Golden Halloumi with Honey and Thyme Recipe
Golden Halloumi with Honey and Thyme is a delightful appetizer featuring perfectly pan-fried halloumi cheese slices drizzled with sweet honey, fragrant fresh thyme, and a hint of chili flakes for a subtle kick. This quick and easy recipe highlights halloumi’s unique texture—crispy on the outside, soft and squeaky inside—making it an irresistible treat ideal for sharing or serving as a savory snack.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 minutes
- Total Time: 9 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese
- 225–250g (8oz) halloumi block (preferably Cyprus made PDO stamped)
For Cooking
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Finishing Touches
- 1 1/2 tbsp honey (or substitute maple syrup)
- 1/2 tsp fresh thyme leaves with tiny sprigs
- 2 – 3 pinches chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Slice the Halloumi: Cut the halloumi into 1 to 1.25 cm (0.4 to 0.5 inches) thick slices. Place the slices on a paper towel and gently pat dry to remove excess moisture for optimal frying.
- Warm the Serving Plate: Pre-warm a serving plate to keep the halloumi warm once cooked.
- Heat the Oil: In a non-stick pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Fry the Halloumi (Side One): Carefully place the halloumi slices in the hot oil. Cook for 1 to 1.5 minutes or until the underside turns golden and crisp. Move the slices slightly if needed to ensure even cooking.
- Flip and Fry (Side Two): Using a spatula and a butter knife to guide gently, turn the slices over. Cook the other side for 1 to 1.5 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer to Plate: Remove the golden halloumi slices from the pan and place them immediately on the pre-warmed serving plate.
- Finish with Honey, Thyme, and Chili: While the halloumi is still hot, quickly drizzle with honey (or maple syrup), sprinkle fresh thyme leaves, and add chili flakes if desired. For variety, cover some slices fully with honey and drizzle others lightly.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the halloumi straight from the pan to enjoy the ideal texture—crispy exterior with a soft, squeaky center. Optionally, serve with bread to mop up the honey.
Notes
- Use Cyprus PDO stamped halloumi if possible for authentic flavor and texture.
- Patting the halloumi dry before frying helps achieve a better golden crust.
- Adjust honey quantity according to taste; maple syrup works as a vegan substitute.
- Pre-warming the plate keeps the halloumi warm and crisp during serving.
- Chili flakes add a subtle heat but are optional depending on your preference.
Keywords: halloumi, fried halloumi, honey, thyme, appetizer, Mediterranean cheese, easy snack, vegetarian
