Crispy Hot Honey Halloumi Schnitzel
Crispy Hot Honey Halloumi Schnitzel is a deliciously crunchy, sweet, and spicy vegetarian dish featuring golden, crispy halloumi slices coated in a flavorful breadcrumb crust and finished with a vibrant hot honey glaze. Perfect for a main meal, snack, or in wraps, this recipe uses simple ingredients for an impressive, satisfying flavor experience.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Main Ingredients
- 250g halloumi cheese, sliced about 1/2 inch thick
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for gluten-free option)
- 2 large eggs, whisked with 1 tbsp water
- 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular; gluten-free if needed)
- 1/4 cup hot honey (a blend of honey and chili flakes/powder)
- 1 tsp chili flakes or powder (adjust to taste)
- Oil for frying (olive oil or vegetable oil)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Optional Variations
- Substitute halloumi with paneer or firm tofu for a different vegetarian option
- Replace chili flakes with smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to adjust heat
- Add 1 tsp dried oregano or thyme to breadcrumb mixture for herbal note
- Use infused honey such as lavender or orange blossom for aromatic twist
- Prepare the Halloumi: Cut the halloumi into slices about half an inch thick, ensuring all slices are uniform for even cooking. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture and achieve crispiness.
- Set Up Dredging Stations: Place the flour in a shallow bowl. In another bowl, whisk the eggs with a tablespoon of water to loosen the texture. Place breadcrumbs in a third shallow bowl. This three-step setup ensures a crispy coating.
- Coat the Halloumi: Dip each halloumi slice first into the flour, shaking off the excess. Then dunk into the egg mixture to bind the coating. Finally, press firmly into the breadcrumbs so each slice is evenly and thickly coated for maximum crunch.
- Fry Until Golden: Heat a generous amount of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding which can reduce crispiness.
- Drizzle Hot Honey: Transfer the fried schnitzels onto paper towels to drain excess oil. While warm, drizzle the hot honey evenly over each piece to deliver the perfect sweet and spicy finish.
- Serve with Lemon: Finish with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice over the schnitzels to brighten flavors and balance richness. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Pat dry the halloumi slices well to ensure a crispy crust.
- Use room temperature eggs for smoother coating adherence.
- Press breadcrumbs firmly onto the halloumi to help them stick and stay crispy after frying.
- Fry in batches to maintain consistent oil temperature and achieve even golden browning.
- Drizzle hot honey while schnitzels are warm so it soaks into the crust for better flavor integration.
- Reheat leftovers in oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness; avoid microwave reheating.
- For gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 schnitzel (approx. 70g)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: halloumi, schnitzel, hot honey, crispy, vegetarian, spicy, sweet, appetizer, snack