Ingredients
Halloumi Fries
- 14oz / 400g halloumi cheese
- 1 ¼ cups panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup plain all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 eggs
- Pinch of salt
- Olive oil spray for air fryer / oven methods
- Olive or preferred cooking oil for pan frying
Dipping Sauce
- Sriracha aioli, for serving
Instructions
- Slice the Halloumi: Cut the halloumi cheese into strips about ½ inch (1.5 cm) thick, resembling thick-cut fries.
- Prepare the Dipping Stations: Set up three bowls. In the first, combine flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs. The third bowl holds the panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat the Fries: Using one hand for wet ingredients and the other for dry, dredge each halloumi strip first in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess, then dip in the egg, and finally coat thoroughly with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Place coated pieces on a plate.
- Repeat: Continue coating all halloumi strips in the same way until all are breaded.
- Air Fryer Method: Preheat air fryer to 400℉ (200℃). Lightly spray the basket with olive oil. Arrange coated halloumi fries in a single layer without overcrowding. Spray the fries generously with olive oil spray. Cook for 6 minutes, then flip fries, spray the other side with oil, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy (8-10 minutes total).
- Pan Fry Method: Heat about ¼ cup oil in a deep or medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Confirm oil is ready by sprinkling a bit of flour; it should sizzle immediately. Fry halloumi fries in batches, avoiding overcrowding, for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 1 minute. Remove and drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining fries.
- Oven Bake Method: Preheat oven to 400℉ (200℃). Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Arrange halloumi fries in a single layer without touching. Spray generously with olive oil spray. Bake for 10 minutes, then flip, spray the other side, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Enjoy the crispy halloumi fries hot with a side of sriracha aioli for dipping.
Notes
- Using one hand for wet dips and one for dry coatings keeps your breading process less messy.
- Work in batches when frying or air frying to prevent overcrowding, which helps fries crisp up properly.
- If you prefer, substitute garlic powder with fresh minced garlic for a more intense flavor.
- Adjust the cooking time slightly depending on your appliance’s power or your preferred level of crispiness.
- To make the sriracha aioli, mix mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and a squeeze of lime juice to taste.
- Halloumi tends to squeak when you bite into it — that’s a sign of freshness and quality.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
