Introduction

Halloumi fries are a delicious, easy-to-make snack or appetiser that combines the unique texture and flavour of halloumi cheese with a crispy, golden exterior. These fries are a great alternative to traditional potato fries, offering a salty, slightly tangy flavour that pairs well with a variety of dips and sauces. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a quick treat, halloumi fries are sure to be a hit with cheese lovers.

Ingredients

• Halloumi Cheese: 250 grams (1 block)
• All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup
• Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon (optional, for extra flavour)
• Ground Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Vegetable Oil: For frying (enough to fill your pan about 1 inch deep)
• Fresh Lemon Wedges: For serving
• Fresh Herbs: Such as parsley or mint, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• • Cutting Board
  • Sharp Knife
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Large Skillet or Deep Frying Pan
  • Tongs or Slotted Spoon
  • Paper Towels
  • Serving Plate

Instructions

1. Prepare the Halloumi:

• • Remove the halloumi from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.
  • Cut the halloumi block into even-sized fries, approximately 1/2 inch thick.

2. Coat the Halloumi:

• • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika (if using), and black pepper.
  • Toss the halloumi fries in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.

3. Heat the Oil:

• • Pour enough vegetable oil into a large skillet or deep frying pan to fill it about 1 inch deep.
  • Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 180°C (350°F), or until a small piece of bread sizzles and turns golden within a few seconds when dropped in the oil.

4. Fry the Halloumi:

• • Carefully place the coated halloumi fries into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
  • Fry the halloumi in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
  • Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove the fries from the oil, and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

5. Serve:

• • Arrange the halloumi fries on a serving plate.
  • Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fries and garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
  • Serve immediately with your favourite dipping sauce.

Tips

• Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure a crispy exterior. If the oil is too cool, the fries will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
• Flour Mixture: You can experiment with different seasonings in the flour mixture, such as garlic powder, cumin, or chilli flakes, to add more flavour to the fries.
• Dips: Halloumi fries pair well with a variety of dips, such as tzatziki, aioli, or a spicy harissa yoghurt dip.
• Serving: These fries are best served hot and fresh, as they may lose their crispiness if left to sit for too long.