As a mom, I’m continually searching for ways to make my family’s meals more nutritious and delicious. When I came across halloumi cheese, I knew it would be a great addition to our diet.
But unfortunately, Halloumi isn’t always easy to find in stores. So I researched and discovered that some great Halloumi substitutes can easily be found at your local grocery store. Keep reading for my top five recommendations!
What is Halloumi Cheese?
Halloumi cheese is a kind of cheese that originates from Cyprus.
It is a hard, white cheese with a high melting point, making it ideal for grilling or frying.
It is typically made from a mix of sheep’s and goat’s milk but can also be made from cow’s milk.
What does halloumi taste like?
Halloumi cheese has a slightly salty taste and a firm, chewy texture.
What is a substitute for halloumi cheese?
While substituting Halloumi, you have lots of options that have to get similar flavor and texture. These include Feta, Paneer, Tofu for vegans, and more.
1. FETA CHEESE- A Healthy Alternative to Halloumi
Feta cheese is another Greek cheese that originated from the Balkans region and is a white, crumbly cheese that is often used in salads or as a topping. It is made from sheep’s milk or a mixture of sheep’s and goat’s milk.
You can add feta to your salad, omelet, sandwich instead of Halloumi or use it as a pizza topping. The taste and texture of feta cheese are pretty similar to Halloumi, making it a great substitute in recipes.
2. PANEER- Grilled Halloumi Substitute
Paneer is one of my favorite Indian cottage cheeses; it has a firm semi-hard texture, a flavorful substitute for Halloumi.
Paneer is versatile cheese; you can add it to curry, grill it, and fry it. Paneer can be used in salads, wraps, sandwiches, and other dishes in place of Halloumi.
Paneer is a healthy alternative and similar to unsalted halloumi cheese. It is rich in protein and calcium and has a milder flavor than Halloumi.
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3. ANARI- Good Subs for Halloumi
Anari cheese is one of the most popular cheeses in Cyprus. It is made from sheep’s milk and has a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
Anari cheese is good at breakfast with some honey or in a salad.
4. COTTAGE CHEESE-Decent Replacement for Halloumi
Cottage cheese is a good stand-in for Halloumi because it has a similar texture and can be quickly grilled or fried. The taste is not as strong as Halloumi’s, but it will still provide a nice cheesy flavor to your dish.
5. KEFALOTYRI CHEESE Place of Halloumi
Kefalotyri cheese is another type of cheese that is popular in Cyprus. It is made from sheep’s or goat’s milk and has a salty, tangy flavor. Kefalotyri is a good substitute for Halloumi because it can be easily grilled or fried.
6. Try MANOURI Instead of Halloumi
If you’re looking for a cheese that has a similar texture to Halloumi, try manouri. This cheese is also made from sheep’s milk and has a firm yet creamy texture. It can be grilled or fried, making it a versatile option for recipes. Plus, it’s lower in fat than Halloumi, so it’s a healthier choice overall.
7. QUESO PANELA
Queso panela is another fantastic choice for Halloumi. This Mexican cheese has a similar taste and texture, although it is a bit more crumbly.
Queso panela is excellent for grilling, frying, or even eating raw. It pairs well with most dishes, so you can use it as a Halloumi substitute in any recipe.
Try queso panela if you’re peeking for a cheese that melts well. This cheese is similar to feta, but it has a milder flavor. Queso panela is perfect for dishes like quesadillas and nachos.
8. TOFU- Vegan Substitute for Halloumi
If you want a vegan option, try using firm tofu that has been seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Tofu is made of soybean, while Halloumi is made of sheep’s milk. Although they share some commonalities, such as being white and having a mild flavor, they are pretty different.
Tofu absorbs flavors well, so it is often used in stir-fries and other dishes with strong flavors.
9.Substitute QUESO BLANCO for Halloumi
Queso Blanco is a white, fresh cheese that originated in Spain and is made from whole milk. It has a mild flavor and a crumbly texture.
Queso Blanco is an excellent substitute for Halloumi because it has a similar taste and texture. Additionally, queso Blanco melts well, making it ideal for grilled dishes.
10. QUESO PARA FREIR
Queso para Freir is another fantastic alternative to Halloumi in fried dishes. This Mexican cheese is very similar to Halloumi in terms of texture and taste, making it a perfect substitution.
Queso para Freir has a milder flavor than Halloumi, so this is an excellent option if you are looking for a cheese with a little less bite. You can find this cheese in most Hispanic grocery stores.
11. SAGANAKI- Greek fried cheese Similar to Halloumi
Saganaki is a firm, salty cheese that originates from the island of Cyprus. It’s perfect for frying or grilling and has a similar taste and texture to Halloumi.
Saganaki has a slightly smoky flavor and is often flavored with lemon juice or oregano.
12. PROVOLONE
Provolone is another substitute for Halloumi. Provolone has a somewhat similar flavor to Halloumi, but it is not as strong.
Provolone is good at melting and has a mildly sweet flavor. It also has a lower melting point, so it may not be the best choice for grilling or frying.
13. GRAVIERA CHEESE
Graviera is a type of cheese often used as a substitute for Halloumi. It is similar in texture and flavor to Halloumi but has a slightly sweeter taste.
Graviera is a firm cheese that can be grilled or fried, making it an excellent option for dishes that call for Halloumi.
You can add graviera to salads, pasta dishes, pizzas, etc. It is also a great cheese to enjoy on its own.
Graviera is an excellent substitute for Halloumi and will add a delicious flavor to any dish. Try it the next time you’re looking for a great cheese to go with your meal.
14.LEIPAJUUSTO- Fried halloumi substitute
Leipäjuusto is also known in the United States as squeaky Finnish cheese made of goat and sheep’s milk.
Leipäjuusto is a Finnish cheese loaf made from a mixture of cow’s milk and sheep’s milk. It is very similar to Halloumi, so it is often used as a halloumi substitute.
Leipäjuusto has a firm texture and can be fried or grilled without melting. It has a mild, slightly salty taste that goes well with sweet or savory dishes.
If you are looking for a halloumi substitute, leipäjuusto is a good option. It can be found in most Finnish supermarkets and online stores.
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Wrap Up On Substitutes For Halloumi Cheese
Now You Know what a good substitute for halloumi cheese is? Many different types of cheese can be used as a substitute for Halloumi, depending on the dish you are preparing.
For example, feta cheese is a good option for salads or grilled dishes, while panner or tofu can be used in place of Halloumi in baked dishes.
Whatever type of cheese you choose, make sure it is good quality for the best results.
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FAQs Related to Halloumi & Its Alternatives
1. Can I use feta instead of Halloumi?
Yes, you can use feta instead of Halloumi in this recipe. Use feta in the same amount as Halloumi.
2. Why is Halloumi not vegetarian?
Halloumi is a cheese that originates from Cyprus. It is made from sheep and goat’s milk and sometimes includes cow’s milk. Because it contains animal-derived ingredients, Halloumi is not considered to be vegetarian.
3. Can you eat Halloumi raw?
Yes, you can eat Halloumi raw. Halloumi is a variety of cheese that originates from Cyprus. It is made from sheep’s milk and goat’s milk.
The cheese has a high melting point, suggesting it can be fried or grilled without melting.
Halloumi has a mild, slightly salty flavor. It has a firm texture with a somewhat chewy consistency when eaten raw.
4. Can you substitute mozzarella for Halloumi?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella for Halloumi. Both kinds of cheese have a similar taste and texture, so they will work well together in most recipes.
Mozzarella is a bit milder than Halloumi, so you may want to add more of it to your dish if you are looking for a more intense flavor.
Halloumi is also a bit saltier than mozzarella, so you may want to adjust the amount of salt you use in your recipe accordingly. Overall, either cheese will work well in most recipes that call for the other.