Description
Crispy oven-fried halloumi bites coated in a crunchy sesame and parmesan crust, baked to golden perfection and drizzled with a sweet and spicy hot honey drizzle. This delightful appetizer or snack combines salty cheese with a hint of heat and sweetness for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Halloumi Bites
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 (8 ounce) blocks halloumi cheese, cubed
- 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Black pepper, to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Hot Honey Drizzle
- 1/3 cup honey
- Red pepper flakes, a big pinch
- Sea salt, a pinch
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425° F (220° C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Halloumi: Whisk the eggs in a large bowl, add the cubed halloumi cheese, and toss gently to coat each piece evenly.
- Mix Coating: In a separate bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, grated parmesan, sesame seeds, paprika, and a pinch of black pepper, mixing well to blend all ingredients.
- Coat Halloumi: Remove each halloumi cube from the egg mixture, dredge it through the crumb mixture to coat thoroughly, and place on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure the halloumi pieces are spaced properly and not crowded for even baking.
- Add Olive Oil: Lightly drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the coated halloumi pieces to promote crispiness during baking.
- Bake Halloumi: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, then carefully flip each piece and bake for an additional 10 minutes. The halloumi bites should be golden and crisp on all sides when done.
- Make Hot Honey: While the halloumi bakes, mix together the honey, a generous pinch of red pepper flakes, and sea salt in a small bowl to create a sweet and spicy drizzle.
- Serve: Remove the halloumi bites from the oven and serve warm, drizzled generously with the hot honey. Optionally, serve with ketchup on the side for added flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the halloumi cubes are cut evenly to cook uniformly.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet; baking in batches may be necessary.
- You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes in the honey to control the spiciness level.
- For extra crispness, use room temperature olive oil and drizzle just before baking.
- Leftover halloumi bites can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
