Introduction
Halloumi fries have become a popular appetizer or side dish in recent years, thanks to their crispy exterior and soft, chewy texture inside. Made from halloumi cheese, these fries are savoury, lightly salty, and rich in flavour, making them a favourite at parties or as a delightful snack. In this article, we'll explore how you can easily make delicious halloumi fries at home using an air fryer, crafting an irresistible treat in just a few simple steps.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
Using an air fryer for cooking halloumi fries offers several benefits. Firstly, it requires significantly less oil compared to traditional frying methods, making the fries a healthier option while still retaining the desired crispy texture. Additionally, air fryers cook faster and are considerably easier to clean than traditional fryers, making the cooking process both quicker and more convenient.
Ingredients
- 250g of halloumi cheese
- 2 tablespoons of plain flour
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil (optional)
- Fresh lemon wedges for serving
- Optional dips: Sweet chilli sauce, yoghurt and mint dip
Instructions
- Preparation of Halloumi: Start by cutting the halloumi cheese into thick, fry-like strips. Use a sharp knife to ensure clean cuts, preventing the cheese from breaking.
- Coating the Fries: In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper together. Lightly dredge each piece of halloumi in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coat on all sides. This will help create a crispy outer layer once cooked.
- Prepping the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C for about 2-3 minutes. If you wish to enhance the crispiness, lightly drizzle or spray the halloumi fries with olive oil.
- Cooking: Place the coated halloumi strips in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching to allow even cooking. Air fry at 200°C for approximately 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through. They should be golden brown and crispy when done.
- Serving: Remove the fries from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve with fresh lemon wedges and your choice of dips. They are best enjoyed immediately for the optimal taste and texture.
Tips for Perfect Halloumi Fries
- As halloumi cheese is naturally salty, no additional salt is necessary in this recipe.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour coating.
- Halloumi fries can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Ensure they are brought to room temperature before air frying for best results.
Nutritional Information
Halloumi fries are a delicious treat, but it's worth noting their nutritional content. A standard portion without dips (approximately 5-6 strips) contains:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 24g
Enjoy these responsibly as part of a balanced diet.
Conclusion
Crafting the perfect halloumi fries in an air fryer is a straightforward process that brings a delightful taste experience to the table. The air fryer method not only delivers wonderfully crispy fries but also keeps the indulgence relatively healthier compared to traditional frying methods. Whether you're preparing these for a gathering or a quiet night in, they are sure to impress and satisfy all cheese lovers. So, grab your ingredients and enjoy this easy recipe that brings the Mediterranean flavours right to your kitchen!