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Golden Halloumi with Honey and Thyme Recipe

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4.2 from 10 reviews

  • Author: Eliza
  • Total Time: 6 minutes
  • Yield: 1 serving

Description

Golden Halloumi with Honey and Thyme is a quick and delightful appetizer or snack featuring crispy pan-fried halloumi cheese drizzled with sweet honey and aromatic thyme, with an optional kick of chili flakes. It’s a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors served warm for the best texture and taste experience.

Ingredients

Halloumi Cheese

  • 225-250g (8oz) halloumi, block style, Cyprus made PDO stamped recommended

For Cooking

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For Finishing

  • 1 1/2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup as substitution)
  • 1/2 tsp fresh thyme leaves and tiny sprigs
  • 2 - 3 pinches chili flakes (red pepper flakes), optional

Instructions

  1. Slice and Dry: Cut the halloumi into 1 to 1.25 cm (0.4 to 0.5 inch) thick slices. Place the slices on paper towels and gently pat them dry to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a golden crust when frying.
  2. Warm Plate: Pre-warm your serving plate to keep the halloumi warm after frying (this helps maintain its texture).
  3. Heat Oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering.
  4. Fry First Side: Carefully place the halloumi slices in the hot oil using your hands. Fry for approximately 1 1/2 minutes, or until the underside turns golden brown. Shuffle the slices slightly if necessary to ensure even cooking.
  5. Turn and Fry Second Side: Gently flip the slices using a spatula and butter knife to guide them. Fry the other side for another 1 to 1 1/2 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Transfer to Plate: Remove the halloumi slices from the pan and transfer them immediately onto the pre-warmed serving plate to keep warm and crispy.
  7. Add Finishing Touches: While the halloumi is still hot, quickly drizzle with honey, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves, and add chili flakes if using. Some slices can have full honey coverage, while others just a light drizzle, creating a variety of flavor experiences.
  8. Serve Immediately: Serve the dish right away for best texture — crispy on the outside and soft inside. The honey on the plate is perfect for mopping with bread alongside the cheese.

Notes

  • Use Cyprus-made halloumi with PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) stamp for authentic flavor and texture.
  • Patting the halloumi dry before frying is essential to achieve a crisp golden surface.
  • Warming the serving plate helps maintain heat and texture of the cheese after cooking.
  • Maple syrup can be used instead of honey for a different sweetness profile or for vegans.
  • Chili flakes are optional but add a nice contrast to the sweet honey and salty cheese.
  • The cheese is best enjoyed immediately after frying before it becomes rubbery or squeaky.
  • Prep Time: 3 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Find it online: https://recipekind.com/golden-halloumi-with-honey-and-thyme-recipe/