These little Halloumi Bites are kind of addictive. Every bite makes you want more, and more, and more. The combination of pomegranate, dates and sesame seeds makes it a fresh, colorful appetizer dish that will definitely impress.
Halloumi originates in Cyprus, and is a popular cheese in the Eastern Mediterranean. It is often used as an alternative to meat. But, to me, Halloumi is way more than just an alternative.
In comparison with other cheeses, Halloumi has a unique, chewy texture. It is mild tasting, but at the same time characteristically salty. To me, it’s kind of a mixture between Mozzarella and Feta cheese. I, personally, find it super tasty and a worthy protagonist.
The sweet and spicy dressing perfectly complements the saltiness of the Halloumi Bites themselves, and the addition of the pomegranate adds a touch of freshness.
Careful; these are addictive!
HALLOUMI BITES
INGREDIENTS
Halloumi Bites
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 Halloumi approx. 150 g each cut into 2×2 cm cubes
- 3 tbsp sesame seeds
Topping
- 4 tbsp pomegranate seeds
- 4 dates pitted and cut into thin slices
Dressing
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey liquid
- 2-3 tbsp red chili flakes
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 pinch of salt
INSTRUCTIONS
Halloumi Bites
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick frying pan, frying the Halloumi pieces on all sides for approx. 8 minutes total until golden brown all over. Using a teaspoon, immediately sprinkle sesame seeds all over the Halloumi cheese. If you really like sesame seeds, immediately dip the Halloumi cheese into the sesame seeds. It’s important you do this while the cheese is still hot, with its oily, fried surface, otherwise, the seeds will not stick to the cheese.
Topping
- Arrange the Halloumi cheese bites on a serving platter, sprinkling over them the pomegranate seeds and dates.
Dressing
- For the dressing, mix all the ingredients well in a small bowl. Then, drizzle half of the mixture over the Halloumi bites and serve the other half separately in a bowl. Serve immediately while the Halloumi cheese is still warm.
