Air-Fried Halloumi: A Quick, Crispy Treat

Halloumi is a semi-hard, unripened, brined cheese made from a mixture of goat's and sheep's milk from Cyprus. It is known for its high melting point, allowing it to hold its shape and get crispy on the outside when heated. Air frying is a convenient and hands-off method to achieve this crispy texture without using excessive oil. This article will explore the process of making halloumi in an air fryer, including preparation, cooking, and serving suggestions.

How to prepare halloumi for the air fryer

Ingredients

You will need halloumi cheese, olive oil, and salt and pepper or other seasonings of your choice.

Method

• Start by patting the halloumi dry with kitchen paper or a clean cloth.
• Cut the halloumi into your desired shape and size. You can cut it into slices, cubes, strips, or wedges.
• Brush both sides of the halloumi lightly with olive oil.
• If desired, season the halloumi with salt and pepper or other seasonings such as dried herbs, spices, or smoked paprika.
• Preheat your air fryer to between 180°C and 200°C (some sources recommend 390°F or 400°F).
• Place the halloumi in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring the pieces are not overlapping.
• Cook for 7-10 minutes, turning the halloumi halfway through.
• The halloumi is ready when it is golden and crispy.

Tips

• If your air fryer tends to stick, spray the basket with a layer of non-stick baking spray before adding the halloumi.
• Halloumi is quite salty, so be cautious about adding extra seasoning.
• If you are making a smaller shape, such as halloumi fries or cubes, check on the halloumi after 7-8 minutes to ensure it doesn't overcook.
• For extra flavour, serve with a dressing, sauce, or dip.

Air fryer temperature and cooking time

The cooking time and temperature for air-fried halloumi vary depending on the brand and size of your air fryer, the thickness of the halloumi slices, and how golden you want the cheese to be.

Most recipes recommend preheating your air fryer to between 360°F (180°C) and cooking the halloumi for 7 to 10 minutes, flipping it halfway through. However, some recipes suggest cooking at a higher temperature of 380°F, and one recipe recommends a lower temperature of 200°C for 2 minutes.

For thinner slices of halloumi, check on the cheese around the 7-minute mark to ensure it doesn't burn. If you prefer your halloumi extra crispy, you can add 1 to 2 minutes to the cooking time.

It's important to note that halloumi should not be overlapped or stacked in the air fryer as this will prevent it from crisping up properly.

How to serve air-fried halloumi

Air-fried halloumi is a great, healthier alternative to pan-fried halloumi, as it is less oily and has a lower fat content. However, it can be a little drier, so it is best served with something moist like a sauce, dressing, or juicy tomatoes.

• Salad topping– Mix with herbs and cherry tomatoes for a simple salad, or try it with Erin's Halloumi Lentil Salad or the Halloumi & Black Bean Salad.
• Sandwich or wrap filling– Add lots of avocado and tomato, or try it with scrambled eggs on toast and fresh salsa.
• With pasta– Try it with Cherry Tomato & Halloumi Pasta, or swap the burrata for halloumi in a juicy Bruschetta Pasta.
• With curry– It would be delicious in a Butter Halloumi Curry, or you could swap it in for the paneer in a Kale Paneer Curry or Spinach Paneer Curry.
• Halloumi fries– Cut the halloumi into fry shapes and cook for a shorter time. Serve with your favourite dips.
• Topping for avocado toast– This is a tasty and simple option.
• Mezze– Air-fried halloumi is great as part of a mezze selection, especially with a subtly spiced honey for a sweet-meets-salty flavour.

You could also try serving it with a romesco or bravas sauce for a tapas-style treat, or with sliced cherry tomatoes and freshly chopped herbs for a fresh appetizer.

The benefits of cooking halloumi in an air fryer

Air fryers are a convenient and healthy way to cook halloumi cheese. Here are some advantages of using an air fryer over a grill or frying pan:

Health Benefits

Halloumi is a semi-hard, brined cheese with a high melting point, which gives it a salty taste and a "squeaky" texture. It is made from a mixture of goat's and sheep's milk, and because of its high melting point, it keeps its shape when fried. However, frying halloumi in oil can increase its fat and calorie content. Air fryers provide a lighter way to cook halloumi, reducing the fat and calories without compromising on taste and texture.

Ease of Use

Air fryers offer a hands-off and convenient approach to cooking halloumi. Unlike pan frying, which requires constant attention and flipping, air frying requires minimal preparation and less multitasking. You can simply brush the halloumi with oil, season it, and place it in the air fryer without worrying about it burning. This makes it especially useful when you have multiple dishes cooking at the same time.

Versatility

Air-fried halloumi can be served in a variety of ways. It can be enjoyed as a snack on its own, or added to appetizers, lunches, or dinners. You can include it in sandwiches, wraps, salads, grain bowls, or even on top of scrambled eggs. Its versatility makes it a great addition to any meal.

Speed and Efficiency

Air fryers can cook halloumi in a short amount of time, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. This quick cooking time makes it a convenient option for those looking for a speedy and efficient cooking method.

Customization

When cooking halloumi in an air fryer, you have the option to customize the seasoning to your taste. You can brush the halloumi with olive oil and add seasonings like salt and pepper, dried thyme, smoked paprika, or mixed herbs. This allows you to control the flavor profile and create a dish that suits your preferences.

Where to buy halloumi

Halloumi is a semi-hard, unripened, brined cheese made from a mixture of cow, sheep, and goat's milk. It has a high melting point, a strong, salty flavour, and a creamy texture. It is a popular cheese that can be easily fried or grilled.

You can buy halloumi from a variety of places, both in-store and online. Here are some options for where to buy halloumi:

In-store

• Specialist cheese shops or delicatessens: These stores often stock a variety of cheeses, including halloumi.
• Local grocery stores: Some larger supermarkets may carry halloumi, particularly those with a well-stocked cheese section or international food aisle.
• International food markets: Halloumi is commonly found in markets that specialise in foods from the Middle East, the Mediterranean, or Cyprus, where the cheese originates.

Online

• Amazon: Various sellers on Amazon offer halloumi, such as the Wisconsin Cheese Mart. You can find different pack sizes and prices to suit your needs.
• Whole Foods Market: This online grocery store offers an 8 oz package of halloumi, which can be conveniently delivered to your home.
• Wisconsin Cheese Mart: This online store specialises in cheese and offers halloumi for sale. They provide detailed descriptions of their products, including flavour profiles and ingredients.

Frequently asked questions