Description
Golden Halloumi with Honey and Thyme is a quick and delicious dish featuring slices of Cypriot PDO halloumi cheese pan-fried until golden and topped with sweet honey, fragrant fresh thyme, and optional chilli flakes for a subtle kick. This savory-sweet combination creates a delightful appetizer or snack perfect for serving warm and enjoying the contrasting textures of crisp exterior and soft interior cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 225–250g (8oz) halloumi cheese (block, Cyprus made PDO stamped recommended)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup as a substitute)
- 1/2 tsp fresh thyme leaves and tiny sprigs
- 2–3 pinches chilli flakes (red pepper flakes, optional)
Instructions
- Slice the Halloumi: Cut the halloumi block into slices about 1 to 1.25 cm (0.4 to 0.5 inches) thick. Place the slices on paper towels and gently pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
- Warm the Serving Plate: Pre-warm the serving plate to ensure the halloumi stays warm once plated.
- Heat the Oil: In a non-stick pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Fry the Halloumi Slices: Carefully place the halloumi slices in the hot oil. Cook for about 1 to 1.5 minutes on one side until golden brown, moving slices occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Flip and Fry the Other Side: Turn the slices gently using a spatula and butter knife to avoid breaking the cheese. Cook for another 1 to 1.5 minutes until the other side is also golden.
- Transfer to Plate: Remove the golden halloumi slices from the pan and place them on the warmed serving plate.
- Add Finishing Touches: Quickly drizzle honey over the slices, using full coverage on some and just a light drizzle on others. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves and optional chilli flakes as desired.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the halloumi hot and fresh to enjoy its prime texture—crispy on the outside and soft inside. Use the honey on the plate as a dip if serving with bread.
Notes
- Using Cyprus PDO stamped halloumi ensures authentic flavor and texture.
- Patting the halloumi dry before frying helps achieve a perfectly crisp exterior.
- You can substitute maple syrup for honey if preferred.
- Warming the serving plate helps keep the halloumi warm while serving.
- Serving immediately preserves the ideal texture and prevents the cheese from becoming rubbery or squeaky.
- Chilli flakes are optional and add subtle heat to balance the sweetness of the honey.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: halloumi, fried cheese, honey halloumi, thyme, appetizer, Mediterranean cheese, quick snack
