Marry Me Halloumi

by

Marry Me Halloumi: A Cheesy, Savory Delight:

Introduction:

This Marry Me Halloumi is a delectable dish that will have everyone falling in love with its crispy, golden-brown halloumi cheese and rich, flavorful tomato-based sauce. Perfect as a main course or a shareable appetizer, this easy-to-make dish combines simple ingredients with bold Mediterranean flavors, making it a must-try for cheese lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients:

For the Halloumi:

  • 1 block (8 oz) halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh basil leaves or parsley, chopped
  • Crusty bread or rice, for serving

Preparation Tips:

  1. Use High-Quality Halloumi: Choose a fresh block of halloumi for the best texture and flavor.
  2. Pat the Cheese Dry: Before frying, pat the halloumi slices dry with a paper towel to achieve a crispy, golden exterior.
  3. Control the Heat: Adjust the chili flakes to your spice preference or omit them entirely for a milder sauce.
  4. Balance the Sauce: The honey or sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, so don’t skip it.
  5. Serve Immediately: Halloumi is best enjoyed fresh and warm to maintain its crispy texture.

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Halloumi

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the halloumi slices in a single layer and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Remove the halloumi from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, chili flakes (if using), oregano, and honey or sugar. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

  1. Return the fried halloumi slices to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm the cheese through.
  2. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve immediately with crusty bread or over a bed of rice.

Description:

This Marry Me Halloumi is a symphony of textures and flavors, featuring crispy, golden halloumi cheese paired with a creamy, tangy tomato sauce. The smokiness of paprika, the sweetness of honey, and the richness of cream come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.

Nutritional Information:

  • Calories: 320
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Vitamin A: 15%
  • Vitamin C: 10%
  • Calcium: 25%
  • Iron: 8%

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I substitute halloumi with another cheese?
Yes, you can use paneer or firm tofu as a substitute, but the unique texture and saltiness of halloumi are hard to replicate.

2. Can I make this dish vegan?
For a vegan version, substitute the halloumi with tofu and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, but note that the halloumi may lose some of its crispiness.

4. Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?
Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini would be excellent additions to the sauce.

5. What can I serve with this dish?
Serve with crusty bread, rice, quinoa, or even pasta for a complete meal.

Recommendations:

  1. Pair with Wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir complements the flavors beautifully.
  2. Make It a Meal: Add roasted vegetables or a simple salad on the side for a wholesome meal.
  3. Double the Sauce: The sauce is so good, you might want to make extra for dipping bread or drizzling over rice.

Conclusion:

This Marry Me Halloumi is a quick and flavorful dish that showcases the versatility of halloumi cheese. With its crispy texture and the rich, smoky tomato sauce, it’s a recipe that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a family dinner, or just treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to impress!

Leave a Comment