
A traditional summer dessert from Milos made with juicy watermelon, cinnamon and sesame, with no added sugar — all the sweetness comes from the fruit. Episode 4 of exploring Greece through its regional recipes.
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- 1
Preheat the oven to 175°C fan.
- 2
Cut the watermelon into small pieces and place them in a large bowl. Crush well with your hands until very juicy, leaving a few tiny pieces for texture.
- 3
Stir the cinnamon into the watermelon, then add the flour and mix until combined. If your watermelon isn't very sweet, add a little honey or sugar now.
- 4
Fold in the walnuts, if using.
- 5
Line a 22 × 34 cm tray with baking paper, then add 3 tbsp of the olive oil and a layer of sesame seeds.
- 6
Pour in the mixture and spread it evenly, about 1.5–2 cm thick, so the centre bakes evenly.
- 7
Drizzle over the remaining olive oil and sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and a little extra cinnamon.
- 8
Bake for 45–50 minutes at 175°C fan, until golden around the edges and set in the centre.
- 9
Let it cool before slicing. Enjoy at room temperature or chilled — it keeps well in the fridge and is even more refreshing the next day.