Crispy Air-Fryer Halloumi Fries
There’s something addictively delicious about the crispy, salty goodness of halloumi fries. If you’ve had them before, you probably know how they can elevate any gathering or serve as the perfect snack while binge-watching your favorite series. This air-fryer version embraces that beloved texture while making it healthier and easier than ever to prepare. In just a matter of minutes, you’ll have golden, crunchy halloumi fries that are sure to impress your family and friends!
What makes this dish a must-try
You might wonder why you should take the time to make Air-Fryer Halloumi Fries at home rather than grabbing them from a restaurant. First off, they’re incredibly quick to whip up, taking just around 15 minutes from start to finish. Additionally, halloumi is a delightfully unique cheese that has a high melting point, making it perfect for frying without losing its shape. Whether you’re planning a casual family brunch or looking for the ideal party finger food, these fries tick all the boxes!
“These halloumi fries were a total hit at dinner! I couldn’t believe how crispy they turned out and they vanished in minutes. Best of all, they’re super easy to make!” – Sarah, a satisfied home cook
The cooking process explained
Making Air-Fryer Halloumi Fries is a straightforward and enjoyable process. The beauty of this recipe lies in how simple it is to transform a few key ingredients into something spectacular. You’ll start by prepping your halloumi, then set up a quick crumbing station, and finally let the air fryer do its magic. The entire process is as easy as One, Two, Three, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
Gather these items
To bring your delicious halloumi fries to life, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 400g halloumi cheese, cut into batons
- 1/2 cup plain all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- Olive oil spray
Substitutions: If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, though they may not give the same crunch. Also, feel free to mix up the spices in the breadcrumb mixture for a tailored flavor.
Step-by-step instructions
- Start by patting dry the halloumi batons with a paper towel. This ensures they get nice and crispy.
- Prepare your crumbing station using three shallow containers:
- In the first container, pour the plain flour.
- In the second, whisk together the eggs until well beaten.
- Lastly, in the third container, combine panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, and garlic salt.
- Dip each halloumi baton into the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Next, coat the baton in the beaten egg and roll it generously in the seasoned panko mix.
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 390°F).
- Spray the air fryer basket lightly with olive oil. Arrange the halloumi fries in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch—this is key for getting that crispiness.
- Lightly spray the tops with a little more olive oil.
- Air-fry for 9 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying again with oil if needed, until they are crisp and golden.
- Serve them hot with tomato relish or your favorite dipping sauce for that extra zing!
Creative ideas for plating
These halloumi fries are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Arrange them on a vibrant platter, perhaps garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. Pair them with a selection of dips such as tzatziki, honey mustard, or spicy aioli. They can also be served alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal, making them versatile enough for any occasion.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If by chance you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until heated through and crispy again. For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked, breaded halloumi fries. Just pop them in a freezer-friendly bag, and they will keep well for a month. When you’re ready to cook, no need to thaw—just air-fry them straight from the freezer!
Pro chef tips
- Aim for uniformity when cutting your halloumi batons; this ensures even cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; working in batches may take a bit more time, but it’ll yield a better result.
- If you want to spice things up, try adding some cayenne pepper or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture for a different flavor profile.
Creative twists
- Herbed Variation: Add some finely chopped fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, to the panko mix for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate chili flakes into the breadcrumb mixture for a fiery touch.
- Cheesy Delight: After air-frying, sprinkle some grated parmesan on top for an extra cheesy flavor.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make Air-Fryer Halloumi Fries?
From prep to cook, it takes about 15 minutes to enjoy this tasty treat.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While halloumi is recommended for its high melting point, you can try similar cheeses like paneer or aged cheddar, though the texture may differ.
What dipping sauces pair well with these fries?
Some popular choices include ketchup, tzatziki, barbecue sauce, or spicy aioli. Get creative and find your perfect pairing!
With a fantastic blend of flavors and textures, these Air-Fryer Halloumi Fries offer both delicious and guilt-free indulgence. Perfect for any occasion, they’ll surely become a new favorite in your kitchen!
Air-Fryer Halloumi Fries
Ingredients
Method
- Start by patting dry the halloumi batons with a paper towel to ensure they get nice and crispy.
- Prepare your crumbing station using three shallow containers: one with plain flour, one with beaten eggs, and the last with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, and garlic salt.
- Dip each halloumi baton into the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Coat the baton in the beaten egg and roll it generously in the seasoned panko mix.
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 390°F).
- Spray the air fryer basket lightly with olive oil. Arrange the halloumi fries in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch.
- Lightly spray the tops with a little more olive oil.
- Air-fry for 9 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying again with oil if needed, until they are crisp and golden.
- Serve them hot with tomato relish or your favorite dipping sauce.
