Air-Fryer Halloumi: Is It Possible?

Yes, you can cook halloumi in an air fryer. It's a hands-off and convenient way of cooking the cheese, and it's also a healthier option than frying as it reduces the fat and calorie content. The result is crispy, golden, and soft halloumi that can be used in a variety of dishes.

How to prepare halloumi for the air fryer

Air frying is a convenient and hands-off way to cook halloumi, and it's perfect if you're looking to reduce the fat and calorie content of your meal. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to prepare halloumi for the air fryer:

Step 1: Cut the Halloumi

Start by cutting the halloumi into your desired shape and size. You can cut it into slices, cubes, strips, or wedges. The size and shape you choose will depend on how you plan to use the halloumi. For example, if you're making halloumi fries, you'll want to cut the halloumi into strips or wedges. If you're adding it to a salad or wrap, slices or cubes might work better.

Step 2: Dry the Halloumi

Before cooking, it's important to pat the halloumi dry using a paper towel or clean cloth. Removing excess moisture will help the halloumi crisp up better in the air fryer.

Step 3: Season the Halloumi (Optional)

At this stage, you can choose to season the halloumi with salt, pepper, or your favourite herbs and spices. You can also brush or rub the halloumi with oil, which will help it crisp up and turn golden. However, this step is optional, as some people prefer to cook halloumi without oil.

Step 4: Place the Halloumi in the Air Fryer

Once your halloumi is prepared, it's time to put it in the air fryer. Place the pieces of halloumi in the air fryer basket, making sure they don't overlap or stack. This will ensure that the halloumi cooks evenly and crisps up properly.

Step 5: Cook the Halloumi

Preheat your air fryer to between 360-400°F (180-200°C). The cooking time will depend on your air fryer and the desired level of doneness, but on average, it should take around 8-10 minutes for the halloumi to turn golden and crispy. Be sure to flip the halloumi halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

Step 6: Serve the Halloumi

Halloumi is best enjoyed straight out of the air fryer while it's still hot and crispy. You can serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or add it to salads, sandwiches, or wraps. It pairs well with fresh herbs, sliced cherry tomatoes, hummus, tzatziki, or a drizzle of honey for a sweet and salty combination.

How long to cook halloumi in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook halloumi in an air fryer! It's a hands-off and convenient way of cooking halloumi, especially if you're looking to reduce fat and calories. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Preparation:

First, preheat your air fryer to 180 degrees Celsius or 360 degrees Fahrenheit. While the air fryer is heating up, prepare the halloumi by slicing it into 6 equal-sized slices or cubes. You can also cut the halloumi into 12 slices if you prefer them thinner and want to reduce the cooking time. If you're making halloumi fries, cut the slices into halves. Once sliced, pat the halloumi dry with a paper towel or a clean cloth.

Cooking:

Brush all sides of the halloumi slices with olive oil. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with olive oil. Place the halloumi slices in the basket, ensuring they don't touch each other. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the halloumi in batches.

Cook the halloumi for 7 to 9 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking, as it can turn rubbery. For halloumi fries or smaller cubes, check on them around the 7-8 minute mark. If you prefer your halloumi to be crispier, cook for an additional 2-5 minutes.

Serving:

Halloumi is often served as an appetizer or a snack. It goes well with sliced cherry tomatoes, freshly chopped herbs, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. You can also serve it in a sandwich or wrap with avocado and tomato, or as a topping for scrambled eggs on toast.

Tips:

• Air-fried halloumi is similar to pan-fried halloumi but is less oily and can be drier. It's a good idea to serve it with something moist like juicy tomatoes or a salad with dressing.
• The cooking time may vary depending on the brand and size of your air fryer, so keep an eye on the halloumi to avoid overcooking.
• If you're making a large batch, you may need to cook the halloumi in multiple batches to ensure even cooking.
• For added flavour, season the halloumi with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, or mixed herbs before cooking.

Enjoy your delicious and crispy air-fried halloumi!

What temperature to cook halloumi in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook halloumi in an air fryer. It's a hands-off and convenient way of cooking halloumi, and a great option for those looking to reduce fat and calories.

To cook halloumi in an air fryer, preheat your air fryer to 180°C/360°F. Slice a block of halloumi (usually around 225g or 8oz) into 6 equal-sized slices. Dry the halloumi slices with a paper towel or clean cloth, and brush all sides with olive oil.

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, and place the halloumi slices in the basket, ensuring they are not touching. You may need to cook the halloumi in two batches.

Cook the halloumi for 7-9 minutes until golden brown, but be careful not to overcook, as it can become rubbery. For a more well-done texture, flip the halloumi over and cook for an additional 2-5 minutes.

The cooking time may vary depending on the brand and size of your air fryer, as well as the size and shape of the halloumi slices. For halloumi fries or smaller cubes, check on the halloumi around the 7-8 minute mark to avoid overcooking.

What to serve with halloumi

Halloumi is a versatile cheese that can be grilled, barbecued, or fried. It has a robust texture and a savoury, salty flavour. Here are some ideas for what to serve with halloumi:

As a Salad

Halloumi can be served with juicy tomatoes or in a salad with dressing to balance out the dryness of the cheese. For a simple salad, mix it with cherry tomatoes and herbs. For a more substantial salad, try pairing it with pasta, black beans, beet noodles, or lentils.

With Fruit

Halloumi pairs well with sweet, crisp watermelon, making for a refreshing summer salad. You can also experiment with different types of melon or citrus fruit.

In a Sandwich or Wrap

Halloumi can be served in a sandwich or wrap with avocado and tomato.

As a Topping

Halloumi can be used as a topping for scrambled eggs on toast or avocado toast. It can also be crumbled on top of a curry or pasta dish.

With Dips and Sauces

Halloumi fries are addictive bites that go well with a cooling harissa yoghurt or your favourite dips. Grilled or fried halloumi can also be served with a sweet chilli mayo or a sticky, sweet glaze, such as Lebanese pomegranate molasses.

As a Side Dish

Halloumi can be served as a side dish with grilled vegetables, such as eggplant, bell peppers, asparagus, mushrooms, or zucchini. It also goes well with roasted potatoes or a couscous salad.

How to store and reheat halloumi

Halloumi is best eaten straight away, as it can become rubbery if left to cool. However, if you have leftovers, there are a few ways to store and reheat it.

Storing Halloumi

To store leftover halloumi, put it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for up to 2 days. Line the container with a paper towel and separate any layers with parchment paper to keep the halloumi as crisp as possible. The paper towel will soak up excess moisture.

To store raw, opened halloumi, keep it in salt water in an airtight container for two weeks. Alternatively, tightly wrap the halloumi in wax or parchment paper and keep it in a sealed plastic bag. Replace the wrapping each time you unwrap the halloumi.

Reheating Halloumi

Most sources advise against reheating halloumi because it can turn rubbery and lose some of its flavour. However, there are a few methods that can help to salvage it.

The best way to reheat halloumi is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Place your halloumi directly on a wire rack or on some ridged foil and leave it to heat for 4-5 minutes. The halloumi is done when it’s hot to the touch.

Another good method is to reheat halloumi in a skillet. Heat a non-stick pan on medium-high heat (add some oil if you’re not using a non-stick pan). When the pan is up to temperature, add the halloumi and heat one side for 30-60 seconds. Flip the halloumi and heat the other side for another 30 seconds.

You can also reheat halloumi under the broiler. Set the broiler to a medium-high setting and spread the halloumi out on a wire rack. Heat one side for 30-60 seconds, then flip the halloumi over and heat for another 30 seconds.

If you’re short on time, you can reheat halloumi in the microwave, but it will likely become soggy and then harden. Spread the halloumi out on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 15-20 seconds, depending on the thickness of the halloumi.

Finally, you can reheat halloumi in an air fryer, but it will likely dry out. Set the air fryer to 350°F (180°C) and heat the halloumi for 1 minute, checking on it every 30 seconds.

Frequently asked questions