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Fakeaway Sticky Halloumi Popcorn
- Category: Popular |
Now, just a warning: these are addictive, and you may find yourself eating them like popcorn. But that is ok! The halloumi can be prepared in two ways – you can simply air-fry the chunks in oil then dip them into a sauce of your choice when they are nice and crispy, or you can coat them in some sweet chilli sauce towards the end of the cooking time, so they become a pinch of heaven.
SERVES
4
CALORIES
480
COOKING TIME
15 mins
DIFFICULTY
simple
How long does sticky halloumi popcorn take to cook in the air fryer?
Cook for 6–8 minutes at 180–200°C, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Can I make it with other cheeses?
Halloumi works best because it holds its shape when cooked. Other firm cheeses may melt too much in the air fryer.
Can I make this fakeaway healthier?
Use less oil or an oil spray, and serve with fresh veggies or a light dipping sauce to keep it lighter.
How do I get the sticky coating to stick?
Make sure the halloumi pieces are patted dry, then toss them in a sticky sauce or glaze immediately after air frying for the best coating.
Can I make it spicy or sweet?
Add a little chilli, smoked paprika, or honey to the sticky coating depending on your taste.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Cut the halloumi in advance, but air fry and add the sticky coating just before serving for the best texture.
Can I reheat leftover halloumi popcorn?
It’s best eaten fresh, but you can reheat for 2–3 minutes at 180°C in the air fryer. The coating may soften slightly.
What should I serve with sticky halloumi popcorn?
It’s great with dips like garlic mayo, sweet chilli, or a simple yoghurt sauce for a proper fakeaway vibe.
And for more healthy fakeaway recipes like this, you can check out:
Or, you can pick up a copy of my brand new book, Healthy Fakeaways on Amazon!
Method
Step 1
Season the halloumi with pepper. Add the beaten egg and the breadcrumbs, mixed with the paprika, to separate plates, then toss the halloumi chunks first into the egg, then into the breadcrumbs to evenly coat.
Step 2
Spray the coated halloumi really well with oil spray, then air-fry at 190°C for 12–14 minutes until golden and crispy.
Step 3
If using sweet chilli sauce, add that for the last 2 minutes of the cooking time, tossing the halloumi chunks to coat. Tuck in and enjoy!
Ingredients
550g reduced-fat halloumi cheese, cut into small chunks
1 egg, beaten
100g breadcrumbs (panko or fresh)
1 tsp paprika
low-calorie oil spray
4 tbsp sweet chilli sauce (optional)
pepper, to taste
