Halloumi Substitute

alternative for halloumi cheese

Halloumi cheese has become very popular over the last decade. This semi-hard sheep milk cheese is often served at parties or eaten as part of a Mediterranean meal. It has its origins in Cyprus and is useful in the kitchen for a variety of applications.

This type of cheese, which is well-known for its high melting point, can be pan-fried until the outside is crisp and the inside is gooey. Halloumi makes a great snack on skewers or in sandwiches and salads.

However, halloumi cheese is quite expensive. In addition, this Cypriot cheese takes a long time to prepare and requires special equipment.

Try these alternatives if you want to enjoy its unique flavor without breaking the bank.

Short Video On Cooking Halloumi That May Help You Decide On An Alternative

Here is a quick answer to the best Halloumi substitutes for 2024 including some vegan options.

Panner, Feta Cheese, Queso Type Cheeses, Provolone, Tofu (Vegan Halloumi alternative), Tempeh, and more

Below are more alternatives and are covered in a little more detail that will help you decide which is best for you and that will let you enjoy the taste of halloumi. We have put up a list of our favorite alternatives with similar characteristics, such as a high melting point and a subtle salty taste.

Paneer

Paneer, also known as Indian cottage cheese, is a fresh cheese similar to Halloumi. It’s particularly well-known in Indian cuisine for its flavor and versatility, and it is often used in curries. It is produced by curdling sour milk (usually cow or buffalo milk) with an acid component, and it’s great for frying since it has a high softening temperature.

Paneer cheese has a delicious taste and mild flavor since it is made entirely of evaporated milk and lemon juice. You can use paneer cheese in any recipe that requires creaminess while balancing the other tastes.

It does not melt when heated, and the same light, smooth flavor makes it a great substitute for Halloumi Cheese. We can grill or deep-fry it and use it in any dish that requires Halloumi Cheese.

Feta

Feta cheese is another option if you are looking for a Greek cheese alternative to Halloumi. Feta cheese is made from sheep’s milk and aged for several months. It has a strong tangy flavor that pairs well with grilled meats, vegetables, and dips.

Feta cheese is usually sold in blocks, but we have found that it works best when grated into small pieces. The texture is like that of feta cheese, so it is perfect for serving on top of pizza or pasta dishes.

If you don’t like the strong flavor of feta cheese, there are wide varieties available. Try using feta cheese in your next salad or sandwich.

Does feta cheese taste like halloumi?
Does feta cheese taste like halloumi? – Yes, they both have a salty taste – but the textures are different

Saganaki

Saganaki is a traditional Greek cheese that has been around for centuries. It’s made from goat’s milk and is aged for about six weeks. It is typically served warm, sliced thin, and drizzled with honey that melts quickly and has a strong, tangy flavor.

Saganaki is not as squeaky as Halloumi Cheese, and it won’t turn brown when cooked since to the higher moisture content. If you only want to compare flavors without getting a spongy mess and don’t want to go through the trouble of grating Halloumi cheese, this would be an excellent Halloumi cheese substitute.

Queso Panela

Queso panela, a soft cow’s milk cheese from Mexico known for its mild flavor and saltiness, is a semi-soft dairy product. It is wonderful in every way when fried, baked, used in sandwiches, or broken into quesadillas or tacos. Panela is a Mexican cheese that is similar to queso fresco. However, unlike queso fresco, it doesn’t need to be refrigerated. 

Unlike queso fresco which needs to be drained after being pressed, panela cheese is ready right away. It is versatile because it can be eaten alone or combined with fruits, veggies, and salads. It has a more excellent dampness content and does not brown as much when fried since it is somewhat wetter than Halloumi. It would be nice to garnish burgers or add small amounts to other Mexican dishes.

Is provolone like halloumi?
Is provolone like halloumi? Yes, the most similar provolone is the dolce variety, it is not quite as strong in taste.

Provolone Cheese

Provolone is a hard Italian cheese that is similar to mozzarella. It is made from pasteurized cow’s milk, in various sizes. Provolone is generally sold in slices or sticks.

Provolone is a perfect choice for making sandwiches or pizzas because it holds up well under heat. If you’re looking for a cheese alternative to mozzarella, provolone is a safe bet. The softening properties of this Italian cheese are legendary, so if you need to use it, keep in mind that it will not retain its form when heated. It will continue to soften even after removing it from the dish or the barbecue. If you are cautious with your cooking, you may use it as a halloumi alternative in sandwiches or other delicious dishes, regardless of whether you’re using the grill. 

Tofu

Tofu is one of the best and healthy cheese alternatives. Tofu is a soy product that is low in fat and high in protein. It is also highly versatile and can be used in any recipe that calls for cheese.

Tofu is great for those who are lactose intolerant, vegan, vegetarian or just trying to eat healthier. You can find tofu at most grocery stores. We’ve included some of our favorite brands below:

You may use any Tofu recipe to make the ideal Halloumi Cheese equivalent hearty and creamy. It will not be the same as if you used Halloumi Cheese, but you will surely get the most out of your dish by using it. It is ideal for pan-frying. Tossing tofu chunks in seasoned corn starch and frying over a high heat produces a wonderfully crisp, flavorful crust that gives way to silky tofu within.

Queso Para Freir

This cheese is commonly known as “Mexican Cheddar” or “Parmesan.” It is a mild, white cheese that is made from cow’s milk. Queso Para Freir is usually shredded into small pieces and added to dishes such as enchiladas, burritos, nachos, and fajitas.

Queso para Freir is similar to queso panela, however, the brown exterior layer is easier to obtain when grilled with this sort of cheese. It can resist high temperatures, so it will retain its form even after being fried and if you’re lucky, you may even get a nice charred covering. It is a great cheese to have on hand for adding flavor to soups and stews. You can also add it to casseroles and pasta dishes.

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