Evexia Dairies
On this page, you'll discover details regarding Evexia Dairies and their Halloumi.
Additionally, you'll learn about preparing and properly storing Halloumi cheese.
What is Halloumi?
Halloumi is a popular cheese originating from the Mediterranean region, particularly Cyprus. It's known for its unique characteristics that make it suitable for grilling or frying without melting, which is why it's often referred to as a "grilling cheese."
Halloumi cheese is traditionally made from a mixture of sheep's, goat's and cow's milk but can also be made from only one type of milk. The cheese has a salty and tangy flavor, with a firm texture. It's often white in color and typically comes in rectangular blocks or slices.
One of the distinctive features of halloumi is its high melting point. This allows it to be grilled or fried without losing its shape, making it a popular choice for various dishes. When cooked, halloumi develops a crispy and golden-brown exterior while retaining its firm interior.
Halloumi is commonly used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. It can be eaten on its own as an appetizer or incorporated into salads, sandwiches, or wraps. Grilled or fried halloumi can also be served as a main dish, accompanied by vegetables, grains, or other components.
Due to its unique properties and delicious taste, halloumi has gained popularity beyond Cyprus and is now enjoyed in various parts of the world.
Who is Evexia?
EVEXIA originates from a Cyprus-based family-run Farm engaged in agriculture, livestock farming, and dairy production.
Being actively involved in the agricultural sector allows us to ensure that our animals are nourished with our own feed. This approach enables us to maintain control over the milk quality within our state-of-the-art livestock unit, established back in 2008.
Our deep appreciation for nature and animals, coupled with our commitment to providing wholesome and balanced nutrition, holds a significant role in our progress. We hold the twin values of upholding tradition and delivering top-notch products in high regard.
Our product range encompasses a variety of items, such as traditional sheep yogurt, halloumi cheese, anari cheese, sheep milk airani, and goat kefir.
how to use fresh halloumi
Fresh halloumi has a mild, slightly tangy flavor and a firm yet slightly springy texture. It's often enjoyed as a part of various dishes, salads, or even on its own as a snack.
Fresh halloumi can be sliced and included in salads for added texture and a touch of saltiness. It pairs well with vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers. It can also be included in wraps or sandwiches, adding a creamy and chewy element to your meal.
If you're looking for a simple and unadulterated experience, you can eat fresh halloumi slices as a snack. Some people also like to drizzle a bit of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs over the cheese to enhance its flavor.
Remember that while fresh halloumi is delicious on its own, it's also wonderful when cooked—grilled or pan-fried—because of its unique texture and ability to hold its shape without melting.
How to prepare halloumi
Whether you choose to grill or pan-fry your halloumi, it's delicious when served as an appetizer, in salads, sandwiches, or as a main dish accompanied by various sides. Experiment with flavors by adding herbs, spices, or other complementary ingredients.
Grilled Halloumi
Ingredients:
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Halloumi cheese
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Olive oil
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Lemon juice (optional)
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Fresh herbs (such as mint or oregano, optional)
Instructions:
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
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Cut the halloumi into slices of your desired thickness, usually around ¼ to ½ inch thick.
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Lightly brush both sides of the halloumi slices with olive oil to prevent sticking.
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Place the halloumi slices on the grill grates. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until grill marks appear and the cheese is heated through.
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If desired, drizzle a bit of lemon juice over the grilled halloumi for extra flavor.
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Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Pan-Fried Halloumi
Ingredients:
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Halloumi cheese
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Olive oil or butter
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Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
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Cut the halloumi into slices of your desired thickness, usually around ¼ to ½ inch thick.
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Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. You can lightly coat the pan with olive oil or butter.
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Once the pan is hot, add the halloumi slices in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
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Cook the halloumi for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese turns golden brown and develops a crispy crust.
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Once both sides are cooked, remove the halloumi from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
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Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the fried halloumi for added zest, if desired.
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Serve the pan-fried halloumi warm.
How to store Halloumi
After opening a package of halloumi, it's important to store the remaining cheese properly to maintain its freshness and flavor. Here's how you can store halloumi after opening:
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Wrap the halloumi tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper. This helps prevent air exposure and moisture loss.
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Place in an Airtight Container: If you prefer, you can transfer the halloumi to an airtight container. Make sure the container is clean and dry before placing the cheese inside. A container with a tight-fitting lid helps prevent the cheese from absorbing odors and flavors from the refrigerator.
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Use a Cheese Storage Bag: Cheese storage bags are designed to keep cheese fresh by allowing it to breathe while still protecting it from drying out. You can find these bags at kitchen supply stores or online.
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Store in the Refrigerator: Halloumi should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of around 35°F to 40°F (1.7°C to 4.4°C).
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Consume Promptly: Halloumi is best consumed within a few days after opening. While it may still be safe to eat for a bit longer, its texture and flavor might start to degrade over time.
Remember that halloumi is a cheese with a relatively high salt content, which helps preserve it to some extent. However, proper storage practices are still important to maintain its quality. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell, unusual texture, or mold growth, it's best to discard the cheese.
Always follow any specific storage instructions provided on the packaging of the halloumi you purchase.