Craving a delicious snack that's easy to whip up and satisfies the need for something cheesy and savoury? Look no further! This halloumi popcorn recipe is not only simple to make but also perfect for air frying, ensuring a crispy texture with less oil.
What is Halloumi?
Halloumi is a semi-hard, unripened, brined cheese made from a mixture of goat's and sheep's milk, and sometimes cow's milk. Known for its distinctive texture and salty flavour, halloumi doesn't melt when cooked, making it ideal for grilling or frying.
Ingredient and Equipment Checklist
- 250g halloumi cheese
- 2 tablespoons plain flour
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil spray
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Chopping board
Preparation Steps
Here's how you can prepare this delightful snack in just a few steps:
- Prepare the Halloumi: Remove the halloumi from its packaging and rinse under cold water to remove excess brine. Pat dry with a paper towel.
- Cut the Halloumi: Place the halloumi on a chopping board and cut it into small, bite-sized cubes, approximately 1.5cm each.
- Mix the Spices: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper, ensuring they are evenly mixed.
- Coat the Halloumi: Add the halloumi cubes to the bowl and gently toss them in the seasoned flour mixture until they're well coated.
Air Frying the Halloumi Popcorn
The air fryer makes this process swift and clean without compromising on flavour:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 200°C (392°F) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.
- Arrange the Halloumi: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the coated halloumi cubes in a single layer in the basket, leaving some space between each piece.
- Cook the Halloumi: Cook the halloumi for 10-12 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Check for Doneness: The halloumi popcorn should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. If necessary, cook for an additional 2 minutes for extra crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
This halloumi popcorn is a versatile treat that can be served as:
- An appetiser at parties with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as sweet chilli or tzatziki.
- A snack during movie nights or family gatherings, paired with a refreshing drink.
- A topping for salads or grain bowls to add a crunchy element and rich flavour.
Tips for the Perfect Halloumi Popcorn
- Don't Overcrowd: Ensure there is enough space in the air fryer basket for air to circulate around the halloumi cubes for even cooking.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the seasoning mix to suit your taste, adding a pinch of chilli powder for a spicy kick or some dried herbs for a fresher flavour profile.
- Fresh Cheese: Opt for good-quality, fresh halloumi for the best results.
Conclusion
With this simple air fryer method, you can enjoy deliciously crispy and flavourful halloumi popcorn without the mess of traditional frying. Experiment with the seasonings and serving suggestions to make this recipe your own. Whether served as a snack or a party treat, these cheesy bites are guaranteed to be a hit!