Halloumi

Halloumi

Halloumi

A plate of grilled halloumi cheese
Place of origin	Cyprus
Cookbook: Halloumi   Media: Halloumi

Halloumi is a semi-hard cheese that is popular in the Mediterranean region, especially in Cyprus. It is made from a mixture of cow, goat, and sheep milk, and has a distinctive salty and slightly tangy taste. Halloumi is unique in that it can be grilled or fried without melting, making it a popular ingredient in a variety of dishes.

History

Halloumi has been produced in Cyprus for centuries, with the earliest references to the cheese dating back to the medieval period. The cheese is believed to have been introduced to Cyprus by Byzantine monks who brought their cheese-making techniques with them from Anatolia.

Production

Halloumi is made from a mixture of cow, goat, and sheep milk, although some modern versions may also include cow's milk only. The milk is heated and then coagulated with rennet or lemon juice, before being shaped into rectangular blocks. The cheese is then placed in a brine solution for several hours, which gives it its characteristic salty taste.

Culinary uses

Halloumi is a versatile cheese that can be eaten both cold and hot. It is often served as a meze or appetizer, either on its own or as part of a mixed platter with other Mediterranean-style foods such as olives, hummus, and pita bread.

One of the most popular ways to serve halloumi is grilled or fried. When heated, the cheese develops a crispy golden crust on the outside, while remaining soft and chewy on the inside. Grilled halloumi is often served as a side dish or added to salads, sandwiches, and wraps. It can also be used as a meat substitute in vegetarian dishes.

Health benefits

Halloumi is a good source of protein and calcium, and is relatively low in fat compared to other types of cheese. However, like all cheese, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high salt content.

Availability

Halloumi is widely available in Mediterranean countries, especially in Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey. It has also become increasingly popular in Western countries in recent years, and can often be found in specialty food stores and supermarkets.

Serving Suggestions

Halloumi cheese can be enjoyed in many ways. Below are some popular serving suggestions:

Grilled or fried halloumi slices served as a side dish, with a squeeze of lemon juice Halloumi cheese added to sandwiches, wraps or salads Grated halloumi cheese used as a topping for pizzas or pasta dishes Halloumi cubes added to a vegetable skewer or used as a meat substitute in kebabs Halloumi cheese as an ingredient in savory pies or pastries

Variations

There are a number of variations of halloumi cheese available, depending on the type of milk used and the region in which it is made. Some of the most common variations include:

Cow's milk halloumi: Made only with cow's milk, this type of halloumi is typically milder in flavor than traditional halloumi. Goat's milk halloumi: Made with goat's milk, this type of halloumi has a distinct tangy flavor. Sheep's milk halloumi: Made with sheep's milk, this type of halloumi is considered to be the most flavorful and traditional variety.

Controversy

There has been some controversy surrounding the production and export of halloumi cheese. In 2021, the European Union granted halloumi cheese a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, which means that only halloumi cheese produced in Cyprus can be labeled as "halloumi". This move was met with some criticism from producers outside of Cyprus, who argued that it could limit their ability to sell their products in the EU.

Conclusion

Halloumi is a unique and versatile cheese that is beloved by people around the world. Whether served grilled, fried, or added to a salad or sandwich, it is sure to delight any cheese lover. Its popularity is only set to grow, as more people discover the joys of this delicious and distinctively Mediterranean cheese.

See also

Cypriot cuisine List of cheeses

Halloumi also known as Hellim is a white cheese made out of goat's milk. It is not a hard or a soft cheese, and can be fried to a crispy coating. Halloumi cheese originated in the island of Cyprus.