Halloumi Substitutes: 12 Delicious Alternatives

It may appear tough to find a suitable substitute for halloumi cheese. But don’t worry, we’re here to assist you!

Because of its excellent heat resistance, halloumi cheese is unique. To put it another way, it melts much more slowly than other forms of cheese, making it ideal for both fried and baked recipes.

This type of cheese is very delicious on its own. So, if you don’t have halloumi cheese in your kitchen, you might think you can’t make the recipe that calls for it. This cheese is created from sheep’s milk and has an unripened texture that is solid but soft.

Let’s study each option in greater detail and learn more about them.

Best Halloumi Cheese Substitutes:

Many of your recipes will be saved using the halloumi cheese replacements listed below. Although some may have a different texture and flavour, you can use them without fear.

Queso panela

Because queso panela is made from cow’s milk, it can be used in place of halloumi. Although it has a softer texture than halloumi cheese, it has a similar melting point.

This alternative can be used in fried or baked foods, as well as in your favorite sandwiches. When you fry it, it might not develop a brownish crust. However, you will still get the gummy texture and exquisite flavour you desire.

Queso Para Freir

Queso para Freir es el primer halloumi substitute.

This is an excellent choice for all fried foods and grilled cheese recipes. This cheese will develop a golden crust when cooked, which will enhance the appearance of the final meal.

The flavour of Queso para Freir is comparable to that of halloumi, and the texture is similar. So, unless you’re a cheese specialist, you might not be able to identify the difference between these two types of cheese.

Kefalotyri

Kefalotyri cheese can be substituted for halloumi, but be aware that it is saltier than you might imagine. Depending on the origin and the recipe used, Kefalotyri cheese is prepared from goat’s milk or sheep’s milk.

This cheese has a hard and slightly flaky texture and a high melting point. It’s great for frying or grilling, and once it starts to cook, it takes on a creamier texture.

Because of its powerful flavour, you should only use a small amount of this cheese in your recipe, as it may overpower the other elements.

Saganaki

If you use Saganaki instead of halloumi cheese, you will not be disappointed. This delectable Greek cheese is noted for its delicious flavour when cooked.

It closely resembles the flavour of halloumi cheese. However, it will lose its brown crust and chewy texture when it is fried. Despite this, because Saganaki has a high melting point, it may be used in any recipe called halloumi cheese.

Paneer

Paneer is a popular sort of cheese that can be used in virtually any recipe in place of halloumi or even other varieties of cheese. Paneer is a fresh cheese prepared from curdled milk, lemon juice, and other seasonings. It has a delightful flavour.

This cheese’s creamy flavour pairs well with spicy dishes, such as those from Indian cuisine. This cheese will appear and taste extremely similar to halloumi when used in fried meals so that you can rely on it.

Queso Blanco

You’ll adore the smooth texture and moderately salty flavour of Queso Blanco as a halloumi cheese alternative. It’s a non-aged, versatile cheese that may be used in various dishes.

While this cheese will not melt while grilling or frying, it will not have the same appearance as halloumi. Because queso Blanco is white and retains that hue even when cooked, your finished meal will not be the same.

Tofu

Tofu is a wonderful vegan substitute for practically any type of cheese. There is no exception when it comes to halloumi. It has a texture comparable to halloumi cheese. However, there are considerable flavour distinctions.

Tofu may be flavorful when seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices of your choice. Tofu has a low salt content and works well with other ingredients in dishes.

Provolone

You can also replace provolone cheese for halloumi cheese, especially if you want a lower melting point substitution. It has a delicate flavour and melts well.

This cheese is perfect for sandwiches and toppings that require cheese since it melts into a gooey texture. It’s a popular ingredient in meals worldwide, and it goes well with both vegetables and meat.

Feta

Feta is a less expensive and more popular alternative to halloumi cheese.

It’s saltier than halloumi and a lot of other cheeses. It’ll also crumble much more easily. As a result, you may note that it lacks the texture and flavour of halloumi. It will, however, make your dish taste fantastic.

In some dishes, feta cheese may even be preferable to halloumi. It’s a fantastic addition to a variety of salads. However, because this cheese is salty enough on its own, keep the amount of extra salt to a minimum.

Cheese curds

Halloumi cheese can be substituted with cheese curds and other options.

You’ll have no trouble finding them and enjoying their gooey texture. This alternative isn’t overly salty, so you won’t wind up with a dish that’s saltier than usual.

You will not be sorry if you use cheese curds in any cuisine that calls for halloumi cheese or if you eat them plain as a snack.

Vlahotiri

Vlahotiri is another cheese created from sheep’s milk. In certain ways, it resembles halloumi cheese. Because the taste and texture are comparable, this substitute works well in various dishes.

This cheese has a lower salt content than others. As a result, you may need to season your food with more salt to achieve the desired flavour. It’s fantastic in salads and sandwiches, as well as grilled and fried foods.

Kasseri

Last but not least, kasseri cheese can be substituted for halloumi cheese.

Because this cheese is manufactured from sheep’s milk, the flavour will be comparable. Some recipes for this cheese also use goat’s milk, which changes the flavour slightly. Kasseri cheese can be used in hot and chilled meals, and the results are delicious.

When cooked, it has a chewy texture, but it has a firm texture when eaten plain.

What is a cheese that is similar to halloumi?

All of the alternatives listed above are very similar to halloumi cheese.

However, if you want to keep the flavour of halloumi, you can use most sheep’s milk cheeses instead.

If you prefer cheeses with a high melting point, you’ll have to do some study because many of them may crumble when heated to high temperatures.

Is Halloumi Cheese the Same as Mozzarella Cheese?

Mozzarella can be used in halloumi in cold meals such as salads, but it will taste very different when cooked. However, mozzarella is not a good substitute for halloumi since it has higher moisture content and a lower melting point.

Last Thoughts:

Although halloumi cheese is tough to come by, the replacements in this tutorial will undoubtedly save your dish.

Taste the alternative you’re thinking of using because some are saltier than others, requiring you to adjust the rest of the seasoning in your dish.