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Homemade Crispy Breaded Air Fryer Halloumi Fries

Halloumi fries have taken the culinary world by storm, celebrated for their deliciously crispy exterior and satisfyingly chewy centre. These delightful bites are perfect as an appetiser, snack, or party treat, and when cooked in the air fryer, they become a healthier alternative to their deep-fried counterparts. In this article, we’ll explore how to whip up a batch of homemade crispy breaded air fryer halloumi fries that are sure to impress your family and friends.

Why Halloumi?

Halloumi is a semi-hard, brined cheese originating from Cyprus and is known for its high melting point, making it perfect for frying or grilling. Its unique texture holds up beautifully when breaded and cooked, creating a fantastic combination of flavours and textures. Moreover, it’s a vegetarian delight that can easily be adapted to meet various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

To prepare your halloumi fries, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 250g halloumi cheese
• 80g plain flour
• 1 large egg
• 150g breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Paprika (optional, for added flavour)
• Cooking spray or olive oil for air frying
• Fresh herbs or lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Preparation Steps

1. Slice the Halloumi:
   Begin by slicing the halloumi cheese into fry-sized pieces, typically around 1cm thick. This thickness allows for a perfect balance of crispy exterior and chewy interior.

2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
   Prepare three separate shallow dishes: one for the plain flour, one for the beaten egg, and one for the breadcrumbs mixed with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).

3. Coat the Halloumi:
   Take each piece of halloumi and dredge it in the flour, ensuring it’s well-coated. Shake off any excess flour before dipping it into the beaten egg, allowing any surplus to drip off. Finally, roll the halloumi in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 390°F) for around 5 minutes. This step will help achieve that golden-brown finish.

5. Arrange for Frying:
   Lightly spray the basket of your air fryer with cooking spray. Place the breaded halloumi fries in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. If necessary, cook them in batches to maintain optimal crispiness.

6. Cooking Time:
   Air fry the halloumi fries for approximately 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through. You want them to be golden brown and crispy on all sides.

Serving Suggestions

Once cooked, remove the halloumi fries from the air fryer and serve immediately. They are delicious on their own or paired with a dipping sauce. Consider serving them with:

• Sweet chilli sauce for a sweet and spicy kick
• Tzatziki or garlic dip for a refreshing contrast
• Salsa or marinara for a robust flavour

For a finishing touch, garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or dill, and a squeeze of lemon juice to elevate the dish’s freshness.

Conclusion

Homemade crispy breaded air fryer halloumi fries are not only easy to make but also provide a healthier way to indulge in this cherished snack. With their impressive crunch and delightful taste, these fries will be a hit at any gathering or as a comforting treat for yourself. So grab your ingredients and get ready to impress—your tastebuds will thank you!

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