How to Cook Halloumi

Halloumi is a traditional cheese from the Eastern Mediterranean island country of Cyprus, the eastern most part of Europe. Even though it can be enjoyed raw, it is the best cheese for frying and grilling thanks to its high melting point. Whether it's part of a traditional Cypriot meze platter or made into halloumi fries or panini, it's infinitely versatile, with so many ways to enjoy it and incorporate it in dishes.

How to Cook Halloumi

Here we'll show you how to grill and how to pan fry halloumi for an easy appetizer or meal in mere minutes.

How to Grill Halloumi

Grilling is popular way to enjoy halloumi cheese, especially during the warmer months. It makes a great vegetarian barbeque option, but it's so delicious that even the meat-eaters will devour it! Grilling halloumi on the BBQ creates a nice crispy outside with a soft texture in the center.

Step 1
Cut halloumi into 1/4-inch slices.

Step 2
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium high-heat. Oil grate well to to avoid sticking.

Step 3
Add halloumi slices to hot oiled grill and BBQ for 1 to 2 minutes until grill marks form and cheese has slightly softened. Flip and repeat on other side.

Step 4
Remove from BBQ and enjoy immediately while hot. Use the halloumi in your favorite recipe, or serve on a platter simply dressed with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and sprinkling of oregano.

How to Fry Halloumi

Pan-fried halloumi is so easy to make and since all you need is a skillet and a stove, it can be enjoyed year round. With its relatively high moisture content, halloumi does not need any oil for frying.

Step 1
Cut halloumi into 1/4-inch slices.

Step 2
Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat.

Step 3
Once pan is hot, add halloumi slices and let cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until lightly golden. Flip and repeat with other side.

Step 4
Remove halloumi from pan and enjoy while it's hot.

More Inspiration

• All About Halloumi
• Recipe: Grilled Halloumi
• Allrecipes' Global Kitchen