Introduction

Fried Halloumi Wara Wagashi is a delightful fusion dish that beautifully combines the rich, salty taste of halloumi cheese with the traditional flavors of West African snacks. This recipe presents a crispy and cheesy indulgence, perfect as an appetizer or a light meal. With its golden exterior and soft, gooey center, it is sure to impress your guests and make for a satisfying treat.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Halloumi cheese – 250g
Plain flour – 100g
Eggs – 2 large
Breadcrumbs – 150g
Ground coriander – 1 tsp
Ground cumin – 1 tsp
Salt and pepper – to taste
Vegetable oil – for frying

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

This recipe for Fried Halloumi Wara Wagashi is a perfect way to bring the flavors of different cuisines together, creating a snack that is both unique and universally appealing. Enjoy this crispy delight with your favorite dipping sauce or a fresh salad to balance its richness.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Halloumi

Cut the halloumi cheese into thick slices, about 1cm thick. This thickness helps the cheese to hold its shape during frying while remaining deliciously soft inside.

Prepare the Wara Wagashi

Take a bowl and mix together some plain flour, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. This mixture will create a light and flavorful coating for the halloumi.

Coat the Halloumi

Dredge each slice of halloumi in the flour mixture, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour to prevent clumping and ensure a nice crispy texture.

Fry the Halloumi

Heat a generous amount of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated halloumi slices to the pan. Fry until golden brown, approximately 2-3 minutes on each side.

Drain and Serve

Once fried, remove the halloumi from the pan and place it on a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb any excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

Choosing Halloumi

Opt for high-quality halloumi for the best flavor and texture. Look for a firm cheese that will fry well without falling apart.

Oil Temperature

Make sure the oil is at the right temperature before adding the halloumi; if it’s not hot enough, the cheese will absorb too much oil and become greasy.

Serving Suggestions

Fried halloumi pairs well with fresh salads, dips like tzatziki, or as part of a mezze platter.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, place them in a hot pan for a few minutes to crisp them up again.

Cook techniques

Frying Halloumi

Frying halloumi gives it a crispy exterior while maintaining its chewy texture. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a little oil. Once hot, place sliced halloumi in the pan and cook until golden brown on both sides.

Preparing Wara Wagashi

This traditional Japanese sweet-making technique involves shaping ingredients into small, decorative pieces. Use your hands to mold the dough into the desired shape, ensuring an aesthetic presentation.

Seasoning and Flavoring

Seasoning is crucial to enhance the flavors of the dish. Use ingredients like herbs, spices, or citrus zest to elevate the taste profile of your fried halloumi and wara wagashi.

Presentation

An appealing presentation makes all the difference. Arrange your fried halloumi and wara wagashi artfully on a serving plate, garnishing with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a vibrant look.

FAQ

Can I use other types of cheese besides halloumi?

While halloumi is ideal for frying due to its high melting point, you may experiment with other cheeses, but the texture and flavor will differ.

How do I store leftover fried halloumi?

Store any leftover fried halloumi in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, place it in a pan for a few minutes to restore its crispy texture.

What is the best oil to use for frying halloumi?

Olive oil is a great choice for frying halloumi due to its flavor and high smoke point. You can also use other oils like vegetable or canola oil.

How do I ensure the wara wagashi stays intact?

Ensure the dough is not too wet, and handle it carefully. If necessary, chill the shaped pieces in the fridge for a short time before serving to help them maintain their shape.

Can I make this dish in advance?

You can prepare both the fried halloumi and wara wagashi in advance, but it’s best to fry the halloumi just before serving to maintain its crispy texture.

Conclusion

Fried halloumi wara wagashi is a delightful dish that combines the salty, savory flavors of halloumi cheese with the sweet, comforting elements of traditional Islamic sweets. This unique fusion creates an unforgettable taste experience. The simple preparation allows the ingredients to shine, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or a comforting meal at home.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Spicy Halloumi Tacos

Pair fried halloumi with spicy salsa and avocado in soft tortillas for a satisfying taco night.

Halloumi and Vegetable Skewers

Combine cubes of halloumi with seasonal vegetables and grill for a tasty summer dish.

Halloumi Salad with Pomegranate

Mix fried halloumi with fresh greens, pomegranate seeds, and a zesty dressing for a refreshing salad.

Sweet Halloumi Sandwich

Create a sweet sandwich by layering fried halloumi with figs and honey on crusty bread.

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Halloumi

Add cubes of halloumi to your favorite vegetable stir-fry for a protein boost and rich flavor.