Za'atar Crusted Halloumi Fries with Lemon Tahini Dip
Za'atar Crusted Halloumi Fries with Lemon Tahini Dip
Embark on a culinary journey to the Middle East with these utterly captivating Za'atar Crusted Halloumi Fries. This dish elevates simple halloumi cheese into an extraordinary appetizer or snack, showcasing the aromatic depth of za'atar, a cornerstone spice blend in Middle Eastern cuisine. Historically, za'atar has been a beloved staple, traditionally comprising dried thyme, oregano, marjoram, toasted sesame seeds, and sumac – a vibrant mix that delivers herbaceous, nutty, and tangy notes. Here, we transform halloumi, a salty, semi-hard, unripened brined cheese with a characteristic squeaky texture when cooked, into 'fries' by coating it in this fragrant seasoning. When pan-fried to a golden perfection, the za'atar forms an irresistible, crunchy crust that beautifully contrasts with the warm, resilient, and salty interior of the cheese. The experience is further brightened by a creamy, zesty lemon tahini dipping sauce, offering a delightful counterpoint to the rich, savory fries. This recipe is an exploration of distinct textures and bold, fresh flavors, ideal for entertaining or a sophisticated indulgence. It's a quick, impressive, and flavorful alternative to traditional fries, making it a must-try for culinary adventurers and fans of authentic Middle Eastern seasonings alike.
- Preparation time
- 15 min
- Cooking time
- 10 min
- Total time
- 25 min
- Servings
- 4
Ingredients
Za'atar Halloumi Fries
- 250g halloumi cheese(block, patted dry and cut into sticks)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 pc egg(large, beaten)
- 2 tbsp za'atar
- 2 tbsp olive oil(for frying)
Lemon Tahini Dip
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1 pc lemon(juice of)
- 2 tbsp cold water(or more, to reach desired consistency)
- 1/2 tsp garlic(minced (optional))
- 1/4 tsp salt(or to taste)
Instructions
Lemon Tahini Dip
- 1In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic (if using), and salt. The mixture will seize and thicken.
- 2Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, whisking continuously until the dip becomes smooth and creamy with your desired consistency. Set aside.
Za'atar Crusted Halloumi Fries
- 1Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with the za'atar.
- 2Take each halloumi stick and dredge it first in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten egg, ensuring it's fully coated. Finally, roll it in the za'atar, pressing gently to adhere the spice blend evenly.
- 3Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the halloumi sticks in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- 4Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. If using an air fryer, preheat to 375°F (190°C), lightly spray the halloumi with oil, and air-fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- 5Remove the halloumi fries from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- 6Serve the Za'atar Crusted Halloumi Fries immediately with the lemon tahini dip on the side.
Nutrition Information
- Calories
- 350 kcal
- Protein
- 15 g
- Fat
- 28 g
- Carbs
- 10 g
| Nutrient | Per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Carbs | 10 g |
Tips
- Draining and patting the halloumi dry is crucial for achieving a crispy crust, as excess moisture can lead to a soggy coating and splattering oil.
- Garnish the finished fries and dip with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of sumac for an extra touch of color and authentic Middle Eastern flavor.