Hot Honey Sesame-Crusted Halloumi
A crispy, golden crusted halloumi cheese coated in sesame seeds, served warm and drizzled with sticky-spicy hot honey. A satisfying appetizer or salad topping with bold sweet-heat flavor.
Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
For the Sesame-Crusted Halloumi:
225g Halloumi cheese (1 standard block)
1 egg, beaten
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tbsp white sesame seeds
2 tbsp black sesame seeds (or more white if unavailable)
1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Hot Honey Drizzle:
3 tbsp honey
1–2 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
1 tsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
Pinch of salt
Optional Garnish:
Fresh herbs (like parsley or mint)
Lemon wedges
Extra chili flakes
Instructions
1. Prepare the Halloumi:
Slice the halloumi into sticks or thick rectangles (about 1 cm thick).
Pat dry with paper towels to reduce moisture.
2. Set up your breading station:
Place flour in one bowl, beaten egg in another, and mix white + black sesame seeds in a third.
3. Coat the Halloumi:
Dredge each piece in flour → dip in egg → press into sesame seeds to coat thoroughly.
4. Pan-fry:
Heat olive oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat.
Add the halloumi and fry for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Make Hot Honey:
In a small saucepan, warm honey with chili flakes and a pinch of salt.
Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes, then stir in vinegar or lemon juice.
Remove from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes.
6. Serve:
Plate the crispy halloumi and drizzle with hot honey.
Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon, if desired.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes Nutrition Information (per serving – approx. 1/2 of recipe)
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~360 kcal
Protein 18g
Fat 27g
Saturated Fat 13g
Carbohydrates 14g
Fiber 1g
Sugar 9g
Sodium ~900mg
Note: Values may vary slightly depending on brands and exact amounts used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bake instead of pan-fry the halloumi?
A: Yes! Place coated halloumi on a lined tray and bake at 200°C (390°F) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway. It won’t be as crispy but still tasty.
Q: Is hot honey spicy?
A: Mildly spicy. You can control the heat by adjusting chili flakes. For extra heat, use fresh chopped chilies or hot sauce.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: It’s best fresh, but you can prepare the coating and hot honey in advance. Reheat halloumi in a hot oven or pan to re-crisp.
Q: What to serve it with?
A: Great with salads, over roasted veggies, in wraps, or alongside couscous, lentils, or a mezze spr
ead.