Description
Halloumi with Chili Oil Honey Glaze
A culinary gem with roots in Mediterranean tradition, halloumi is a cheese that grills without melting, making it perfect for this sweet, spicy, and savory dish. This recipe combines crispy golden halloumi with a glossy glaze of chili-infused honey, delivering a harmonious blend of flavors. A Cypriot classic with a modern twist, it’s sure to impress as an appetizer or main course.
1 block halloumi, sliced (1/4-inch thick)
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup honey
2 tbsp chili oil
1 tsp red chili flakes
Fresh parsley, chopped
1 green chili, sliced (optional)
Salt to taste
Directions:
1. Pat halloumi dry, season lightly.
2. Heat oil in a pan, fry halloumi until golden on both sides.
3. Mix honey and chili oil, adding chili flakes.
4. Drizzle glaze over halloumi, garnish with parsley and chili.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 25 mins
Kcal: ~150 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Halloumi: Remove the halloumi from its brine and pat it completely dry with paper towels. Slice it into 1/4-inch thick pieces. This ensures a good sear.
2. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the honey, chili oil, and red chili flakes. Whisk until fully blended. Set aside.
3. Cook the Cheese: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the halloumi slices in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a deep golden-brown crust forms. Avoid moving them too soon.
4. Glaze and Garnish: Reduce the heat to low. Pour the prepared glaze over the fried halloumi. Gently tilt the pan to coat each piece evenly for about 30 seconds. Transfer to a serving plate and immediately garnish with chopped fresh parsley and optional sliced green chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm for the best texture. As an appetizer, arrange slices on a platter with toothpicks. For a main course, pair it with:
- A fresh salad of watermelon, mint, and arugula.
- Grilled flatbread or pita for scooping.
- A side of lemon-herb couscous or quinoa.
- Chilled, crisp white wine or a citrusy pale ale to balance the richness.
How-to Summary
Dry and slice halloumi. Whisk honey, chili oil, and flakes for the glaze. Pan-fry cheese until golden brown on both sides. Drizzle glaze over the hot cheese, coating well. Garnish with parsley and optional fresh chili. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake or grill the halloumi instead? Yes. For grilling, brush slices with oil and grill for 2-3 minutes per side. For baking, place on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
How do I prevent the halloumi from sticking? Ensure your pan is properly preheated with oil before adding the cheese. Using a good non-stick pan is also highly recommended.
What can I use as a chili oil substitute? Mix 2 tbsp of a neutral oil (like avocado) with 1/2 tsp of chili powder or paste. Alternatively, use a hot sauce like sriracha, but reduce the honey slightly to balance acidity.
Is halloumi vegetarian? Traditional halloumi is made with animal rennet, but many brands now produce vegetarian halloumi using microbial rennet. Always check the label.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time? Absolutely. The glaze can be made and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Gently warm it before using to make it pourable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Drying the Cheese: Excess moisture will steam the halloumi instead of creating a crisp sear.
- Overcrowding the Pan: This lowers the pan’s temperature, leading to soggy, rubbery cheese. Cook in batches if needed.
- Using High-Heat Honey: Adding the honey glaze to a very hot, empty pan can cause it to burn. Always add it to the cooked cheese off direct high heat.
- Overseasoning: Halloumi is already quite salty. Season very lightly, if at all, before cooking.
Conclusion
This Halloumi with Chili Oil Honey Glaze is a stunning example of how a few quality ingredients can create an extraordinary dish. The contrast of salty, crispy cheese with the sweet, spicy, and glossy glaze is irresistibly delicious. Whether served as a quick gourmet appetizer or a featured main, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings modern flair to a timeless cheese. Master the simple techniques, avoid the common pitfalls, and enjoy this perfect bite of sweet, salty, and spicy harmony.