Halloumi Fries: the crispy, tasty appetizer recipe

Halloumi fries is a very easy, flavorful recipe you can serve as appetizer, the Middle Eastern version of classic mozzarella sticks. Halloumi is the perfect cheese to fry or grill as it holds its shape perfectly yet cooks to be stretchy and deliciously cheesy.

Crisp on the outside and soft, salty on the inside, this is the perfect vegetarian party food to serve guests. This is a very simple recipe which highlights the flavor of the halloumi and is not complicated at all.

While this recipe calls for paprika, you can also try za'atar seasoning or have no seasoning at all in the flour mix – it's up to you! Serve these halloumi fries alone or pair them with a Greek yogurt dipping sauce or a spicy dipping sauce seasoned with a sweet chili sauce will add a great kick to this recipe.

What is Halloumi?

Halloumi (or haloumi) is a white, semi-hard Cypriot cheese that is distinguished by its salty flavor since it is made from a bled of goats' or sheep's milk – sometimes even cow's milk.

Once cooked, it becomes less savory and takes on a squeaky texture, while retaining its shape. As it has a high melting point, halloumi is an excellent cheese to grill or bake as it does not melt.

You can find halloumi cheese in supermarkets, grocery stores or Mediterranean deli.

How to make Halloumi Fries

Making halloumi fries is easier than you may think. Cut halloumi into long, rectangular shapes, then roll each one first in the flour.

Fry for a few minutes until crispy, golden brown. Serve halloumi fries with your favorite dipping sauce.

What to serve with Halloumi Fries

You can serve halloumi fries with a flavorful marinara, garlic or Greek yogurt dipping sauces.

Sour cream mixed with a sweet chili sauce will also make a great dip.

Tips for the Best Halloumi Fries

For a lighter recipe, you can bake halloumi fries in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes.

You can make halloumi fries in the air fryer. Place halloumi on a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook to 355°F for about 10 minutes.

You can enjoy halloumi fries cold if chopped and added to a salad.

For extra crispness, dip floured halloumi into the egg wash and breadcrumbs.

For an extra flavor addition, squeeze fresh lemon juice on top of these fries before serving.

They also taste very refreshing when garnished with freshly diced mint leaves.

How to store Halloumi Fries

Halloumi fries are best served right away. You can also store them in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, closed in an airtight container.

Can you freeze Halloumi Fries?

Yes! After frying and cooling, wrap halloumi fries tightly and freeze for up to one month. Before serving, let them thaw and reheat in a microwave or oven.

Instructions

Cut the halloumi block into strips. This will be the size of the fries so make them a little thicker or thinner depending on your preference.

In a small, shallow bowl, mix the flour and paprika.

Roll the Halloumi in the flour, coating them completely. and setting them aside on a clean plate while you work. Heat the oil to about 350 ̊F in a medium sized skillet. Working in batches so as not to overcrowd the pan, fry the halloumi for about 2 minutes on each side or until the fries are golden.

Remove from the oil and move to a paper towel to absorb some of the oil. Serve the fries while hot alone or paired with a dipping sauce. Enjoy!