Introduction
Haloumi fries are a delightful and crispy alternative to traditional potato fries, offering a unique texture and flavor that is sure to impress. Made from halloumi cheese, these fries are easy to prepare and perfect for snacking, serving as an appetizer, or even as a side dish. Coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture and fried until golden brown, they draw on the salty and stretchy characteristics of haloumi, making them irresistible. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation needed to create these delicious haloumi fries.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Haloumi cheese blocks: 360 g (12 oz) (2 x 180 g/6 oz blocks)
Plain/all-purpose flour: ½ cup
Smoked paprika: 1 tbsp (substitute with ordinary paprika if needed)
Italian herbs: 1 tbsp
Ground white pepper: 1 tsp (substitute with black pepper if needed)
Cooking/kosher salt: ¼ tsp
Large eggs: 2, whisked
Panko breadcrumbs: 1 cup (or ordinary breadcrumbs)
Canola oil: 2 cups (or other neutral oil) for frying
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Approximately 4 servings
Directions
Prepare the Haloumi:
Cut the haloumi into sticks approximately 1 cm (0.4 inches) thick.
Set Up the Breading Station:
In the first bowl, combine the flour, smoked paprika, Italian herbs, ground white pepper, and salt. In the second bowl, place the whisked eggs. In the third bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs.
Bread the Haloumi Sticks:
Dredge each haloumi stick in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating. Dip the floured stick into the whisked eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Coat the stick with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Place the breaded sticks on a plate or tray.
Fry the Haloumi Fries:
In a deep saucepan, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat to approximately 180°C (350°F). Carefully add a few breaded haloumi sticks to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fries and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining haloumi sticks.
Serve:
Serve the haloumi fries warm with your preferred dipping sauce. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Haloumi
Cut the haloumi into sticks approximately 1 cm (0.4 inches) thick.
Set Up the Breading Station
In the first bowl, combine the flour, smoked paprika, Italian herbs, ground white pepper, and salt. In the second bowl, place the whisked eggs. In the third bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs.
Bread the Haloumi Sticks
Dredge each haloumi stick in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating. Dip the floured stick into the whisked eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Coat the stick with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Place the breaded sticks on a plate or tray.
Fry the Haloumi Fries
In a deep saucepan, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat to approximately 180°C (350°F). Carefully add a few breaded haloumi sticks to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fries and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining haloumi sticks.
Serve
Serve the haloumi fries warm with your preferred dipping sauce.
Notes
Haloumi Selection
Choose high-quality haloumi cheese for the best flavor and texture.
Substitutions
If smoked paprika is not available, regular paprika can be used as a substitute. Ground white pepper can be replaced with black pepper if preferred.
Oil Temperature
Ensure the oil is sufficiently heated to achieve a crispy texture; using a thermometer can help with accuracy.
Serving Suggestions
These haloumi fries pair well with sauces like tzatziki, marinara, or a spicy aioli.
Cook techniques
Preparing Haloumi
Cut the haloumi cheese into sticks approximately 1 cm (0.4 inches) thick. This size ensures even cooking and a satisfying texture.
Breading Station Setup
Create a three-step breading station. In the first bowl, mix flour with paprika, Italian herbs, white pepper, and salt. The second bowl holds whisked eggs, and the third contains panko breadcrumbs for a crispy coating.
Breading Haloumi Sticks
Dredge each haloumi stick in the flour mixture for an even coating. Dip it in the eggs, allowing excess to drip off, and then coat it with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently for adhesion.
Frying Haloumi Fries
Heat canola oil in a deep saucepan to around 180°C (350°F). Fry the breaded haloumi sticks in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally.
Serving
Serve the haloumi fries warm with your choice of dipping sauce for an enhanced flavor experience.
FAQ
Can I use other cheeses instead of haloumi?
While haloumi is ideal due to its firm texture, you can experiment with other cheese types, but the results may differ in texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?
Ordinary breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for panko, though they may not provide the same level of crispiness.
How can I make these fries healthier?
You can bake the breaded haloumi sticks in the oven at a high temperature instead of frying them, which will reduce the amount of oil used.
What dipping sauces pair well with haloumi fries?
Haloumi fries are delicious with various dipping sauces, including tzatziki, marinara, sweet chili sauce, or garlic aioli.
How do I store leftover haloumi fries?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer for best results to maintain crispiness.
Conclusion
The haloumi fries are a delightful and crispy treat that can elevate any meal or serve as a scrumptious snack. Their rich flavor and satisfying crunch make them a hit at parties or gatherings. Enjoy them fresh and hot for the best experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Haloumi and Vegetable Skewers
Combine pieces of haloumi with colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Grill or bake for a tasty and healthy option.
Haloumi Salad
Create a refreshing salad by adding fried haloumi sticks to mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy lemon dressing for a delicious contrast.
Haloumi Burger
Use fried haloumi sticks in place of a meat patty in a burger. Top with avocado, lettuce, and your choice of sauce for a unique twist on the classic.
Spicy Haloumi Wraps
Wrap fried haloumi in a tortilla with fresh vegetables, hummus, and a drizzle of sriracha for an exciting lunch option.
Haloumi Pasta
Mix haloumi fries with pasta, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a light garlic sauce for a hearty meal that’s full of flavor.
Haloumi and Quinoa Bowl
Serve haloumi fries over a bed of quinoa, topped with roasted vegetables and a zesty dressing for a filling and nutritious bowl.
