Halloumi cheese has become a beloved ingredient for many food lovers around the world. Known for its unique texture that doesn’t melt when heated, halloumi offers a deliciously crispy outside and a soft, squeaky inside. If you’re wondering how to cook halloumi cheese to get that perfect golden crust and tender center, you’re in the right place! Let’s dive into easy and tasty ways to cook halloumi that will make your meals shine.
What Is Halloumi Cheese?
Halloumi is a traditional cheese from Cyprus, famous for its firm texture and salty flavor. Unlike most cheeses, it can be grilled, fried, or baked without melting, making it a versatile choice for vegetarian dishes, salads, sandwiches, and more. Its high melting point is due to the way it’s made-pressed and brined, which helps it hold its shape during cooking.
Preparing Halloumi for Cooking
Before cooking, pat your halloumi dry with kitchen paper to remove excess moisture. Then slice it into pieces about 1 cm (or roughly half an inch) thick. This thickness helps the cheese cook evenly and develop a nice crust without becoming rubbery.
How to Cook Halloumi Cheese
1. Frying Halloumi
Frying is one of the easiest and most popular ways to cook halloumi.
– Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat.
– Add a drizzle of olive oil or use a dry pan (halloumi has enough fat to cook without oil if you prefer).
– Place the halloumi slices in the pan without overcrowding.
– Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until the cheese turns golden brown and crispy.
– Avoid flipping too soon; wait until the cheese releases its liquid and the underside is nicely browned.
– Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
2. Grilling Halloumi
Grilling adds a smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks.
– Slice halloumi into 1/2-inch thick planks.
– Lightly brush both sides with olive oil.
– Preheat your grill or grill pan until hot.
– Grill the slices for 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks appear and the cheese is golden.
– Serve warm as a snack, in salads, or as a meat substitute in sandwiches.
3. Baking Halloumi
Baking halloumi is a hands-off method that lets the cheese soak up extra flavors.
– Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan 180°C/gas mark 6).
– Place halloumi slices in an ovenproof dish.
– Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle your favorite herbs or spices.
– Bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and slightly softened.
– This method works great for adding halloumi to vegetable bakes or grain bowls.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Halloumi
– Use a non-stick pan if possible to prevent sticking and burning.
– If using a stainless steel pan, cook on lower heat and add a little oil to avoid sticking.
– Don’t overcook halloumi; it should be golden and crispy outside but still soft and slightly springy inside.
– Serve halloumi immediately after cooking because it can become rubbery as it cools.
Flavor Pairings and Serving Ideas
Halloumi’s salty, squeaky texture pairs wonderfully with fresh, vibrant ingredients:
– Drizzle with lemon juice or honey for a sweet and tangy contrast.
– Add to salads with tomatoes, cucumbers, and fresh herbs.
– Serve alongside grilled vegetables or use as a filling in wraps and sandwiches.
– Top with warm spices like thyme or za’atar for a Mediterranean twist.
Why Halloumi Is a Kitchen Favorite
Halloumi is not just tasty but also incredibly versatile. It’s a fantastic vegetarian protein option that holds up well to various cooking methods. Whether you want a quick snack or a flavorful addition to your meal, halloumi delivers a satisfying texture and rich taste every time.
Enjoy experimenting with frying, grilling, or baking halloumi to find your favorite way to cook this delicious cheese!
Halloumi cheese is best enjoyed hot and fresh, with a golden crust and soft center that makes every bite a delight.