Air-Fryer Halloumi: Quick, Crispy, Golden Perfection

Halloumi is a popular cheese to cook with due to its distinctive salty taste and its ability to retain its shape when grilled or fried. It is also a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to fries. Cooking halloumi in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare the cheese, resulting in a crispy, golden finish. The process is simple: slice the halloumi, dry it with a kitchen towel, and then place it in the air fryer for around 8-10 minutes, depending on how crispy you like it. You can also experiment with different flavours by adding spices or a chilli glaze.

Air fryer temperature and time

Air frying is a hands-off and convenient way of cooking halloumi. It is also a healthier option as it requires less oil. The ideal temperature and time for cooking halloumi in an air fryer depend on the desired texture and browning.

For a soft centre and a golden, crispy exterior, air fry the halloumi at 380°F for 8 to 10 minutes. If the temperature is too low, the halloumi won't crisp up, and if it is too high, it may burn.

For best results, preheat the air fryer to 180°C/360°F. Slice the halloumi into six equal-sized slices and brush all sides with olive oil. Once the air fryer is preheated, brush the basket with olive oil and place the halloumi slices on top, ensuring they don't touch. Cook for 7 to 9 minutes for larger slices or 7 to 8 minutes for smaller cubes. The halloumi is ready when it is golden brown.

It is important to note that cooking time may vary depending on the brand and size of the air fryer, and some models may cook faster than others. Therefore, it is recommended to keep a close eye on the halloumi during the first attempt to avoid overcooking or burning.

Halloumi fries

To make halloumi fries in an air fryer, start by slicing the halloumi into sticks or fries. You can either cut the halloumi into slices and then cut them into fries once cooked, or cut them into fries and then cook them. Before cooking, use a clean tea towel or kitchen roll to dab the halloumi dry. This is an important step, as halloumi has a high moisture content and can leak water into your air fryer.

Next, preheat your air fryer to between 180°C and 200°C. Spray the air fryer basket with oil or brush the halloumi with oil on all sides. If desired, you can add seasonings such as thyme, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne pepper.

Place the halloumi fries into the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don't touch. Depending on the size of your basket, you may need to cook the fries in multiple batches. Cook for 7 to 10 minutes, turning the fries over halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcook the halloumi, as it can become rubbery.

Serve your halloumi fries immediately with your favourite dipping sauce. Some popular options include sweet chilli jam, sriracha aioli, marinara sauce, or honey and chilli flakes. Enjoy!

Halloumi slices

Air-fried halloumi slices are a quick, easy, and tasty treat. They can be served as a snack, appetiser, or side dish, and are perfect for vegetarians. The slices can be served plain, or with dips and salads.

Preparation

Start by slicing the halloumi into slabs or thin fries. Thinner slices will turn out crispier, while thicker ones will have a crispy exterior and a softer centre. You can also cut the halloumi into cubes for skewers or salads. After cutting, pat the halloumi dry with a kitchen towel to absorb excess moisture.

Cooking

Preheat your air fryer to 180-200°C for 2 minutes. You can lightly brush the halloumi with olive oil, and for extra flavour, add a pinch of smoked paprika, thyme, or Cajun or Peri Peri seasoning. Arrange the slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap to allow for even cooking.

Cooking time will depend on how crispy you like your halloumi, and the specific model of your air fryer. As a guide, cook the slices for 4 minutes, turn them over, and then cook for another 4 minutes or until golden and crispy. Alternatively, you can cook the halloumi for 10 minutes, turning them over halfway through.

Serving

Air-fried halloumi slices are delicious served with a dip such as sweet chilli jam, sweet chilli mayo, sour cream and chives, or Greek yoghurt with pomegranate molasses. They also go well with salads, and can be skewered with cherry tomatoes, red onion wedges, and basil leaves for a vibrant summer dish.

Dips and sauces

Halloumi fries go well with zesty and bold sauces. Some options include:

• Sweet chilli jam
• Honey and chilli flakes
• Balsamic glaze
• Cayenne pepper
• Lemon wedges

You can also try dipping your halloumi fries in sauces such as ranch, blue cheese, or a spicy ketchup. If you're feeling creative, experiment with different flavours and seasonings like Cajun, Peri Peri, or smoked paprika to give your halloumi an extra kick.

Reheating halloumi

Halloumi is a salty, squeaky cheese that does not melt once cooked. It is a popular ingredient in dishes such as salads, wraps, stir-fries, and curries. It can be grilled, fried, or baked, and is also commonly cooked in an air fryer.

Reheating leftover halloumi:

Leftover cooked halloumi can be reheated in the microwave or in an air fryer. To reheat in an air fryer, brush the halloumi lightly with olive oil and place it in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes at 390°F (200°C). It is important not to reheat for too long, as the halloumi will become too crispy to eat.

Cooking halloumi in an air fryer:

Cooking halloumi in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare the cheese, and it results in a crispy and golden exterior with a soft and delicious interior. The first step is to slice the halloumi into 8 pieces. It is important to ensure that the halloumi is dry before cooking, so use a clean tea towel, cloth, or kitchen roll to dab the halloumi dry. If your air fryer requires preheating, heat it to 200°C. Place the halloumi slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving enough space for the air to circulate. Brush the halloumi with a little oil on each side and sprinkle with seasonings of your choice, such as thyme, paprika, or mixed herbs. Cook the halloumi for 8-10 minutes, carefully flipping halfway through. Use tongs to remove the halloumi from the basket.

Tips for cooking halloumi in an air fryer:

• If your air fryer has a crisper tray, use it to help with air circulation.
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Check the halloumi frequently, especially if your air fryer is warm, as food may cook faster.
• Experiment with different flavours and seasonings to find your preferred taste.

Frequently asked questions