Homemade Halloumopita Recipe: A Taste of Cyprus
If you’re a fan of halloumi cheese, you’re going to love this recipe for traditional halloumopita, or “halloumopites”, as they’re known in Cyprus. These savory pastries are a perfect combination of flaky dough and the salty, chewy goodness of halloumi, with a touch of mint to round out the flavors.
Halloumopita are a beloved treat in Cyprus, enjoyed as a snack, breakfast, or even a light meal. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will bring a piece of the Mediterranean to your kitchen.
Ingredients for Halloumopita
For the Dough:
- 500g plain flour
- 1 tsp active yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 125ml olive oil
- 150ml lukewarm water
- 125ml milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Filling:
- 225g halloumi cheese, cut into small squares
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp dried mint
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these halloumopita warm, straight from the oven, for maximum flavor. Pair them with a simple green salad, some olives, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a complete meal. They’re also perfect for meal prep—store them in an airtight container for up to three days and reheat before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
The secret to these delicious pies is the balance of flavors and textures. The saltiness of halloumi is perfectly complemented by the sweetness of onions and the freshness of mint, while the sesame seeds add a delightful crunch. The olive oil-rich dough is soft, pliable, and full of flavor, making these pies a must-try for anyone who loves Mediterranean cuisine.
Tips for Perfect Halloumi Pies
- Use Fresh Halloumi: Look for high-quality halloumi with a firm texture and minimal additives for the best results.
- Rest the Dough: Allowing the dough to rise properly ensures a soft, fluffy texture.
- Experiment with Fillings: You can add extras like spinach, grated zucchini, or a pinch of chili flakes for a twist.
Final Thoughts
Halloumopita are a versatile and comforting dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re new to Mediterranean cooking or a seasoned foodie, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home.
For more traditional Greek and Cypriot recipes, follow GreekFoodAlchemist and let’s keep the Mediterranean spirit alive, one recipe at a time.
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Ingredients
- 225gr halloumi,cut in small squares
- 500gr plain flour
- 1 tsp active yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 125 ml cup olive oil
- 150ml lukewarm water
- 125ml milk
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp dried mint
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1
In a bowl, mix together the flour,salt and olive oil. Rub the two together using your fingers until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. In a separate bowl, mix some warm water, the yeast and sugar and let it stand for 10 minutes. The yeast is active when foam is created on top of the mixture. Add the yeast mixture in the flour, some more warm water, the milk and knead for 10 minutes. You are looking for a dough that's not yet or dry. Let the dough double in size, approximately 1 to 2 hours.
Step 2
When the dough is ready, pre heat the oven at 200°C. Roll the dough thinly into a rectangle. Spread the halloumi chunks, chopped onion and dried mint over the entire surface.
Step 3
Roll the dough into a cylinder shape, starting with the bottom edge, and then cut into 8 slices.
Step 4
Place the pies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and sprinkle the top with some sesame seeds. Bake for about 45 minutes or until they are nicely holden brown.
