Crispy Halloumi Fries with Pomegranate Drizzle
If you are looking for a snack that feels restaurant-worthy but is surprisingly easy to make at home, crispy halloumi fries are a great place to start. Halloumi has a unique texture that holds its shape when heated, turning golden and crisp on the outside while staying soft and slightly chewy inside. Paired with a sweet and tangy pomegranate drizzle, these fries hit every flavor note: salty, smoky, sweet, and bright.
They work beautifully as an appetizer, party platter addition, or even a fun side dish. Once you try them fresh and hot, you will understand why they disappear quickly.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: About 20–25 minutes
Servings: 3–4
Ingredients
Halloumi Fries
250 g halloumi cheese
½ cup cornstarch (or all-purpose flour)
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp black pepper
Oil for frying (about 1–1½ cups, depending on pan size)
Pomegranate Drizzle
3 tbsp pomegranate molasses
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
Slice the halloumi. Cut the halloumi into thick fry-shaped sticks, about 1 cm wide. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Prepare the coating. In a shallow bowl, combine cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well.
Coat the fries. Toss the halloumi sticks in the cornstarch mixture, making sure each piece is fully coated. Shake off excess.
Heat the oil. Pour oil into a deep skillet so it reaches about 1–2 cm up the sides. Heat over medium until hot but not smoking.
Fry in batches. Carefully add halloumi sticks in a single layer. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Avoid overcrowding.
Drain. Remove fries with a slotted spoon and place on a plate lined with paper towels.
Make the drizzle. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate molasses, honey, and lemon juice until smooth.
Plate the fries. Arrange the crispy halloumi fries on a serving platter while still hot.
Drizzle generously. Spoon the pomegranate mixture lightly over the fries.
Serve immediately. Enjoy while warm for the best texture and flavor.
Tips
Patting the halloumi dry helps the coating stick better.
Cornstarch gives a lighter, crispier finish than flour.
Do not skip seasoning in the coating. Halloumi is salty, but spices add depth.
Keep oil temperature steady for even browning.
Fry in small batches to avoid soggy fries.
Serve immediately, as halloumi firms up as it cools.
If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the honey slightly.
Add a pinch of chili flakes to the drizzle for a subtle kick.
Use a heavy-bottomed pan to maintain consistent heat.
Taste the drizzle before serving and adjust lemon for balance.
Variations
Bake instead of fry at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes until crisp.
Add sesame seeds to the coating for texture.
Use za’atar in place of paprika for a Middle Eastern twist.
Sprinkle chopped fresh mint over the top before serving.
Serve with garlic yogurt dip alongside the drizzle.
Add a light dusting of grated Parmesan after frying.
Replace lemon juice with balsamic vinegar for a deeper flavor.
Make mini halloumi bites instead of fries for party platters.
Serve over a bed of arugula for a more composed appetizer.
Q&A
What is halloumi?
It is a semi-hard cheese that can be grilled or fried without melting.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, baking works well but the texture will be slightly less crisp.
Why is my coating falling off?
Make sure the cheese is dry before coating.
Can I prepare them in advance?
They are best fresh, but you can slice and coat ahead of time.
Is pomegranate molasses very sweet?
It is tangy and slightly sweet, balanced by lemon.
Can I skip honey?
Yes, if you prefer a sharper drizzle.
What oil is best for frying?
Use neutral oils like vegetable or sunflower oil.
Are they very salty?
Halloumi is naturally salty, so avoid adding extra salt.
Can I freeze halloumi fries?
Freezing is not recommended after frying, as texture changes.
What can I serve with them?
They pair well with salads, wraps, or grilled meats.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving)
Calories: 360
Protein: 15 g
Fat: 26 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 7 g
Sodium: 700 mg
Values will vary based on frying method and portion size.
Conclusion
Crispy Halloumi Fries with Pomegranate Drizzle offer a perfect contrast of textures and flavors. The outside is golden and crunchy, the inside is warm and satisfying, and the drizzle adds brightness that keeps each bite interesting. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or creative side dish, this recipe brings bold flavor with minimal effort. Once you try them fresh from the pan, you will likely find yourself making them again whenever you want something a little different but truly delicious.