Cheese story
What is Halloumi?
A high-melting brined cheese from Cyprus, ideal for grilling.
Origin
Cyprus, Cyprus
Milk
sheep, goat and/or cow
Board role
Fresh / bright
Cheese profile
Country
Cyprus
Region
Cyprus
Milk type
sheep, goat and/or cow
Texture
semi-hard brined
Rind
none
Ageing
fresh to aged
Vegetarian
Check the rennet / producer
Milk treatment
varies
Flavour profile: salty, squeaky, milky, savoury
Origin, protection and character
Halloumi comes from Cyprus, especially Cyprus. Its character comes from the balance of milk, texture, rind, ageing and local serving traditions.
Protected status
PDO
Typical ageing
fresh to aged
How to serve Halloumi
grilling, frying, salads, wraps
Good food matches
watermelon
mint
lemon
white wine
Serving tip
Take it out of the fridge before serving so the texture softens and the flavour opens up. Softer cheeses usually need less time than hard aged cheeses.
Buying tip
Look for clean aroma, good texture and a style that matches the board: fresh and bright, soft and creamy, hard and nutty, blue and salty, or bold and washed-rind.
