Save The first time I encountered halloumi, I was genuinely confused—it squeaked when I bit into it. I was at a friend's house, and she'd pan-fried thick slabs until golden. Then she drizzled this honey mixture that looked simple but made me pause after the first bite.
Last summer, I made this for a porch dinner with neighbors. Someone brought over extra crusty bread, and we ended up frying another batch because the first disappeared while people were still arriving. The conversation kept circling back to that honey glaze.
Ingredients
- 225 g halloumi cheese: This Cypriot cheese holds its shape when heated and develops a gorgeous golden crust. Look for it vacuum-packed in the specialty cheese section.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: A neutral oil works, but olive adds subtle fruitiness that complements the honey. Use enough to coat the pan bottom evenly.
- 3 tbsp honey: The honey's floral notes balance the cheese's saltiness. Mild varieties let the other flavors shine without overpowering.
- 1-2 tsp hot sauce: Sriracha brings garlic heat, while chili flakes offer a more direct spice. Start light—you can always add more at the end.
- ½ tsp lemon juice: Fresh lemon cuts through the rich honey and salty cheese. It's the brightness that makes you reach for another piece.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley: This adds color and a fresh herbal finish. Mint or cilantro work beautifully too if that's what you have on hand.
Instructions
- Pat the halloumi dry:
- Remove excess moisture with paper towels so the cheese fries instead of steams. This step makes the difference between golden and soggy.
- Heat the olive oil:
- Warm a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers. You want it hot enough to sizzle immediately when the cheese hits the pan.
- Fry the halloumi slices:
- Cook in a single layer for 2 to 3 minutes per side. Watch for the edges to turn golden brown and the surface to develop a satisfying crust.
- Mix the hot honey glaze:
- Whisk together honey, hot sauce, and lemon juice until smooth. The heat helps dissolve the honey into a cohesive drizzling consistency.
- Drizzle and serve immediately:
- Transfer the hot halloumi to your serving plate first, then spoon the glaze over while everything's still warm. The slight melt is magical.
Save I've started keeping a spare package of halloumi in the fridge specifically for those nights when friends call and say they're dropping by. It's become my go-to, something I can make without thinking while catching up in the kitchen.
Make It Your Own
Switch up the heat level by using pepper-infused honey instead of hot sauce for a different kind of warmth. Or add a minced garlic clove to the honey mixture for extra depth.
Serving Ideas
This works as an appetizer with crostini, a side alongside grilled vegetables, or even crumbled over salads. The sweet-spicy element makes it surprisingly versatile.
Timing Tips
Have everything prepped before you start frying. The halloumi cooks fast, and you want to serve it piping hot with the glaze still fresh.
- Mix the honey glaze while the pan heats up
- Warm your serving plate in the oven for five minutes
- Have garnishes ready before the first slice hits the oil
Save There's something deeply satisfying about transforming a simple cheese into something that feels like a treat. This recipe proves that exceptional food often comes down to quality ingredients and the right contrast of flavors.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I get the halloumi crispy?
Pat the halloumi dry before frying and cook in hot olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side until golden.
- → Can I adjust the heat level of the honey glaze?
Yes, increase or decrease the amount of hot sauce or chili flakes to suit your preferred spice level.
- → What can I use instead of parsley for garnish?
Fresh mint or cilantro make excellent alternatives to add a refreshing twist.
- → Is halloumi suitable for vegetarians?
Halloumi is a vegetarian-friendly cheese made from milk, making it a great protein option.
- → What sides pair well with hot honey halloumi?
Crusty bread or a crisp green salad complement the rich and spicy flavors nicely.