Halloumi Tacos

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Enjoy the distinctive mix of savoury halloumi cheese with vibrant peppers and zesty taco spices in these delectable halloumi tacos. Ideal for a vegetarian twist on taco evening!

Halloumi cheese tacos provide a delightful variation on traditional tacos, whether you’re aiming to consume less meat or simply desire a change.

They can be accompanied by all your preferred taco tastes, extras, sides, dips and fillings, with the halloumi cheese being appetizing and gratifying.

Why I Adore Halloumi Tacos

I appreciate these halloumi tacos because:

• I adore halloumi! So genuinely, anything with Halloumi is fantastic.
• Fried Halloumi serves as an excellent meat alternative; it remains substantial, is filling, and tastes wonderful. These are simple vegetarian tacos.
• You can prepare them spicy or mild.
• Tacos are entertaining, making them ideal for enjoying with children.
• You can include sides, although it’s not necessary. Filled taco boats make for a satisfying meal by themselves.

Components for Halloumi Tacos

When I whip up this simple halloumi tacos recipe, I utilize:

Cooking Spray – Olive oil and other cooking oils are acceptable as well.

Red Onion

Halloumi Cheese – I use two packages.

Red Pepper

Yellow Pepper – Red and yellow are our top choices, but feel free to use whatever you prefer.

Cumin

Chilli Powder

Paprika

Oregano

Ground Cinnamon

Salt and Pepper

Soft Taco Boats – My children find soft stand-and-fill style taco boats simpler to fill and consume compared to crunchy shells or soft tortilla wraps, but this is merely a preference. If it were just for me, I’d likely opt for crunchy shells.

How you present your tacos is entirely your choice. I add cheese and dips. You can gather some suggestions below.

You’ll Also Require

You don’t need a lot to prepare this recipe for halloumi tacos. I employ:

• Sharp knife and chopping board.
• Large, non-stick frying pan. Or any other heatproof cooking utensil or skillet.
• Spatula.
• Cheese grater.
• Small bowl and spoon for the spice mixture.

How to Prepare Halloumi Tacos – Step-by-Step Directions

Comprehensive, easy-to-follow instructions and measurements are accessible in the recipe card at the end of this post.

Step One

Combine the cumin, chilli, paprika, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Set it aside until needed.

Step Two

Generously spray a large, nonstick pan with cooking spray and heat on medium temperature on the stovetop.

Step Three

Introduce the onions and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step Four

Incorporate the halloumi and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring regularly. Your halloumi will become tender, moisture will be released, and it may break apart slightly. This is completely acceptable.

Step Five

Add in the peppers. I prefer my peppers to retain a bit of crunch, so I proceed directly. If you prefer them softer, cook for 5 minutes initially.

Step Six

Sprinkle the prepared spice blend and mix thoroughly. I utilize the entire blend. If you seek a milder taste, use half. You can cover and store the remainder in a cool, dark cupboard.

Step Seven

Add the water, stir and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step Eight

Lower the heat if needed and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step Nine

Present in taco boats with salad and condiments of your liking, then top with grated cheese.

Pro Tips for Flawless Halloumi Tacos

Halloumi tacos are incredibly easy, hence there are not many pointers!

It’s more about considering what you enjoy. I tend to go quite spicy, with a robust flavor, but you can use a milder spice blend.

I prefer my peppers and onions to be quite chunky and crisp, but you can opt for thin and tender.

Just keep in mind that while halloumi has a very high melting point, it softens and can adhere to the pan if left unattended for too long.

Serving Recommendations

You can pair halloumi tacos with sides like rice, corn, wedges and coleslaw, along with dips and sauces of your preference.

Salads and Dips

I serve my tacos with halloumi cheese alongside lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, sour cream, salsa, and guacamole.

Cheese

You might believe that halloumi cheese tacos already provide plenty of cheese, and you’d be correct. But who doesn’t enjoy more cheese?

I add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar. Mozzarella is also wonderful.

Shells, Wraps or Boats

This is entirely a matter of personal taste. The kids prefer boats, so I prepare them using that style.

Pineapple Salsa

A simple pineapple salsa is delicious and refreshing, and tacos topped with pineapple salsa are delightful.

Pineapple Salsa Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 fresh pineapple – peeled, cored, and finely chopped. Canned versions work as well.
• 1 red pepper – deseeded and finely diced.
• 1 small red onion – peeled and finely chopped.
• Juice of 1 lime.
• 1 fresh red chili – deseeded and finely diced.
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper – to taste.

Instructions:

1. Mix the finely diced pineapple, red pepper, and red onion in a large bowl. Stir until well combined.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixed ingredients.
3. Add the finely chopped red chili to the bowl. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
4. Season with a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure all flavors are combined.
5. Taste your salsa and modify the seasoning if needed. If you desire more heat, add additional chili or squeeze in more lime juice for a zesty kick.
6. Let the salsa rest for 10-15 minutes prior to serving to allow the flavors to blend harmoniously.

Mango Salsa

A mango salsa is an excellent topping or enhancement for your halloumi tacos.

Mango Salsa Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe mango – peeled, pitted, and finely chopped.
• ½ medium red onion – peeled and finely chopped.
• ½ cucumber, finely diced (optional for added crunch).
• Juice from 1 lime.
• 1 small red chili, deseeded and finely chopped (adjust to taste).
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, and cucumber (if including). Gently mix these components until evenly combined.
2. Add the finely chopped red chili to the bowl. The amount of chili can be adjusted based on your desired heat level.
3. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the ingredients combined in the bowl. The lime juice will not only infuse flavor but will also help marinate and enhance the vibrant flavors of the salsa.
4. Season with a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Be careful with the salt, as you want to elevate the flavors without overwhelming the gentle sweetness of the mango.
5. Stir everything thoroughly, making sure the ingredients are evenly incorporated throughout the salsa.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning if required. If you would like more heat, add more chili or lime juice for an extra punch.
7. Allow the salsa to rest for approximately 10 minutes to let the flavors harmonize before serving.

Variations

Prepare Grilled Halloumi Tacos

I enjoy my halloumi tender in tacos.

I grill or air fry it for dishes like wraps to achieve a crispy texture. However, for dishes like pasta bakes or tacos, I fry it to keep it soft.

It’s simply a matter of preference. If you appreciate crispy halloumi tacos, grill or air fry it prior to adding it to your peppers.

Incorporate Lime Juice

A squeeze of lime juice provides a fresh flavor that pairs wonderfully with tacos. You can also serve it with fresh lime wedges.

Include Beans

I frequently add kidney beans to my tacos, whether paired with chicken, lamb, beef, or halloumi. They contribute texture, color, and nutrition, making them excellent for expanding a meal. Any black beans, or even something like butter beans, are fantastic.

I’d substitute half of the halloumi with a can of kidney beans for healthier halloumi tacos.

Leftovers

Any remaining spice blend can be stored and utilized…

in tacos or pasta another instance.

You may also reheat remaining halloumi taco mixture in a skillet with a splash of water or in the microwave. The duration will vary based on the amount remaining.

Storage

Keep the remaining spice blend in a clean bowl or jar, covered, in a cupboard along with your other spices.

Take out leftover halloumi and vegetables from the skillet and let them cool in a clean container or bowl. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.

FAQ

Other Halloumi Cheese Recipes

If you adore halloumi as much as I do, you might also consider trying these halloumi dishes:

Recipe Card

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