Hot Honey Halloumi Fries

• 12 ounces halloumi cheese, cut into 1/2-inch sticks
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Steps

1. 1 In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. 2 Coat each halloumi stick in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
3. 3 Dredge the floured halloumi sticks in cornstarch, ensuring they're fully coated.
4. 4 Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5. 5 Fry the halloumi sticks in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
6. 6 Drain on paper towels and season lightly with salt.
7. 7 While frying, melt honey, hot sauce, and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until smooth and bubbly.
8. 8 Toss the fried halloumi fries in the hot honey mixture until well-coated.
9. 9 Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with chopped parsley.
10. 10 Serve immediately with any remaining sauce on the side.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Saucepan
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels

Variations

• Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick.
• Experiment with different cheeses for varied textures.

Substitutions

• If halloumi is unavailable, substitute with firm tofu or paneer for a similar texture.

Pairings

• Perfect as a bar snack or alongside a fresh garden salad.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra crispiness, ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying.
• Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your spice preference.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispiness.

Freezing: Not ideal for freezing due to texture changes in the cheese.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with celery sticks for a classic hot honey experience.
• Pair with a crisp IPA to balance the heat.

FAQ