Name: Za'atar Crusted Halloumi Fries with Yogurt Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean cuisine
Ingredients: 250 g halloumi cheese (block, well-chilled); 0.5 cup all-purpose flour; 2 pcs eggs (large, beaten); 0.25 cup za'atar spice blend; 3 cup vegetable oil (for frying); tsp salt (to taste; null); 1 cup plain yogurt (full-fat or Greek style); 2 tbsp fresh mint (finely chopped); 1 pcs garlic (clove, minced (optional)); 0.5 tbsp lemon juice; tsp salt (to taste; null); tsp black pepper (to taste; null)

Golden halloumi fries, crusted with za'atar spice, are arranged artfully on a white plate next to a creamy yogurt dip, ready to be enjoyed.

Transform ordinary fries into an extraordinary culinary experience with these Za'atar Crusted Halloumi Fries. Halloumi cheese, renowned for its high melting point and satisfying salty flavour, is cut into fry-like sticks, breaded with a fragrant za'atar spice blend, and then fried to golden perfection. The result is a delightful contrast of crispy exterior and a wonderfully chewy, warm interior. As a standout side dish, these halloumi fries pair perfectly with the accompanying cooling, tangy yogurt and fresh mint dip, adding a refreshing counterpoint to the rich cheese. This Mediterranean-inspired side is quick to prepare, vegetarian-friendly, and an exciting alternative to traditional potato fries, perfect for sharing and impressing guests.

Preparation time: 15 min
Cooking time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Servings: 4

Instructions

Prepare the Dip

1In a small bowl, combine the plain yogurt, chopped fresh mint, minced garlic (if using), lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a dash of black pepper. Stir well to combine. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Prepare the Halloumi Fries

1Slice the well-chilled halloumi block into fry-like sticks, approximately 1/2 inch thick and 3 inches long. Pat them dry with paper towels.
2Set up a breading station: place the flour in a shallow dish, the beaten eggs in a second shallow dish, and the za'atar spice blend in a third shallow dish. Season the flour with a pinch of salt.
3Dredge each halloumi stick first in the seasoned flour, ensuring it's fully coated, then dip into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off, and finally roll in the za'atar blend until thoroughly coated.
4Heat the vegetable oil in a large deep skillet or a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C), or a small piece of bread sizzles immediately when dropped in.
5Carefully place a few halloumi sticks into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried halloumi fries to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Sprinkle lightly with additional salt if desired. Repeat with the remaining halloumi sticks.

Serve

1Serve the Za'atar Crusted Halloumi Fries immediately while hot, alongside the chilled yogurt and mint dip.

Instructions

Prepare the Dip

1In a small bowl, combine the plain yogurt, chopped fresh mint, minced garlic (if using), lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a dash of black pepper. Stir well to combine. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Prepare the Halloumi Fries

1Slice the well-chilled halloumi block into fry-like sticks, approximately 1/2 inch thick and 3 inches long. Pat them dry with paper towels.
2Set up a breading station: place the flour in a shallow dish, the beaten eggs in a second shallow dish, and the za'atar spice blend in a third shallow dish. Season the flour with a pinch of salt.
3Dredge each halloumi stick first in the seasoned flour, ensuring it's fully coated, then dip into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off, and finally roll in the za'atar blend until thoroughly coated.
4Heat the vegetable oil in a large deep skillet or a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C), or a small piece of bread sizzles immediately when dropped in.
5Carefully place a few halloumi sticks into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried halloumi fries to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Sprinkle lightly with additional salt if desired. Repeat with the remaining halloumi sticks.

Serve

1Serve the Za'atar Crusted Halloumi Fries immediately while hot, alongside the chilled yogurt and mint dip.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 15 g
Fat: 25 g
Carbs: 10 g

Nutrient	Per serving
Calories	350 kcal
Protein	15 g
Fat	25 g
Carbs	10 g

Tips

Ensure halloumi is very cold before cutting to maintain its shape. A slightly frozen block can be even easier to handle for uniform sticks.
Don't overcrowd the pan when frying; this lowers the oil temperature and can lead to soggy fries. Fry in batches for best results.
For extra zest, garnish the dip with a sprinkle of sumac or a drizzle of good quality olive oil before serving.