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Halloumi Fries

Golden, crispy-edged halloumi cheese strips pan-fried until squeaky and caramelized, served with a bright lemon-herb dipping sauce. A fast, crowd-pleasing appetizer ready in under 20 minutes.

20 minEasyServes 4360 cal/serving

Middle EasternAppetizerStovetopVegetarianMediterraneanLow CarbHalal-friendlyGluten-FreeEgg-FreeNut-FreeLow-SodiumPork-FreeAlcohol-FreeCorn-Free

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Ingredients

  • 16 oz halloumi cheese, cut into strips
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 2 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (for dipping)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Pat 16 oz cut into strips halloumi cheese strips completely dry with paper towels - moisture causes spitting in the pan.

  2. 2

    Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

  3. 3

    Add the halloumi strips in a single layer without crowding. Fry undisturbed for 2 minutes until a deep golden crust forms, then flip and fry the other side for another 2 minutes. Work in batches if needed.

  4. 4

    While the halloumi fries, stir together 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (for dipping), the juice and zest of 1 zested and juiced lemon, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, and 2 tbsp chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley in a small bowl.

  5. 5

    Transfer the hot fries to a plate. Squeeze any remaining lemon juice over them and garnish with extra parsley and chili flakes. Serve immediately with the yogurt dip alongside.

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Questions

Why pat it dry first in Halloumi Fries?

Step 1 reads: "Pat 16 oz cut into strips halloumi cheese strips completely dry with paper towels - moisture causes spitting in the pan." Surface water has to boil off before anything can brown. Drying at step 1 means the food sears in the first minute instead of steaming.

What can I use instead of halloumi in Halloumi Fries?

The entry for Halloumi Fries calls for 16 oz halloumi cheese, cut into strips. In its place: Paneer or queso para freir also holds its shape in a hot pan. Both are less salty, so season them.

Can I make Halloumi Fries less spicy?

Yes. The heat in Halloumi Fries comes from 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. For a milder plate, halve the chili flakes; nothing else in the method changes.

Is Halloumi Fries low-carb?

A serving of Halloumi Fries carries 2 g of carbohydrate. Against a strict 20 g keto day that is 10 percent of the budget; against a moderate 100 g low-carb day it is 2 percent.

How many calories are in Halloumi Fries?

One serving (the recipe makes 4) is about 360 calories, with 22 g protein, 2 g carbohydrate and 25 g fat, plus 380 mg sodium. The figures are estimates computed from the ingredient list.

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