Description
Halloumi Fries
Crispy, golden, and utterly addictive! Halloumi fries are the ultimate vegetarian party snack that will have everyone coming back for more. Halloumi is a versatile Cypriot cheese that holds its shape when fried, making it perfect for fries or adding to salads and burgers. Whether you fry, bake, or air fry these cheesy delights, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Serve them warm with a sweet chili mayo dipping sauce for an unforgettable appetizer. Trust us, once you try halloumi fries, you’ll be hooked!
450g Halloumi cheese
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 tbsp paprika
½ tbsp oregano
½ tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Vegetable oil for frying
Sweet chili mayo dip:
⅓ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sweet chili sauce
1 tbsp sour cream
Directions:
1. Combine flour, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, and cayenne in a bowl.
2. Slice halloumi, coat in flour, and fry until golden.
3. Serve warm with dip.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 266
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Halloumi: Remove the halloumi from its brine and pat it completely dry with paper towels. Slice the block into thick fries, roughly 1/2 inch wide and 3 inches long.
2. Create the Seasoned Coating: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until fully combined.
3. Coat the Cheese: Toss the halloumi fries in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly and thoroughly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
4. Fry to Perfection: In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, carefully add the coated fries. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are uniformly golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain and Serve: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried halloumi to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
6. Make the Dip: While the fries are frying, quickly mix the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sour cream in a small bowl until smooth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these fries hot as a standout appetizer with the sweet chili mayo dip. For a fuller meal, pile them onto a fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette, or tuck them into a warm pita with chopped tomatoes, cucumber, and a drizzle of tzatziki. They also make an incredible vegetarian burger topping.
How-to Summary
Slice halloumi into fries, coat in a spiced flour mixture, and deep-fry in hot oil until golden. Serve immediately with a simple, creamy sweet chili dipping sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake or air fry halloumi fries? Yes. For baking, place coated fries on a parchment-lined sheet at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 mins, flipping halfway. For air frying, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 mins, shaking the basket once.
Why is my halloumi leaking or becoming rubbery? This often happens if the oil isn’t hot enough. Ensure the oil reaches 350°F before frying to quickly sear the exterior and prevent melting.
Can I make the dip ahead of time? Absolutely. The sweet chili mayo dip can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
What can I use instead of all-purpose flour? For a gluten-free version, cornstarch or a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well to create a crispy coating.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? While best fresh, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven to restore crispiness; microwaving will make them soft.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not patting the halloumi dry, which leads to splattering oil and prevents a crisp coating.
- Using oil that is not hot enough, causing the fries to absorb oil and become greasy or melt.
- Overcrowding the pan during frying, which lowers the oil temperature and steams the fries.
- Skipping the seasoning in the flour, as the flour alone provides little flavor.
Conclusion
Halloumi fries are a simple yet spectacular snack that combines a crispy, seasoned exterior with a deliciously salty, squeaky interior. Perfect for parties or a indulgent treat, this recipe is forgiving and adaptable to various cooking methods. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve perfect results every time. Serve them hot with the tangy dip for a truly crowd-pleasing dish.